Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 1. Scholastic
- 2. Penguin Random House
- 3. HarperCollins Children’s Books
- 4. Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group
- 5. Hachette Children’s Group
- 6. Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing
- 7. Candlewick Press
- 8. Usborne Publishing
- 9. Bloomsbury Children’s Books
- 10. Egmont Publishing
- 11. Chronicle Books
- 12. Disney Publishing Worldwide
- 13. Walker Books
- 14. Random House Children’s Books
- 15. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Conclusion
Introduction
Children’s books play a crucial role in shaping the minds and imaginations of young readers. They are designed to entertain, educate, inspire, and give children a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world. The influence of children’s literature is profound, helping to foster early reading skills, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
This write-up explores 15 largest publishers of children’s books. These publishers are responsible for various titles, from picture books and early readers to young adult novels and educational materials. They have significantly contributed to children’s literature, shaping the narratives that influence young readers.
Each publisher brings a unique perspective to the children’s book market, whether through their commitment to diverse storytelling, innovative illustrations, or long-standing relationships with celebrated authors and illustrators. Let’s delve into the history and significance of these leading publishers, each of which has left a remarkable mark on children’s literature.
1. Scholastic
Scholastic is widely regarded as the largest children’s book publisher in the world. Founded in 1920 by Maurice R. Robinson, the company has been at the forefront of children’s literature for over a century.
Scholastic’s catalog includes iconic series such as Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and Goosebumps by R.L. Stine. In addition to publishing popular fiction, Scholastic is also known for its educational materials, school book fairs, and reading clubs that engage children directly with books in schools.
Scholastic promotes literacy through accessible, engaging books that appeal to children of all reading levels. Its strong connection to schools makes it a trusted name for educators and parents, and its wide range of offerings—from beginner readers to young adult novels—has made it a household name worldwide.
2. Penguin Random House
Penguin Random House, often listed among the world’s largest publishers, has an impressive division dedicated to children’s literature. Formed from the merger of Penguin and Random House in 2013, this publishing giant has a diverse portfolio of children’s books under various imprints, including Puffin Books, Dial Books, and Random House Books for Young Readers.
Their list of notable authors includes Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle (The Very Hungry Caterpillar), and Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory). The publisher emphasizes quality storytelling, and its global reach has solidified its position as a leader in children’s publishing. The company strongly emphasizes inclusivity, promoting books that reflect diverse experiences and voices.
3. HarperCollins Children’s Books
As part of HarperCollins Publishers, the children’s division has produced some of the most beloved books for young readers. Founded in 1817, HarperCollins is one of the “Big Five” English-language publishing companies with a strong reputation in adult and children’s literature.
HarperCollins Children’s Books has published works by legendary authors like Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are) and Beverly Cleary (Ramona Quimby). Its imprints, such as Greenwillow Books and Katherine Tegen Books, are known for high-quality literature for readers of all ages. The company has a significant presence in picture books and young adult fiction, continually introducing new authors and captivating stories to the market.
4. Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group
Macmillan’s children’s division includes several imprints, such as Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers, Henry Holt Books for Young Readers, and Roaring Brook Press. These imprints have published some of the most critically acclaimed books for children, ranging from picture books to young adult novels.
Macmillan is known for publishing award-winning authors like Madeleine L’Engle (A Wrinkle in Time) and Brian Selznick (The Invention of Hugo Cabret). They publish beautifully illustrated books alongside innovative, original stories, which has made them a top contender in the children’s publishing industry. The publisher promotes diverse voices and stories that resonate with young readers across the globe.
5. Hachette Children’s Group
Part of the Hachette Livre group, Hachette Children’s Group is a major force in the world of children’s publishing. It is home to many imprints, including Orchard Books, Hodder Children’s Books, and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Hachette has a strong history of publishing both classic children’s literature and modern bestsellers.
Some of Hachette’s well-known titles include The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis and Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. In addition to popular fiction, Hachette Children’s Group is known for its non-fiction offerings, providing young readers with engaging books on history, science, and nature. Its wide range of genres appeals to a broad audience of children, from toddlers to teens.
6. Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing
Simon & Schuster is among the most prestigious names in publishing, and its children’s division has played a vital role in the company’s success. Founded in 1924, Simon & Schuster has a long tradition of publishing high-quality books for young readers, including iconic works such as Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein.
The company’s children’s publishing division includes several imprints, such as Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon Pulse, and Aladdin. These imprints publish diverse books, ranging from board books for toddlers to young adult fiction. Simon & Schuster is known for discovering and promoting emerging and established authors, continually expanding its impressive catalog of children’s books.
7. Candlewick Press
Candlewick Press is an independent children’s book publisher based in Massachusetts. It has significantly impacted the industry since its founding in 1991. Known for its dedication to producing high-quality, artistically innovative books, Candlewick has earned a reputation for excellence. The publisher is particularly known for its beautiful illustrations and storytelling.
Candlewick’s catalog includes beloved titles such as Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney and Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. As an independent publisher, Candlewick emphasizes the creative freedom of its authors and illustrators, resulting in a distinctive and diverse collection of children’s books that captivate readers of all ages.
8. Usborne Publishing
Usborne Publishing, a British company founded by Peter Usborne in 1973, is known for its interactive, educational children’s books. Usborne books are highly regarded for their innovative design and engaging content, making them a favorite among both children and parents.
The company publishes various titles, including picture books, activity books, and early readers. Usborne is particularly famous for its lift-the-flap books, which combine learning with play, making reading an interactive experience. The company’s focus on educational books that spark curiosity in young readers has made it a leading name in children’s publishing worldwide.
9. Bloomsbury Children’s Books
Bloomsbury Children’s Books is a division of Bloomsbury Publishing, best known for bringing the Harry Potter series to the world. Founded in 1986, Bloomsbury has grown into one of the most respected publishers in the industry, particularly for its children’s and young adult books.
In addition to Harry Potter, Bloomsbury has published numerous other critically acclaimed books, including The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas. Bloomsbury Children’s Books strongly focuses on discovering new talent and promoting diverse voices in children’s literature.
10. Egmont Publishing
Egmont Publishing is a leading Scandinavian publisher of children’s books with a global reach. Founded in 1878, the company has a long history of publishing children’s literature, from picture books to young adult novels. Egmont is the Nordic region’s largest children’s book publisher and has partnerships with major franchises like Disney and Star Wars.
Egmont’s catalog includes original titles and licensed works, making it a significant player in the children’s publishing market. The company’s focus on entertainment and educational elements ensures that its books resonate with young readers worldwide.
11. Chronicle Books
Chronicle Books, based in San Francisco, is known for its innovative and visually stunning children’s books. Founded in 1967, the company has a reputation for publishing beautifully designed books that stand out on the shelves. Chronicle Books is known for its unique, high-quality picture, board, and activity books.
Some of its most popular titles include Press Here by Hervé Tullet and The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt. Chronicle Books is dedicated to creativity and originality, which has made it a favorite among parents, educators, and children alike.
12. Disney Publishing Worldwide
As the publishing arm of The Walt Disney Company, Disney Publishing Worldwide is a major force in the children’s book market. With its vast array of beloved characters and franchises, Disney has an enormous reach for children’s books. From Frozen and The Lion King to Star Wars and Marvel superheroes, Disney’s books appeal to various ages and interests.
In addition to its licensed titles, Disney publishes original works through its imprints, such as Disney Hyperion. Popular titles include Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson & the Olympians and the Heroes of Olympus series.
13. Walker Books
Walker Books is a British publisher that has gained an international reputation for high-quality children’s books. Founded in 1978, the company is known for its commitment to nurturing creativity and artistic talent in authors and illustrators. Walker Books is responsible for publishing beloved titles such as We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney.
The company operates in several countries, including the United States (under the Candlewick Press imprint) and Australia. Walker Books is renowned for its attention to detail, producing books that are not only entertaining but also visually stunning.
14. Random House Children’s Books
Random House Children’s Books, a division of Penguin Random House, is one of the largest and most successful publishers of children’s books in the world. With a rich catalog of titles ranging from picture books to middle-grade novels and young adult fiction, Random House has something for every young reader.
Random House’s iconic titles include The Berenstain Bears series and Magic Tree House by Mary Pope Osborne. The publisher is known for its focus on nurturing long-term relationships with authors and illustrators, ensuring that its books continue to delight readers for generations.
15. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, has a distinguished history of publishing some of the most beloved books in children’s literature. Founded in 1837, Little, Brown is known for its commitment to quality storytelling and strong relationships with authors.
Some of its most well-known titles include The Giver by Lois Lowry, Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, and The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. Little, Brown’s dedication to promoting both emerging and established voices has made it a key player in the children’s book market.
Conclusion
The world of children’s publishing is vast and diverse, with a wide range of companies contributing to the rich tapestry of literature available to young readers. Each of these largest publishers of children’s books has played a pivotal role in shaping the stories that inspire and entertain children around the globe. Whether through timeless classics, innovative designs, or stories promoting diversity and inclusion, these publishers continue to impact future generations’ reading habits and imaginations.
As children’s literature evolves, so too do the publishers behind it. These companies’ dedication to fostering creativity, inclusivity, and a love for reading ensures that children’s books remain a vital part of our culture. By championing authors, illustrators, and storytellers from all walks of life, they provide young readers with stories that reflect their experiences, expand their horizons, and help them grow into thoughtful, empathetic individuals. As we look to the future of children’s literature, these publishers will continue to nurture the next generation of readers and dreamers.