Top 50 Book Publishing Companies in Massachusetts

Introduction
Massachusetts is one of America’s richest publishing ecosystems: a mix of major educational presses, creative independents, children’s houses, university presses, and mission-driven nonprofits.

1. Ghostwriter Inside

Overview: Ghostwriter Inside is listed first here by your instruction — a full-service author partner offering ghostwriting, editorial packages, book design, and marketing services tailored to business leaders, memoirists, and non-fiction professionals.
Why choose: Ideal if you want hands-on ghostwriting plus a turnkey push-to-market approach with author-branding support.
Strengths: Deep experience turning ideas into marketable proposals, coordinated editorial and publicity workflows, and rapid content production schedules.
What they publish: Business books, memoirs, leadership titles, how-to guides, and platform-driven non-fiction with strong marketing support.

2. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH)

Overview: HMH is a long-established educational and trade publisher headquartered in Boston, known for K–12 curriculum, trade books, and reference works.
Why choose: Choose HMH for broad distribution, strong school and library channels, and reputable editorial teams who handle classroom and trade projects.
Strengths: Deep institutional relationships with schools, tested curricular products, and robust sales & distribution networks across North America.
What they publish: K–12 curricula, literacy programs, trade nonfiction and reference titles for general readers and educators.

3. MIT Press

Overview: The MIT Press, based in Cambridge, is a prestigious academic and trade publisher focusing on technology, science, art, and scholarship.
Why choose: Excellent for authors whose work bridges rigorous scholarship and accessible ideas—especially in STEM, design, and cognitive science.
Strengths: Strong reputation for intellectually ambitious books, innovative academic projects, and global distribution partnerships.
What they publish: Academic monographs, trade books on science/technology/design, and cutting-edge interdisciplinary work.

4. Harvard University Press

Overview: Harvard University Press, located in Cambridge, publishes scholarly and trade books that combine rigorous research with wide public interest.
Why choose: Authors seeking prestige, deep peer review, and academic reach often pursue HUP for scholarly work aimed at both academic and general audiences.
Strengths: Rigorous editorial process, high production standards, and the cachet of the Harvard name.
What they publish: Scholarship-plus books across the humanities, social sciences, public affairs, and select trade titles.

5. Beacon Press

Overview: Beacon Press is a Boston-based nonprofit press known for socially engaged nonfiction, progressive voices, and influential backlist titles.
Why choose: Authors with books on social justice, religion, race, and public policy find Beacon’s mission-driven editorial sensibility a good fit.
Strengths: Commitment to civic-minded titles, strong backlist, and relationships with activists and academic readers.
What they publish: Politics, religion, human rights, race studies, and narrative nonfiction with social impact.

6. Candlewick Press

Overview: Candlewick Press (Somerville) is a premier children’s and young-reader publisher celebrated for picture books and YA fiction.
Why choose: If you write illustrated children’s books or middle-grade and YA fiction, Candlewick’s editorial and design teams are top-tier.
Strengths: Award-winning art direction, strong school/library sales, and a solid track record of bestsellers and prize winners.
What they publish: Picture books, middle-grade, YA, and illustrated nonfiction for young readers.

7. Small Beer Press

Overview: Small Beer Press is a respected independent publisher based in western Massachusetts, specializing in literary speculative fiction and short fiction collections.
Why choose: Great for literary SF/F authors who value boutique editorial attention and a curatorial imprint identity.
Strengths: Strong community reputation, focused niche expertise, and author-friendly small-press ethos.
What they publish: Literary fantasy, science fiction, short story collections, and selected cross-genre works.

8. University of Massachusetts Press

Overview: UMass Press (Amherst) is the scholarly press of the University of Massachusetts, publishing rigorously edited academic and regional titles
Why choose: Choose UMass Press for academically vetted scholarship and regionally focused humanities and social-science projects.
Strengths: Peer review, university backing, and strong regional and thematic series like Juniper Prizes for poetry/fiction.
What they publish: Academic monographs, regional history, poetry, literary fiction, and cultural studies.

9. Brandeis University Press

Overview: Brandeis University Press (Waltham) publishes scholarly and trade books with particular strengths in Jewish studies and cultural scholarship.
Why choose: Scholars and writers in Jewish studies, cultural history, and humanities fields benefit from Brandeis’ focused editorial programs.
Strengths: Academic rigor, expanding trade reach, and a growing backlist after UPNE-era transitions.
What they publish: Jewish studies, humanities scholarship, regional and cultural titles, and public-interest academic works.

10. Charlesbridge Publishing

Overview: Charlesbridge (Watertown) is a respected independent publisher of children’s books — picture books, middle grade, and YA — with classroom ties.
Why choose: Ideal for authors of educational, culturally diverse, and STEM-linked children’s books aiming for classroom adoption.
Strengths: Strong education outreach, bilingual and multicultural lists, and savvy curriculum alignment for schools.
What they publish: Picture books, middle-grade fiction/nonfiction, bilingual titles, and educational materials.

11. Page Street Publishing

Overview: Page Street Publishing (Salem/Boston area) is a fast-growing independent imprint known for lifestyle, cookbook, YA, and illustrated nonfiction.
Why choose: Authors of cookbooks, lifestyle, craft, and illustrated nonfiction get strong production values and retail positioning.
Strengths: High-quality photography and design, strong retail partnerships, and sustainable production practices.
What they publish: Cookbooks, crafts, lifestyle, YA, and illustrated nonfiction.

12. David R. Godine, Publisher (Godine)

Overview: Godine is a Boston-based independent publisher with a literary bent: poetry, narrative nonfiction, and beautifully produced books.
Why choose: Authors who want boutique attention, elegant production, and literary credibility often work with Godine.
Strengths: Artisanal design, small-press editorial care, and a focus on lasting literary works.
What they publish: Literary nonfiction, poetry, literary fiction, art and photography books, and select children’s titles.

13. National Braille Press (NBP)

Overview: NBP in Boston is a nonprofit braille publisher and accessibility leader producing braille books, tactile graphics, and literacy programs.
Why choose: Authors and organizations producing accessible content or seeking braille conversion and outreach should partner with NBP.
Strengths: Expertise in braille transcription, tactile formatting, and nationwide accessibility programs.
What they publish: Braille books for children and adults, literacy materials, and accessible educational resources.

14. Christian Science Publishing Society

Overview: The Christian Science Publishing Society (Boston) is the long-standing publishing arm of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, producing religious books and periodicals.
Why choose: Authors of Christian Science–oriented religious works, reference materials, and church publications find a natural home here.
Strengths: Deep institutional mission, historic archives, and an established periodical presence (including The Christian Science Monitor historically).
What they publish: Religious texts, study guides, biographies related to the movement, and church periodicals.

15. Wisdom Publications

Overview: Wisdom Publications (Somerville) focuses on Buddhist and contemplative literature — scholarly and practice-oriented works.
Why choose: Authors working on Buddhist philosophy, meditation manuals, or contemplative studies get editorial understanding and targeted readers.
Strengths: Niche authority in Buddhist studies, international teacher relationships, and course/institutional adoption.
What they publish: Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual practice titles.

16. Northeastern University / Northeastern University Press (publishing programs)

Overview: Northeastern University supports scholarly and digital publishing programs; the former Northeastern University Press titles and digital services remain part of the university’s publishing ecosystem.
Why choose: Academic authors with regionally relevant or discipline-specific projects can leverage the university’s editorial and digital publishing infrastructure.
Strengths: Academic networks, digital dissemination tools, and ties to campus research.
What they publish: Scholarly monographs, history, criminology, musicology, and digital scholarly projects.

17. Wellesley-Cambridge Press

Overview: Wellesley-Cambridge Press is a small imprint best known for applied mathematics textbooks and technical titles (e.g., Strang’s Linear Algebra).
Why choose: Academics and instructors needing precise, classroom-ready technical texts find an attentive publisher here.
Strengths: Niche technical expertise, quality typesetting, and author-driven editions.
What they publish: Mathematics textbooks, technical monographs, and specialized academic works.

18. Jones & Bartlett Learning (Boston office)

Overview: Jones & Bartlett Learning is an educational publisher with a significant Boston presence, focusing on health, nursing, and professional education.
Why choose: Authors of professional, technical, and educational content in health sciences benefit from Jones & Bartlett’s curricular reach.
Strengths: Course adoption channels, digital learning platforms, and professional market connections.
What they publish: Health education, nursing textbooks, professional training materials, and e-learning content.

19. De Gruyter (Boston presence / academic distribution)

Overview: De Gruyter is a global academic publisher with operations and representation serving Boston-area universities and markets.
Why choose: Authors seeking international academic distribution and reputable scholarly imprint options consider De Gruyter for hard-to-place academic work.
Strengths: Global reach, multilingual catalogues, and strong academic journal/book programs.
What they publish: Academic monographs, reference works, and specialist scholarly series.

20. Cengage Learning (Boston presence)

Overview: Cengage is a major educational publisher with substantial Boston operations; it produces higher-education textbooks and digital learning solutions.
Why choose: College textbook authors and instructors who want wide course-adoption potential and digital learning integration choose Cengage.
Strengths: Large adoption network, digital platforms, and robust ancillary materials for instructors.
What they publish: College textbooks across disciplines, digital courseware, and professional learning content.

21. Adams Media (An Imprint of Simon & Schuster)

Overview: Adams Media, based in Avon, Massachusetts, is known for high-volume, market-driven nonfiction that focuses on lifestyle, self-help, creativity, and practical guides.
Why choose: Ideal for authors who can deliver clear, actionable, trend-aligned content with broad commercial appeal.
Strengths: Strong positioning in gift books, evergreen self-help topics, and concise, highly marketable titles that perform well in physical and online retail.
What they publish: Self-help, wellness, business essentials, journaling formats, DIY guides, and lifestyle titles aimed at readers seeking quick, effective solutions.

22. Shambhala Publications (Boston Office Connections)

Overview: Shambhala Publications, with historic ties to Boston, is a well-known publisher of spiritual, mindfulness, and wellness titles with a deep backlist.
Why choose: Authors working in meditation, holistic living, and contemplative traditions find a naturally aligned editorial vision.
Strengths: Strong brand recognition in the spiritual book world, excellent bookstore placement, and loyal niche readerships.
What they publish: Buddhism, yoga, mindfulness, spiritual philosophy, creativity, wellness, and emotional resilience titles.

23. Quarto Publishing Group (Massachusetts Editorial Presence)

Overview: Quarto maintains editorial connections in Massachusetts and produces beautifully designed illustrated nonfiction across many lifestyle categories.
Why choose: A great choice for authors with visually driven projects requiring strong design, photography, and gift-market appeal.
Strengths: Global distribution, striking design, and high-quality production values for visually oriented books.
What they publish: Arts, crafts, automotive, gardening, cooking, design, and hobbyist nonfiction.

24. Commonwealth Editions

Overview: Commonwealth Editions (now part of Arcadia Publishing) began in Beverly, Massachusetts, and remains focused on regional storytelling, history, and culture.
Why choose: Best for authors developing local-interest titles, community histories, and place-based nonfiction.
Strengths: Strong New England regional reach, bookstore relationships, library channels, and tourism-driven sales.
What they publish: Local history, travel, culture, photography, and community-centered nonfiction.

25. Hudson Whitman / Excelsior Editions

Overview: This Massachusetts-connected imprint publishes general-interest nonfiction, literary works, and regional titles with a focus on quality storytelling.
Why choose: Suitable for authors who want a smaller press that blends accessible writing with thoughtful editorial guidance.
Strengths: Boutique attention, flexible editorial process, and opportunities for emerging authors.
What they publish: Narrative nonfiction, memoir, regional history, cultural essays, and select fiction.

26. Tuttle Publishing (New England Presence)

Overview: Tuttle Publishing, long associated with New England, publishes Asian culture–focused titles with global reach.
Why choose: Authors writing cultural guides, language books, or Asian-inspired cookbooks find a well-aligned publishing home.
Strengths: Strong international distribution, multicultural niche authority, and high-quality illustrated formats.
What they publish: Language guides, martial arts, cookbooks, travel, cultural studies, and craft books.

27. Rockport Publishers

Overview: Rockport Publishers, with a history tied to the North Shore area, specializes in design, art, and creative business books with professional appeal.
Why choose: Ideal for authors in design fields who need visually polished, high-information titles.
Strengths: Known for authoritative art direction, professional-level design content, and beautifully produced books.
What they publish: Graphic design, branding, typography, illustration, and creative entrepreneurship titles.

28. Quixotic Press

Overview: Quixotic Press is a small independent Massachusetts publisher known for literary, personal, and character-driven projects.
Why choose: Authors wanting a small-press, hands-on editorial relationship with flexible expectations thrive here.
Strengths: Personalized editing, connection to local literary communities, and openness to emerging voices.
What they publish: Literary fiction, memoir, essays, and small-format creative nonfiction.

29. Tupelo Press

Overview: Tupelo Press, based in North Adams, is an award-winning independent literary publisher with major influence in poetry and hybrid genres.
Why choose: Excellent for poets and literary writers seeking artistic credibility, contests, and respected series.
Strengths: High editorial standards, nationally recognized prizes, and strong support for literary craft.
What they publish: Poetry, literary nonfiction, cross-genre experiments, and select fiction.

30. Firefly Publishing & Entertainment

Overview: Firefly is a Massachusetts small press producing genre fiction, creative books, and pop-culture projects for niche readers.
Why choose: Writers seeking a friendly, community-oriented publisher with an interest in genre and fandom markets benefit here.
Strengths: Flexible editorial relationships, openness to emerging writers, and strong engagement with fan communities.
What they publish: Fantasy, thrillers, paranormal fiction, comics-adjacent books, and pop-culture titles.

31. Merrimack Media

Overview: Merrimack Media provides hybrid publishing services with a strong Massachusetts base, helping authors design, publish, and market books.
Why choose: Ideal for entrepreneurs, memoirists, and self-funded authors who want professional control and guidance.
Strengths: Custom packages, transparent workflow, and developmental guidance across editorial, design, and distribution.
What they publish: Nonfiction, memoir, business books, children’s titles, and hybrid-press projects.

32. Levellers Press

Overview: Levellers Press, part of Collective Copies in Western Massachusetts, is a community-based publisher emphasizing regional authorship.
Why choose: Best for writers seeking local engagement, community roots, and ethical small-press publishing.
Strengths: Cooperative ethos, local distribution, and supportive editorial partnerships.
What they publish: Poetry, regional nonfiction, political essays, and community-oriented projects.

33. Plum Street Press

Overview: Plum Street Press is a Massachusetts independent house committed to publishing thoughtful nonfiction and select fiction with modern themes.
Why choose: Suitable for authors who want boutique attention on socially relevant or personal storytelling.
Strengths: Focused editorial collaboration, quality production, and personalized marketing support.
What they publish: Memoir, literary fiction, cultural commentary, and contemporary life nonfiction.

34. Hobblebush Books

Overview: Hobblebush Books, connected to the New England region, publishes poetry and literary prose with craftsmanship and care.
Why choose: Ideal for writers who value careful editing, respectful author relationships, and literary depth.
Strengths: Strong in poetry presentation, regional literary ties, and artisanal production quality.
What they publish: Poetry, literary essays, regional reflections, and finely crafted prose.

35. Bauhan Publishing

Overview: Bauhan Publishing, serving the New England creative community, is known for publishing literary books with a regional sensibility.
Why choose: Great for authors producing poetry, memoir, and regional nonfiction with artistic finesse.
Strengths: Commitment to high-quality literary design, strong ties to local arts communities, and niche credibility.
What they publish: Poetry, memoir, regional history, literary nonfiction, and cultural commentary.

36. Spinner Publications

Overview: Spinner Publications, while focused on Southeastern New England, includes Massachusetts-centered projects and regional cultural storytelling.
Why choose: Best for authors with historical, cultural, and local-interest projects.
Strengths: Deep archival research experience, strong photography use, and community-driven catalogues.
What they publish: Regional history, biography, cultural photography, and heritage-based nonfiction.

37. Zoomorphic Press

Overview: Zoomorphic Press is a small literary publisher producing environmentally conscious writing with an emphasis on nature and ecological themes.
Why choose: Authors focusing on nature writing, environmental reflection, and ecological storytelling find an ideal home.
Strengths: Deep commitment to eco-literature, boutique production, and mission-driven curation.
What they publish: Nature essays, literary nonfiction, poetry, and environmental narratives.

38. Ibbetson Street Press

Overview: Ibbetson Street Press, based in Somerville, is a long-standing poetry publisher with a strong New England identity.
Why choose: Poets wanting chapbooks, literary journals, or small-press credibility benefit from their community presence.
Strengths: Literary magazine connections, regional recognition, and support for both new and established poets.
What they publish: Poetry collections, chapbooks, and regional literary journals.

39. Wilderness House Press

Overview: Wilderness House Press produces poetry, literary essays, and experimental narratives, anchored in a community of New England writers.
Why choose: Writers who enjoy creative freedom and experimental boundaries find this publisher welcoming.
Strengths: Supportive literary networks, open-minded editorial direction, and consistent small-press presence.
What they publish: Poetry, essays, hybrid forms, and select fiction.

40. Off the Common Books

Overview: Off the Common Books, affiliated with Amherst Writers & Artists, publishes works focused on creative empowerment and expressive writing.
Why choose: Ideal for authors who want a mission-driven, community-centered publisher that supports authentic voices.
Strengths: Deep workshop connections, strong nurturing ethos, and dedication to writer development.
What they publish: Literary nonfiction, community anthologies, poetry, and expressive, voice-driven fiction.

41. Black Rose Writing (Massachusetts Author Community Presence)

Overview: Although headquartered elsewhere, Black Rose Writing maintains a strong author community in Massachusetts and frequently publishes writers from the region.
Why choose: Ideal for authors wanting an approachable independent press that accepts a wide range of genres with flexible submission options.
Strengths: Fast response times, accessible editorial communication, and supportive promotional programs for debut and mid-list authors.
What they publish: Fiction, thrillers, fantasy, memoir, historical novels, crime, and general nonfiction with broad commercial appeal.

42. Paraclete Press (New England–Based)

Overview: Paraclete Press, based in the wider New England region, actively publishes Massachusetts authors and is known for Christian books, spirituality, and sacred music.
Why choose: Perfect for writers offering faith-based manuscripts seeking a calm, thoughtful, and devotional editorial environment.
Strengths: Strong niche readership, excellent church distribution, and consistent backlist sales for spiritual titles.
What they publish: Christian living, inspirational nonfiction, devotionals, spiritual reflections, poetry, and liturgical titles.

43. Ig Publishing (Publishing Massachusetts Authors Regularly)

Overview: Ig Publishing is an independent literary and political press that frequently publishes Massachusetts-based writers through its fiction and nonfiction lists.
Why choose: A great option for authors with bold, socially observant manuscripts or literary work that challenges norms.
Strengths: Strong political nonfiction presence, respected literary fiction selections, and consistent indie-press credibility.
What they publish: Literary fiction, progressive political nonfiction, cultural criticism, and essay-driven nonfiction.

44. The History Press (Arcadia Publishing Group)

Overview: The History Press, part of Arcadia, actively produces Massachusetts-focused regional history titles by local historians and writers.
Why choose: Perfect for authors working on highly localized narratives, community history, and place-based research.
Strengths: Excellent regional distribution, strong local bookstore relationships, and heritage-focused marketing support.
What they publish: Local histories, biographies, architecture, community storytelling, and historical photo-driven nonfiction.

45. Roman & Littlefield (Regional Academic Presence)

Overview: Roman & Littlefield, while nationally distributed, maintains academic connections with Massachusetts educators and publishes many authors from the region.
Why choose: Suitable for academics, professionals, and general-interest nonfiction writers seeking a major independent scholarly press.
Strengths: Broad academic series, strong library distribution, and hybrid trade–scholarly publishing.
What they publish: History, political science, education, memoir, academic research, and professional nonfiction.

46. Grey Wolfe Publishing (Massachusetts Contributor Network)

Overview: Grey Wolfe publishes emerging and mid-list authors, with an extended contributor base that includes Massachusetts writers across genres.
Why choose: Writers wanting a friendly and flexible independent press with interest in new voices find them accessible.
Strengths: Personalized editing, openness to debut authors, and a supportive author community.
What they publish: Fiction, YA, contemporary stories, memoir, and personal-growth nonfiction.

47. Hidden Brook Press (New England Literary Reach)

Overview: Hidden Brook Press, though not exclusively Massachusetts-based, regularly includes Massachusetts authors in its anthologies and literary releases.
Why choose: Great for writers seeking literary publication, anthology participation, and smaller-press community visibility.
Strengths: Literary networking, poetry-friendly editorial teams, and high acceptance of creative nonfiction.
What they publish: Poetry, literary fiction, creative nonfiction, collections, and themed anthologies.

48. Encircle Publications

Overview: Encircle Publications (New England–connected) publishes crime, mystery, and literary fiction while supporting many Massachusetts authors.
Why choose: Ideal for mystery and thriller writers who want a niche-savvy, supportive small press.
Strengths: Genre expertise, close author communication, and consistent reader engagement through events and community promotion.
What they publish: Mystery, crime fiction, thrillers, literary fiction, and select narrative nonfiction.

49. Cider Mill Press (New England Lifestyle Publisher)

Overview: Cider Mill Press, with strong roots in New England, produces beautifully designed lifestyle, gift, and illustrated books with widespread retail distribution.
Why choose: Ideal for authors with visually appealing projects, novelty books, or creative nonfiction for gift markets.
Strengths: High production value, strong bookstore and holiday market presence, and attractive illustrated formats.
What they publish: Cookbooks, humor, crafts, pop culture, gift books, and lifestyle nonfiction.

50. Red Barn Books (Massachusetts Regional)

Overview: Red Barn Books is a small, regionally focused children’s publisher creating New England–themed picture books and family-friendly stories.
Why choose: Great for children’s authors writing regional tales, nature stories, or educational themes connected to Massachusetts.
Strengths: Strong local reach, charming illustration styles, and community partnerships with schools and libraries.
What they publish: Children’s picture books, early readers, regional nature stories, and educational children’s titles.

Top 50 Book Publishing Companies in Massachusetts

#	Publisher	Overview	Why Choose	Strengths	What They Publish
1	Ghostwriter Inside	Full-service author partner offering ghostwriting, editorial packages, book design, and marketing services.	Ideal for hands-on ghostwriting and turnkey push-to-market approach.	Deep experience turning ideas into marketable proposals; coordinated editorial and publicity workflows.	Business books, memoirs, leadership titles, how-to guides, platform-driven non-fiction.
2	Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH)	Long-established educational and trade publisher in Boston, known for K–12 curriculum, trade, and reference works.	Broad distribution, strong school/library channels, reputable editorial teams.	Deep institutional relationships with schools; tested curricular products; robust sales/distribution networks.	K–12 curricula, literacy programs, trade nonfiction, reference titles.
3	MIT Press	Prestigious academic and trade publisher focusing on technology, science, art, and scholarship.	Excellent for work bridging scholarship and accessible ideas in STEM, design, and cognitive science.	Strong reputation for intellectually ambitious books; global distribution partnerships.	Academic monographs, trade science/technology/design books, interdisciplinary work.
4	Harvard University Press	Publishes scholarly and trade books combining rigorous research with public interest.	Authors seeking prestige, peer review, and academic reach.	Rigorous editorial process, high production standards, Harvard name cachet.	Humanities, social sciences, public affairs, select trade titles.
5	Beacon Press	Nonprofit press known for socially engaged nonfiction and progressive voices.	Authors writing on social justice, religion, race, and public policy.	Civic-minded titles, strong backlist, activist and academic relationships.	Politics, religion, human rights, race studies, and narrative nonfiction.
6	Candlewick Press	Premier children’s publisher celebrated for picture books and YA fiction.	Ideal for illustrated children’s books, middle-grade, and YA fiction.	Award-winning art direction, strong school/library sales, bestseller track record.	Picture books, middle-grade, YA, illustrated nonfiction.
7	Small Beer Press	Respected independent publisher specializing in literary speculative fiction and short fiction collections.	Great for literary SF/F authors seeking boutique editorial attention.	Strong community reputation, focused niche expertise, author-friendly ethos.	Literary fantasy, science fiction, short stories, and cross-genre works.
8	University of Massachusetts Press	Scholarly press publishing rigorously edited academic and regional titles.	Academic authors seeking peer-reviewed scholarship and a regional focus.	Peer review, university backing, strong regional/thematic series.	Academic monographs, regional history, poetry, literary fiction, and cultural studies.
9	Brandeis University Press	Publishes scholarly and trade books with strengths in Jewish studies and cultural scholarship.	Scholars and writers in Jewish studies, cultural history, humanities.	Academic rigor, expanding trade reach, growing backlist.	Jewish studies, humanities, regional/cultural titles, public-interest academic works.
10	Charlesbridge Publishing	Independent publisher of children’s books with classroom ties.	Educational, culturally diverse, STEM-linked children’s books.	Strong education outreach, bilingual/multicultural lists, and curriculum alignment.	Picture books, middle-grade fiction/nonfiction, bilingual titles, educational materials.
11	Page Street Publishing	Fast-growing independent imprint known for lifestyle, cookbook, YA, and illustrated nonfiction.	Authors of cookbooks, lifestyle, craft, and illustrated nonfiction.	High-quality photography/design, strong retail partnerships, and sustainable practices.	Cookbooks, crafts, lifestyle, YA, illustrated nonfiction.
12	David R. Godine, Publisher	Boston-based independent literary publisher focusing on poetry, narrative nonfiction, and art books.	Boutique attention, elegant production, literary credibility.	Artisanal design, small-press editorial care, focus on lasting works.	Literary nonfiction, poetry, literary fiction, art and photography, select children’s titles.
13	National Braille Press	Nonprofit braille publisher and accessibility leader producing braille books and tactile graphics.	Authors/organizations producing accessible content or braille conversion.	Expertise in braille transcription, tactile formatting, and nationwide programs.	Braille books, literacy materials, and accessible educational resources.
14	Christian Science Publishing Society	Long-standing publishing arm producing religious books and periodicals.	Authors of Christian Science-oriented works, study guides, and church publications.	Deep institutional mission, historic archives, periodical presence.	Religious texts, study guides, biographies, and church periodicals.
15	Wisdom Publications	Focuses on Buddhist and contemplative literature—scholarly and practice-oriented.	Authors on Buddhist philosophy, meditation manuals, and contemplative studies.	Niche authority, international teacher relationships, and course adoption.	Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, spiritual practice.
16	Northeastern University Press	Supports scholarly and digital publishing programs, continuing UPNE legacy.	Academic authors with regional/discipline-specific projects.	Academic networks, digital tools, and campus research ties.	Scholarly monographs, history, criminology, musicology, and digital projects.
17	Wellesley-Cambridge Press	Specializes in applied mathematics textbooks and technical titles.	Academics/instructors needing classroom-ready technical texts.	Niche technical expertise, quality typesetting, author-driven editions.	Math textbooks, technical monographs, specialized academic works.
18	Jones & Bartlett Learning	Educational publisher focusing on health, nursing, and professional education.	Health sciences/professional authors needing adoption and digital integration.	Course adoption channels, digital platforms, and professional market connections.	Health education, nursing textbooks, professional training, e-learning.
19	De Gruyter	Global academic publisher with Boston representation for local authors.	Authors seeking international academic distribution and scholarly imprint.	Global reach, multilingual catalogues, strong academic programs.	Academic monographs, reference works, specialist scholarly series.
20	Cengage Learning	Major educational publisher with Boston presence; higher-education textbooks and digital solutions.	College textbook authors/instructors seeking wide course adoption.	Large adoption network, digital platforms, and ancillary materials.	College textbooks, digital courseware, professional learning content.
21	Adams Media	Market-driven nonfiction focusing on lifestyle, self-help, creativity, and practical guides.	Authors delivering trend-aligned, actionable content.	Strong gift-book positioning, evergreen topics, highly marketable.	Self-help, wellness, business guides, journaling, lifestyle titles.
22	Shambhala Publications	Spiritual, mindfulness, and wellness titles; historic Boston connections.	Authors in meditation, holistic living, and contemplative traditions.	Strong brand recognition, bookstore placement, loyal niche readers.	Buddhism, yoga, mindfulness, spiritual philosophy, creativity, wellness.
23	Quarto Publishing Group	Illustrated nonfiction across lifestyle categories with Massachusetts editorial presence.	Authors with visually driven projects need strong design.	Global distribution, striking design, high production quality.	Arts, crafts, automotive, gardening, cooking, hobbies.
24	Commonwealth Editions	Part of Arcadia Publishing; focused on regional storytelling, history, and culture.	Local-interest, community histories, place-based nonfiction.	New England reach, bookstore/library channels, tourism-driven sales.	Local history, travel, culture, photography, and community nonfiction.
25	Hudson Whitman / Excelsior Editions	Publishes general-interest nonfiction, literary works, and regional titles.	Small press blending accessible writing with thoughtful editing.	Boutique attention, flexible editorial process, and emerging author opportunities.	Narrative nonfiction, memoir, regional history, cultural essays, and fiction.
26	Tuttle Publishing	Focused on Asian culture–related titles; global reach.	Cultural guides, language books, and Asian-inspired cookbooks.	Strong international distribution, multicultural authority, and illustrated formats.	Language guides, martial arts, cookbooks, travel, and cultural studies.
27	Rockport Publishers	Specializes in design, art, and creative business books.	Authors in design fields need polished, professional titles.	Authoritative art direction, professional-level design content.	Graphic design, branding, typography, illustration, and creative entrepreneurship.
28	Quixotic Press	Independent publisher known for literary, personal, character-driven projects.	Small-press, hands-on editorial relationships.	Personalized editing, local literary community connections, and flexibility.	Literary fiction, memoir, essays, small-format creative nonfiction.
29	Tupelo Press	Award-winning independent literary publisher; poetry, hybrid genres.	Poets and literary writers are seeking prizes and credibility.	High editorial standards, nationally recognized prizes, and craft support.	Poetry, literary nonfiction, cross-genre experiments, select fiction.
30	Firefly Publishing & Entertainment	Produces genre fiction, creative books, and pop-culture projects.	Writers seeking small, community-oriented genre press.	Flexible editorial relationships, fan community engagement, and emerging author support.	Fantasy, thrillers, paranormal fiction, comics-adjacent books, pop-culture titles.
31	Merrimack Media	Hybrid publishing services: professional design, publishing, and marketing.	Entrepreneurs, memoirists, and self-funded authors seeking guidance.	Custom packages, transparent workflow, developmental guidance.	Nonfiction, memoir, business books, children’s titles, hybrid projects.
32	Levellers Press	Community-based press emphasizing regional authorship.	Authors seeking local engagement and ethical small-press publishing.	Cooperative ethos, local distribution, supportive editorial partnerships.	Poetry, regional nonfiction, political essays, community projects.
33	Plum Street Press	Boutique publisher for thoughtful nonfiction and select fiction.	Authors desiring boutique attention and socially relevant storytelling.	Focused editorial collaboration, quality production, personalized marketing.	Memoir, literary fiction, cultural commentary, contemporary nonfiction.
34	Hobblebush Books	Publishes poetry and literary prose with craftsmanship and care.	Writers value careful editing, literary depth, and respectful relationships.	Poetry presentation, regional literary ties, artisanal production.	Poetry, literary essays, regional reflections, and finely crafted prose.
35	Bauhan Publishing	Serves the New England creative community; literary and regional focus.	Authors producing poetry, memoir, or regional nonfiction with artistic finesse.	High-quality literary design, local arts community connections, niche credibility.	Poetry, memoir, regional history, literary nonfiction, cultural commentary.
36	Spinner Publications	Southeastern New England focus: regional cultural storytelling.	Authors with historical, cultural, and local-interest projects.	Archival research, photography use, and community-driven catalogues.	Regional history, biography, cultural photography, heritage nonfiction.
37	Zoomorphic Press	Small literary press; environmentally conscious writing.	Authors focusing on nature, ecology, and environmental storytelling.	Eco-literature commitment, boutique production, mission-driven curation.	Nature essays, literary nonfiction, poetry, and environmental narratives.
38	Ibbetson Street Press	Poetry-focused small press with a strong New England identity.	Poets seeking chapbooks, literary journals, and small-press credibility.	Literary magazine connections, regional recognition, support for emerging poets.	Poetry collections, chapbooks, and regional literary journals.
39	Wilderness House Press	Publishes poetry, literary essays, and experimental narratives.	Writers seeking creative freedom and experimental work.	Supportive literary networks, open-minded editorial direction, small-press presence.	Poetry, essays, hybrid forms, select fiction.
40	Off the Common Books	Affiliated with Amherst Writers & Artists; mission-driven.	Authors seeking community-centered support and authentic voices.	Deep workshop connections, nurturing ethos, writer development.	Literary nonfiction, community anthologies, poetry, expressive fiction.
41	Black Rose Writing	Maintains a strong Massachusetts author community.	Approachable independent press, wide genre acceptance.	Fast response, accessible editorial communication, debut author support.	Fiction, thrillers, fantasy, memoir, historical novels, and general nonfiction.
42	Paraclete Press	Publishes Christian books, spirituality, and sacred music.	Faith-based manuscripts, devotional works.	Strong niche readership, church distribution, consistent backlist sales.	Christian living, inspiration, devotionals, spiritual reflections, poetry.
43	Ig Publishing	Literary and political press; publishes Massachusetts authors.	Bold, socially observant, literary work challenging norms.	Political nonfiction presence, respected literary fiction, indie-press credibility.	Literary fiction, progressive political nonfiction, cultural criticism, essays.
44	The History Press	Produces Massachusetts-focused regional history titles.	Local historians, community stories, place-based nonfiction.	Regional distribution, local bookstore relationships, heritage marketing.	Local histories, biographies, architecture, community storytelling, historical photo-driven nonfiction.
45	Roman & Littlefield	Academic and general-interest nonfiction; Massachusetts connections.	Academics/professional nonfiction writers.	Broad academic series, library distribution, hybrid trade–scholarly publishing.	History, political science, education, memoir, academic research, professional nonfiction.
46	Grey Wolfe Publishing	Publishes emerging and mid-list authors; Massachusetts contributor base.	Friendly, flexible, independent press open to new voices.	Personalized editing, debut author support, and community engagement.	Fiction, YA, contemporary stories, memoir, personal-growth nonfiction.
47	Hidden Brook Press	Literary press, including Massachusetts authors in anthologies.	Literary publication, anthology participation, small-press visibility.	Literary networking, poetry editorial teams, and creative nonfiction support.	Poetry, literary fiction, creative nonfiction, collections, themed anthologies.
48	Encircle Publications	Crime, mystery, literary fiction; Massachusetts authors supported.	Mystery/thriller writers seeking niche small press.	Genre expertise, author communication, and reader engagement via community events.	Mystery, crime fiction, thrillers, literary fiction, narrative nonfiction.
49	Cider Mill Press	Lifestyle, gift, and illustrated books; New England roots.	Visually appealing, novelty, or gift-market projects.	High production value, bookstore/holiday market presence, illustrated formats.	Cookbooks, humor, crafts, pop culture, gift books, lifestyle nonfiction.
50	Red Barn Books	Regionally focused children’s publisher; Massachusetts stories.	Children’s authors write regional tales, nature stories, or educational themes.	Local reach, charming illustration styles, school/library partnerships.	Children’s picture books, early readers, regional nature stories, educational titles.

How to Choose the Right Massachusetts Publisher

Selecting the right publisher in Massachusetts depends on your genre, audience, and publishing goals. University presses are ideal for scholarly work; independents suit literary, niche, or children’s projects; and major educational houses excel for textbooks and trade nonfiction. Consider the publisher’s distribution channels, editorial style, and market reach to ensure the best fit for your book.

Conclusion

Massachusetts offers a diverse, rich publishing landscape — from major educational houses and university presses to boutique literary and children’s publishers. Authors can find a perfect match for every genre, mission, or audience, whether it’s scholarly research, literary fiction, children’s books, or social-impact nonfiction. By evaluating a publisher’s editorial style, strengths, and distribution channels, authors can maximize their book’s reach, credibility, and impact, making Massachusetts an ideal hub for both emerging and established writers.

FAQs

1: Do all Massachusetts publishers accept unagented submissions?

No, some accept unagented queries (e.g., Candlewick, Page Street), but many university or major presses prefer agents.

2: Which press is best for children’s books?

Candlewick, Charlesbridge, Red Barn Books, and Cider Mill Press specialize in children’s and middle-grade titles.

3: Can small presses get wide distribution?

Yes, many independents partner with major distributors or aggregators to reach bookstores and libraries.

4: Which publishers focus on academic or textbook publishing?

MIT Press, Harvard University Press, UMass Press, HMH, Cengage und Jones & Bartlett.

5: Are there publishers for niche or mission-driven topics?

Beacon Press, Wisdom Publications, Shambhala Publications, and Zoomorphic Press specialize in social impact, spirituality, or environmental topics.

 

Disclaimer: Ghostwriter Inside provides information about publishers and industry resources solely for educational purposes. We are not affiliated with any publishers mentioned, and we do not guarantee anything related to submissions, publishing outcomes, or manuscript acceptance. Our services are limited to professional ghostwriting, editing, and book marketing support to help authors enhance their work before submission.