33 Nonfiction Publishers to Know in 2024
Listed below is a curated selection of nonfiction publishers, ranging from well-known book publishers to small publishing companies in NYC.
This diverse list caters to authors of all levels, from experienced writers to first-time authors seeking opportunities to connect with book publishing companies.
Whether you're a seasoned author or venturing into publishing for the first time, these nonfiction publishers offer a platform to share your ideas and stories with the world.
1. DK
Established in London in 1974, DK stands as a global powerhouse in illustrated reference publishing, operating under the esteemed umbrella of Penguin Random House.
Specializing in highly visual photographic nonfiction tailored for both adults and children, DK holds a prominent position in the industry.
DK is committed to reaching diverse audiences, and its extensive range of nonfiction books caters to readers in over 100 countries and 63 languages. With offices in the United Kingdom, India, the United States, Germany, China, Canada, Spain, and Australia, DK is dedicated to publishing a wide range of interests in the niche market of illustrated reference literature.
2. Verso Books
Verso Books stands as the largest independent publisher in the English-speaking world, focusing on a range of nonfiction books with a radical edge.
This publishing house releases one hundred books annually, showcasing its commitment to diverse and impactful literature.
Submissions are accepted, proposals should be limited to fifteen pages. For details follow the submission guidelines in this link.
3. Macmillan
Macmillan Publishers stands out as a leading book publisher, serving as a nurturing ground for some of the globe's most treasured authors and creators.
The company's imprints are committed to offering a wide range of nonfiction alongside a diverse array of genres and formats, catering to all types of readers — from adult nonfiction and fiction enthusiasts to young readers captivated by innovative children's books.
4. Text Publishing
Text Publishing, a Melbourne-based independent publishing company, specializes in both literary and commercial fiction and nonfiction books.
This small publishing entity has been honored with the ABIA Small Publisher of the Year award three times and was named Leading Edge Books Small Publisher of the Year in 2018 and 2019.
Text Publishing is dedicated to producing books that significantly impact readers' lives, advocating for the transformative power of reading.
Text Publishing is known to accept unsolicited submissions, opening doors for authors seeking to make their mark in the literary world through an independent platform.
5. Hachette Book Group
Hachette Book Group is a prominent player in the publishing industry, renowned for its wide array of literary offerings.
As a leading publishing company, Hachette has established itself through its dedication to bringing to the market a diverse range of titles, from bestselling fiction and non-fiction to critical works that cater to a wide audience.
This publisher stands out for its dynamic publishing strategies and its ability to adapt to changing market trends, ensuring that readers across the globe have access to compelling and thought-provoking content.
6. Bonnier Books
Bonnier Books is recognized as one of the leading nonfiction publishers among independent publishing companies.
With a steadfast commitment to enriching the literary landscape, this independent publisher has carved out a niche for itself by offering a diverse range of nonfiction books that cater to a myriad of interests and disciplines.
7. Quarto
Quarto Books stands out among well-known book publishers for its specialized focus on a wide range of nonfiction topics, which is enjoyed by a niche market with precision and expertise.
They have established themselves as a key player in the industry by offering titles from art, history, science, and lifestyle. With a keen eye for what engages readers and a commitment to quality, Quarto Books has built a reputation for delivering informative and beautifully designed books that meet its audience's specific interests and needs.
Quartop accepts unsolicited submissions.
8. Paragon House
Paragon House is on the list of book publishers for first-time authors, focusing on producing books with cultural and intellectual significance.
The publisher specializes in various topics, including general philosophy, ethics, contemporary values, world religion, social thought, women's studies, social sciences, political philosophy, economics, integral studies, world peace, and globalization.
Paragon House accepts unsolicited submissions in the fields of history, philosophy, culture, governance, economics, and society.
9. Autumn House Press
Autumn House Press is a nonprofit publisher committed to publishing and promoting poetry and fine literature. Each year, It releases 7-8 titles in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction.
The publisher opens its doors to manuscripts through its annual contests in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in collaboration with the Center for African American Poetry and Poetics and the West Chester University Poetry Center.
For the nonfiction contest of 2024, a team from Autumn House Press, alongside a group of select external readers, will undertake the role of preliminary judges, with Clifford Thompson serving as the final adjudicator. The contest victor will see their full-length manuscript published and be awarded a $2,500 prize. The submission window is set from March 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024, with the finalists and the winner to be disclosed by August 1, 2024.
10. Quirk Books
Quirk Books, established in 2002, is among the well-known book publishers that specialize in producing entertaining, engaging, and distinctive books across various genres for both adults and children.
Its catalog features a number of standout titles, such as Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, Grady Hendrix’s horror novels My Best Friend’s Exorcism and The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires, Pride & Prejudice & Zombies, The Baby Owner’s Manual, and the Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook series.
Based in Philadelphia, Quirk Books' publications are distributed globally by Penguin Random House, ensuring their [nonfiction] books are accessible to readers everywhere books are sold.
11. Bloomsbury Publishing
Established in 1986, Bloomsbury Publishing stands as a premier independent publishing house, celebrated for its authors, recipients of the Nobel, Pulitzer, and Booker Prizes. It is also the original publisher and guardian of the Harry Potter series.
Within its Academic division, Bloomsbury not only publishes under its own name but also under several esteemed and historic imprints.
12. Yale University Press
Yale University Press is dedicated to publishing a wide range of serious works that enhance global comprehension of human affairs, aligning with Yale University's core mission of discovering and disseminating light and truth.
Its range of nonfiction publications and other materials significantly contributes to scholarly research, fosters interdisciplinary exploration, energizes public discourse, and provides education both in and out of the classroom, thereby enriching cultural life.
Submissions are welcome, following the submission guidelines.
13. Csiro Publishing
CSIRO Publishing is Australia's premier science publisher, offering an extensive portfolio of books, journals, and magazines that underscore the importance of scientific endeavors. Their publications are designed to preserve and disseminate scientific knowledge to benefit future generations.
Their mission is to amplify the influence of science by sharing research findings, empowering policymakers, and enhancing the lives of readers worldwide.
14. Thames & Hudson
Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, Thames & Hudson has announced a special publishing program, along with international promotions, events, and the introduction of a new Book Design Prize.
Founded by Walter and Eva Neurath, Thames & Hudson had a distinctive mission: to democratize art and scholarship through pioneering and audaciously independent publishing, often venturing ahead of contemporary trends.
Thames & Hudson is renowned for producing exquisitely designed books in partnership with leading artists, writers, museums, cultural institutions, fashion houses, and interior designers.
Proposals are welcome based on the submission guidelines.
15. The Feminist Press
The Feminist Press is dedicated to publishing books that fuel movements and catalyze social change, serving a niche market with a focus on feminist literature.
As a leading force in contemporary feminist discourse on equality and gender identity, The Feminist Press publishes a range of voices, from Anita Hill to Justin Vivian Bond and Ann Jones, catering to a niche market interested in progressive and transformative feminist literature.
16. TED Books
TED Books is an innovative publishing branch of the globally renowned TED platform, known for its inspiring talks on a wide range of topics.
These books are concise yet powerful, designed to explore big ideas in a compact format. Launched to complement the rich, thought-provoking content of TED Talks, TED Books delve deeper into the subjects presented on stage, allowing readers to engage with groundbreaking ideas and insights in a more detailed and nuanced manner.
In September 2014, TED Books expanded its reach by introducing hardcover editions, marking a significant evolution from its initial e-book format.
17. The Experiment
The Experiment, established in 2008, is an independent publishing house dedicated to a broad spectrum of nonfiction books. Its catalog features titles that range from highly practical guides to purely narrative works, with some titles creatively blending practical advice with engaging storytelling.
Its name reflects the publisher's commitment to exploring new ideas, mirroring the curiosity and exploration inherent in scientific experiments. Their publications aim to enlighten, empower, and entertain readers by introducing new or reimagined ideas, stories, and practices.
18. MIT Press
Founded in 1962, the MIT Press is one of the world's most prominent and extensive university presses. It is renowned for publishing books and journals that address the confluence of science, technology, art, social science, and design.
To submit a proposal via email, consult with the relevant editor since submission requirements and review schedules may vary among editors. These guidelines provide general recommendations for preparing publication proposals.
19. Dover Publications
Dover Publications is committed to delivering an unparalleled reading experience, highlighted by its editions rich in illustrations and its intriguing collection of historical novelties.
20. Unnamed Press
Unnamed Press is a prominent independent publisher specializing in fiction and nonfiction. Its publications are known for representing a wide array of diverse voices that challenge traditional viewpoints and resonate with a vast general audience through exciting, radical, and urgent narratives.
Through its commitment to both fiction and nonfiction, Unnamed Press actively shapes pop culture and literary discourse.
Unsolicited submissions are accepted.
21. Chicago Review Press
Founded in 1973, Chicago Review Press is an independent publisher that specializes in releasing titles of enduring significance and pioneering nonfiction books that transcend fleeting trends.
As book publishers, they dedicate themselves to amplifying voices from marginalized communities, enriching their range of nonfiction with diverse perspectives.
22. Addicus Books
Established in 1994 and based in Omaha, Nebraska, Addicus Books, Inc. is dedicated to publishing outstanding nonfiction books focused on consumer health titles.
Beyond enhancing its collection of health books, Addicus Books has broadened its publishing scope to include other nonfiction genres.
Addicus Books is actively seeking new titles in consumer health, self-help, psychology, business, economics, investing, and regionally focused subjects.
Note that authors without a literary agent can contact Addicus Books directly.
23. Lake Isle Press
Lake Isle Press specializes in producing pioneering cookbooks for those who love to explore new culinary horizons. The publisher partners with forward-thinking chefs and food writers to bring fresh flavors and innovative cooking methods into the kitchens of home cooks. Their distinctive cookbooks feature a variety of authentic recipes, ingredients, and cuisines of renowned culinary experts worldwide.
24. Future Tense Books
Founded in 1990, Future Tense Books has established itself as a small, independent publishing company with a knack for identifying niche markets.
It has further evolved from producing scrappy xeroxed chapbooks—created before the digital ease of a computer—to crafting beautifully designed paperbacks, limited edition hardcovers, the pocket-sized Scout Books series, and eBooks. Future Tense Books is celebrated for its role in launching many groundbreaking debuts and for becoming a home to small press classics.
25. New Directions
New Directions was established in 1936 by James Laughlin, who published the inaugural edition of the New Directions anthologies.
26. Murdoch Books
Originally founded by Murdoch Magazines in the early 1990s, Murdoch Books became a part of Allen & Unwin, Australia's largest independent publisher, in 2012.
Murdoch is known for publishing visually stunning and commercially appealing books authored by innovative, bold voices offering unique perspectives. Their portfolio of bestsellers and award-winning titles covers four main categories: food, home, gift, and life.
27. Spiegel & Grau
Spiegel & Grau recognize that a book can transition into film or television, just as a podcast may evolve into a book. While books are at the core of their business, Spiegel & Grau expands the voices of writers and creators through strategic collaborations.
28. C&R Press
C&R Press is an independent publisher that champions innovative and quality literature across diverse genres. Established to support bold authors and bring their unique voices to a global audience, C&R Press focuses on publishing a mix of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
29. Loyola Press
Founded in 1912 by Father William P. Lyons SJ, Loyola Press originated as a nonprofit Catholic publishing ministry under the auspices of the Midwest Province of the Society of Jesus. Subsequently, Father Lyons expanded the Press's portfolio to include collegiate textbooks.
This strategic diversification facilitated a significant expansion in both the organization's size and its operational scope. Presently, Loyola Press has extended its services to over 40 million individuals.
30. Titan Books
Titan Books specializes in beautifully produced graphic novels, engaging fiction, and authoritative art and pop culture books. Their catalog includes collaborations with some of the industry's most talented and creative authors, artists, and licensors, ensuring that readers always have access to innovative and captivating content.
Proposals are welcomed based on the submission guidelines.
31. Srishti Publishers
Srishti Publishers has a vision of crafting a unique selection of books. They are committed to fostering emerging writers. This publisher can be added to the list of book publishers for first-time authors.
Submissions are welcomed for general nonfiction books in English, not for textbooks, scientific or technical books.
32. Benbella Books
Established in 2001, BenBella Books is a boutique publishing house for authors seeking personalized attention, a collaborative approach, adaptability, and innovative marketing strategies. Distribution is handled by Penguin Random House.
Benbella Books actively searches for strong nonfiction manuscripts. Submission guidelines here.
33. Stairway Press
Stairway Press is dedicated to publishing and marketing literary works across a range of genres, such as science, science fiction, short stories, political essays, literary thrillers, and adventures.
Publishdrive, the One-Click Solution
Authors have the option to individually research, contact, and follow up with each of these nonfiction publishers (and more), a process that demands significant time and effort.
Alternatively, authors can choose to publish wide with PublishDrive, using its network of book partners. This approach not only simplifies the publishing process by providing access to a broad array of distributors through a single platform but also maximizes the potential reach and impact of their work.
Why PublishDrive?
PublishDrive works based on a flat fee subscription model, allowing authors and publishers full control over their revenue.
With a wide array of stores, collaborations, tools, and features, you access an all-encompassing book network designed to grow your business and open new markets, reaching hard-to-get audiences.
Besides the seamless process of publishing PublishDrive offers, you’ll benefit from:
- Multi-format distribution
- Book distribution to 20+ channels, 400+ stores, and thousands of digital libraries worldwide
- Built-in marketing and promotional tools to help with your books’ visibility
- In-store featuring: with PublishDrive’s featuring option, you can submit your books for a chance to be featured in Written Word Media's websites, and other top retailers, like Apple Books and more
- Services like royalty splitting
- POD cover template generator
- POD converter
Conclusion
With a vast range of nonfiction topics waiting to be explored and shared with eager readers, the path to publishing your nonfiction book can seem overwhelming.
However, the journey to becoming a published author doesn't have to be laden with hurdles. By choosing to self-publish, you can take control of your publishing journey, ensuring your work finds its place among the diverse spectrum of nonfiction publishers.
Whether your book delves into history, science, personal development, or any other nonfiction genre, self-publishing offers you the flexibility and autonomy to bring your vision to life on your terms.