New York City, while renowned for its diverse and often secular publishing landscape, also plays a significant role in the Christian book market. For authors writing faith-based fiction, non-fiction, devotionals, or theological works, understanding the Christian publishing companies with a presence or strong ties to New York is crucial. These publishers cater to a specific readership, often with a mission-driven approach to their acquisitions and editorial processes book publishing companies nyc.
The Landscape of Christian Publishing
Christian publishing is a distinct segment of the broader book industry, characterized by content that aligns with Christian values, teachings, and perspectives. This includes:
- Fiction: Novels that explore faith themes, often within various genres like romance, historical fiction, or suspense.
- Non-Fiction: Books on theology, apologetics, spiritual growth, Christian living, memoirs of faith, and social commentary from a Christian viewpoint.
- Bibles and Devotionals: Core products for many Christian publishers, including various translations, study Bibles, and daily devotionals.
- Children’s Books: Faith-based stories and educational materials for young readers.
While many major Christian publishers are based outside of New York (e.g., in Nashville, Grand Rapids), several have New York offices or are imprints of larger New York-based conglomerates, making the city a relevant hub for authors.
Key Christian Publishers and Imprints with NYC Ties
Authors seeking to publish Christian books in New York should consider the following:
1. HarperCollins Christian Publishing (Zondervan & Thomas Nelson)
While their main operations are in Nashville, HarperCollins Christian Publishing is a division of HarperCollins, one of the “Big Four” publishers headquartered in New York. This means they have strong ties to the New York publishing ecosystem.
- Zondervan: A leading Christian publisher known for Bibles, academic and reference works, non-fiction, and fiction. They are considered a “gold standard” in Christian publishing.
- Thomas Nelson: Another prominent imprint, focusing on Bibles, non-fiction, and fiction, often with a more commercial appeal.
2. Penguin Random House (WaterBrook & Multnomah)
WaterBrook and Multnomah are Christian imprints under the vast umbrella of Penguin Random House, the largest English-language publisher in the world, with its headquarters in New York.
- WaterBrook & Multnomah: These imprints publish a wide range of inspirational non-fiction and fiction, seeking to encourage readers in their faith and daily lives. They benefit from the extensive distribution and marketing power of Penguin Random House.
3. Church Publishing Inc.
Headquartered in New York City, Church Publishing Inc. has a long religious publishing heritage. They are an official publisher of worship materials and resources for the Episcopal Church, and also serve the broader ecumenical marketplace with books on theology, spirituality, and church history.
4. Independent Christian Publishers with NYC Presence/Reach
Several smaller or independent Christian publishers may have offices or significant operations in or near New York, or they actively acquire authors from the region:
- Dove Christian Publishers: An independent Christian book publisher based in the U.S. (their website indicates a New York contact address), focused on glorifying Jesus Christ through written word, publishing fiction, non-fiction, and more.
- New York Worldwide Christian Publisher®: This publisher explicitly states a New York address and focuses on Christian-themed books, including children’s titles, aiming for worldwide distribution.
- Austin Macauley Publishers (USA): While a general publisher, their New York City office (40 Wall St) indicates they publish Christian titles.
5. Hybrid and Supported Self-Publishing Services
New York also has companies that offer hybrid or supported self-publishing services specifically for Christian authors. These models involve authors paying for services but often retaining higher royalties and more control.
- Xulon Press: While not based in New York, Xulon Press touts itself as the largest Christian self-publisher in North America and is part of Salem Media Group, a large Christian media company. They offer comprehensive packages for Christian authors.
- MindStir Media: With offices in New York City, MindStir Media is an award-winning publisher that offers services for Christian authors, including design, formatting, distribution, and marketing, with high royalty rates.
Submitting Your Christian Manuscript
For authors, the submission process for Christian publishers often mirrors general publishing, but with an added emphasis on theological alignment and target audience:
- Literary Agents: For larger imprints (like those under Penguin Random House or HarperCollins), an agent specializing in Christian literature is often necessary.
- Direct Submissions: Many independent and smaller Christian presses accept direct submissions, often through specific reading periods or contests. Always check their submission guidelines carefully.
- Statement of Faith: Some Christian publishers may require authors to sign a statement of faith or ensure their manuscript aligns with specific theological tenets.
- Author Platform: As with general publishing, a strong author platform is highly beneficial, especially for non-fiction.
Conclusion
New York City offers a significant, albeit specialized, landscape for Christian book publishing. Authors seeking to share their faith-based messages can find a range of opportunities, from major imprints with global reach to independent presses with distinct missions. By understanding the specific focus and submission processes of these companies, Christian authors can effectively navigate the New York publishing scene and bring their inspiring stories to readers.
