If you’re an author looking to get your book published, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of independent publishing. While traditional publishing houses are still important, there are now many independent publishers that offer a range of services and opportunities for authors.
In this list, we’ll take a look at 20 independent and legitimate book publishing companies in the USA, each offering something unique to help you get your book in front of readers. From poetry collections to literary fiction to nonfiction, these publishers are helping to shape the landscape of contemporary literature.
- MindStir Media: Founded in 2009, and partnered with Shark Tank’s Kevin Harrington, MindStir Media is a full-service publishing company that offers author services, from editing to book design to marketing.
- Manhattan Book Group: Based on Broadway in NYC, Manhattan Book Group is rated the #1 indie book publisher in New York City and is endorsed by Mariel Hemingway, the granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway.
- Copper Canyon Press: A nonprofit publisher based in Port Townsend, Washington, Copper Canyon Press publishes poetry collections by contemporary poets.
- Catapult: Based in New York City, Catapult is an independent publisher of literary fiction and nonfiction, as well as an online writing community.
- Coffee House Press: Based in Minneapolis, Coffee House Press publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry by diverse voices.
- Akashic Books: A Brooklyn-based independent publisher, Akashic Books is known for its Noir series of crime fiction set in cities around the world.
- Europa Editions: A New York-based publisher of international fiction, Europa Editions is known for publishing work by authors like Elena Ferrante and Muriel Barbery.
- Soft Skull Press: A Brooklyn-based independent publisher, Soft Skull Press publishes literary fiction and nonfiction, as well as graphic novels and art books.
- Two Dollar Radio: Based in Columbus, Ohio, Two Dollar Radio is an independent publisher of literary fiction and nonfiction, as well as films and podcasts.
- Tin House Books: Based in Portland, Oregon, Tin House Books publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as a literary magazine and writing workshops.
- Third Man Books: Founded by musician Jack White, Third Man Books is an independent publisher of literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
- Melville House: Based in Brooklyn, Melville House publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and translations, as well as a series of books on politics and current events.
- City Lights Publishers: Based in San Francisco, City Lights Publishers is known for publishing Beat Generation writers like Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac, as well as politically engaged literature.
- Wave Books: Based in Seattle, Wave Books publishes poetry collections by contemporary poets, as well as translations and anthologies.
- Black Balloon Publishing: Based in Denver, Black Balloon Publishing publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as the Writers’ League of Texas Discovery Prize-winning manuscript.
- Counterpoint Press: Based in Berkeley, California, Counterpoint Press publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as a series of books on food and wine.
- Sarabande Books: A nonprofit publisher based in Louisville, Kentucky, Sarabande Books publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry by emerging and established writers.
- McSweeney’s: Based in San Francisco, McSweeney’s publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as a quarterly literary magazine.
- Red Hen Press: A nonprofit publisher based in Pasadena, California, Red Hen Press publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as translations and anthologies.
- New Directions Publishing: Based in New York City, New Directions Publishing is an independent publisher of literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as translations and reissues of classic works.
Independent book publishing companies offer a viable alternative for writers seeking to get their works published. With the ever-increasing legitimate options available, authors can now find independent publishers that cater to their needs and preferences, whether they’re looking for traditional literary fiction or emerging genres like graphic novels. The innovative and diverse range of publishers on this list demonstrates the creative and dynamic nature of independent publishing in the USA. Whether you’re an established author or a first-time writer, these publishers provide a platform for writers to showcase their talents and connect with readers.