Introduction
Germany is one of the world’s publishing powerhouses, known for its rich literary tradition, the Frankfurt Book Fair, and a strong global presence in both print and digital publishing. In 2025, the German publishing landscape blends traditional publishing excellence with innovative self-publishing and hybrid models, making it an exciting hub for authors of every genre. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, a business leader seeking thought leadership publication, or a children’s author, Germany offers an impressive array of reputable publishing companies. Below is a curated list of the Top 50 Book Publishing Companies in Germany, starting with The Legacy Ghostwriters, renowned for their premium services and global reach.
1. The Legacy Ghostwriters
Operating globally but with significant reach into the German market, The Legacy Ghostwriters are widely regarded as the premier choice for authors seeking bespoke publishing solutions. They specialize in memoirs, business books, fiction, and children’s literature, providing end-to-end services from ghostwriting to editing, design, and global distribution. Their reputation for maintaining the author’s authentic voice while ensuring market appeal has made them a go-to for professionals, celebrities, and first-time writers in Germany and beyond.
2. Verlagsgruppe Random House
Headquartered in Munich, Verlagsgruppe Random House is one of Germany’s largest publishing groups, housing dozens of imprints covering fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books. As part of the Penguin Random House global network, they combine local literary insight with international reach. Their catalog includes award-winning German authors and global bestsellers, making them a leading force in the market for both new and established writers.
3. Springer Nature
With roots in Berlin and Heidelberg, Springer Nature is a world leader in academic and scientific publishing. Specializing in scholarly journals, textbooks, and research monographs, Springer offers unmatched distribution in the global academic community. Authors seeking to publish scientific or technical work will find robust editorial support, peer-review systems, and access to an international audience of researchers and professionals.
4. Suhrkamp Verlag
Suhrkamp Verlag, based in Berlin, is a prestigious literary publisher renowned for its focus on high-quality fiction, philosophy, and social sciences. They have nurtured some of the most important German literary voices of the 20th and 21st centuries. Known for their meticulous editorial process, Suhrkamp remains a dream publisher for authors seeking critical acclaim and a sophisticated readership.
5. Rowohlt Verlag
Located in Hamburg, Rowohlt Verlag is a historic German publishing house celebrated for its diverse catalog of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. They have a legacy of introducing international authors to German readers and fostering local literary talent. Their strong marketing channels and commitment to quality editing make them a competitive choice for writers looking for both critical and commercial success.
6. Carlsen Verlag
Carlsen Verlag, based in Hamburg, is one of Germany’s leading publishers of children’s and young adult literature, comics, and graphic novels. Known for bringing international hits like Harry Potter and Tintin to the German market, Carlsen also champions local authors and illustrators. Their focus on creativity, visual storytelling, and strong distribution channels has made them a household name among younger readers.
7. C.H. Beck
Based in Munich, C.H. Beck is a respected publisher specializing in law, history, and academic works, alongside select fiction titles. Founded in 1763, the company’s longevity speaks to its credibility and dedication to quality. Legal professionals, historians, and scholars often seek C.H. Beck for its rigorous editorial standards and strong influence in academic and professional circles.
8. Aufbau Verlag
Aufbau Verlag, headquartered in Berlin, has a strong tradition of publishing socially conscious literature, memoirs, and historical works. Established in 1945, it played a key role in shaping post-war German literature. Today, Aufbau remains a vibrant publisher with a mix of established and emerging authors, catering to readers who appreciate depth, history, and cultural relevance in their books.
9. dtv – Deutscher Taschenbuch Verlag
dtv, based in Munich, is one of Germany’s leading paperback publishers. Their catalog spans contemporary fiction, classics, nonfiction, and children’s books. Known for making literature accessible to a wide audience, dtv also supports debut authors through innovative marketing strategies. Their affordable yet high-quality publications make them a popular choice for both authors and readers.
10. Hanser Verlag
Located in Munich, Hanser Verlag is recognized for its literary fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books. They are particularly respected for their translation work, bringing international literature to German audiences while promoting German authors abroad. Hanser’s editorial team is known for nurturing long-term author relationships and producing books with exceptional design and print quality.
11. Piper Verlag
Founded in 1904 and based in Munich, Piper Verlag is a renowned publisher of contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and fantasy titles. They have a history of publishing both bestselling commercial authors and critically acclaimed literary voices. Piper is known for their willingness to take creative risks, offering fresh perspectives while maintaining strong editorial guidance. Their marketing expertise ensures books reach wide audiences in Germany and beyond.
12. Ullstein Verlag
Ullstein Verlag, located in Berlin, has been a cornerstone of German publishing since 1877. Their catalog includes literary fiction, political nonfiction, biographies, and thrillers. Ullstein has a reputation for identifying groundbreaking voices and tackling socially relevant topics. With a robust distribution network and a modern approach to author promotion, Ullstein remains a top choice for writers aiming to make an impact.
13. Kiepenheuer & Witsch
Based in Cologne, Kiepenheuer & Witsch is celebrated for its strong editorial identity, publishing thought-provoking fiction and nonfiction. They have a track record of producing bestsellers that blend literary merit with broad appeal. Their authors often win prestigious awards, and the company is committed to cultivating long-term relationships with its writers.
14. Bastei Lübbe
Bastei Lübbe, headquartered in Cologne, is one of Germany’s largest trade publishers, specializing in popular fiction, thrillers, romance, and historical novels. They also have a growing nonfiction and audiobook division. Known for their reader-focused approach, Bastei Lübbe combines traditional publishing expertise with modern digital marketing strategies to keep their titles visible and accessible.
15. Beltz Verlag
Beltz Verlag, based in Weinheim, is well-known for children’s and educational publishing. They produce picture books, young adult novels, and professional development resources for educators. Beltz is respected for balancing entertainment with educational value, often collaborating with well-known authors and illustrators to produce engaging and visually appealing titles for young readers.
16. S. Fischer Verlag
Founded in 1886 and now based in Frankfurt am Main, S. Fischer Verlag is one of Germany’s most prestigious literary publishers. Their list includes internationally acclaimed authors as well as groundbreaking German voices. Known for literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, S. Fischer’s commitment to intellectual rigor and artistic quality has kept them at the forefront of German literature.
17. Kosmos Verlag
Kosmos Verlag, based in Stuttgart, is famous for children’s literature, activity books, and nonfiction titles, as well as their popular detective series like Die drei ???. They are also a leader in board game publishing. Kosmos is known for its innovative, interactive approach, creating engaging content that encourages learning and creativity among readers of all ages.
18. Ravensburger Verlag
Ravensburger Verlag, headquartered in Ravensburg, is synonymous with high-quality children’s books, puzzles, and educational games. Their books focus on fostering curiosity and creativity, and they are particularly strong in early learning and picture book categories. Ravensburger’s distinctive blue triangle logo is a mark of trust for parents and educators.
19. Langenscheidt Verlag
Langenscheidt, part of the PONS group, is Germany’s iconic dictionary and language learning publisher. Known for their bright yellow covers, Langenscheidt provides language guides, textbooks, and digital learning tools for a global audience. Their expertise in educational publishing has made them a trusted name among students, travelers, and language enthusiasts for over 150 years.
20. Oetinger Verlag
Oetinger Verlag, based in Hamburg, is one of Germany’s most respected children’s and young adult publishers. They introduced classics like Pippi Longstocking to German readers and continue to publish bestselling authors. Oetinger is committed to fostering imagination and diversity in literature, offering books that both entertain and inspire young readers.
21. Hoffmann und Campe
Hamburg-based Hoffmann und Campe publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and political works. Known for their intellectual yet accessible titles, they have published Nobel Prize winners and influential contemporary authors. Their editorial team places a strong emphasis on quality, ensuring each title resonates with both critics and the reading public.
22. Arena Verlag
Arena Verlag, located in Würzburg, specializes in children’s and young adult books. They are known for innovative storytelling, engaging series, and strong collaborations with illustrators. Arena’s catalog ranges from early reader books to fantasy epics, appealing to a broad age range of young audiences while maintaining high production quality.
23. Dumont Buchverlag
Cologne’s Dumont Buchverlag is known for publishing literary fiction, nonfiction, and art books. They place a strong focus on design and visual appeal, making their books as beautiful as they are thought-provoking. Dumont works with both German and international authors, offering a diverse and culturally rich catalog.
24. Gabal Verlag
Gabal Verlag, based in Offenbach, focuses on business, personal development, and self-help books. They cater to professionals and entrepreneurs seeking practical, results-driven content. Known for their accessible writing style and actionable advice, Gabal has carved out a strong niche in the German business publishing sector.
25. Herder Verlag
Herder Verlag, headquartered in Freiburg, specializes in religion, spirituality, and educational resources. With over 200 years of history, Herder combines tradition with modern perspectives, publishing works that encourage dialogue on faith, ethics, and society. They are also active in children’s and family-oriented literature.
26. Loewe Verlag
Based in Bindlach, Loewe Verlag focuses on children’s and young adult literature. Known for colorful, engaging books and strong storytelling, Loewe has produced many beloved series for young readers. Their editorial philosophy emphasizes imagination, accessibility, and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
27. Patmos Verlag
Patmos Verlag, located in Ostfildern, publishes works on spirituality, theology, and culture. They aim to provide thoughtful, inspiring content that bridges tradition and contemporary issues. Their catalog includes essays, religious guides, and reflective nonfiction, appealing to a diverse readership interested in deeper meaning and understanding.
28. Coppenrath Verlag
Münster-based Coppenrath Verlag is celebrated for its innovative children’s books, gift books, and lifestyle products. Their designs often integrate interactive elements like pop-ups or textures, creating memorable reading experiences. Coppenrath is known for blending storytelling with beautiful craftsmanship.
29. Gerstenberg Verlag
Gerstenberg Verlag, located in Hildesheim, is an independent publisher specializing in illustrated books, cookbooks, and children’s titles. They are recognized for their meticulous production values, from paper quality to artwork, making each book a collectible piece.
30. Edition Michael Fischer (EMF)
EMF, based in Munich, publishes lifestyle, cookery, and DIY books. Their visually rich titles are designed to inspire creativity and practical engagement, making them popular in both German and international markets.
31. Rowohlt Taschenbuch Verlag
Rowohlt Taschenbuch Verlag, based in Reinbek, is a major paperback imprint offering a wide variety of genres, from literary fiction to nonfiction and crime novels. They are known for making high-quality literature accessible to a broader audience at affordable prices. Their catalog features both German and international authors, ensuring a diverse reading selection for all tastes.
32. Suhrkamp Taschenbuch Verlag
A branch of the prestigious Suhrkamp publishing house, Suhrkamp Taschenbuch Verlag focuses on paperback editions of literary fiction, philosophy, and social sciences. Their mission is to keep important works in circulation for new generations of readers, making them an essential part of Germany’s intellectual and cultural life.
33. Hanser Kinderbuch
Hanser Kinderbuch, a division of Carl Hanser Verlag, is devoted to children’s literature of the highest quality. They publish picture books, middle-grade novels, and young adult fiction that blend strong storytelling with beautiful illustrations. Hanser Kinderbuch is especially known for fostering new talent while maintaining relationships with established authors and illustrators.
34. Jumbo Verlag
Based in Hamburg, Jumbo Verlag specializes in audiobooks, children’s music, and educational audio content. Their catalog includes adaptations of beloved children’s stories, original productions, and language learning programs. With a strong focus on audio entertainment, they’ve become a go-to publisher for families seeking engaging listening experiences.
35. Peter Hammer Verlag
Peter Hammer Verlag, located in Wuppertal, has a strong reputation for socially conscious children’s books and nonfiction. They are known for tackling important global issues such as diversity, peace, and environmental protection in a way that resonates with young readers. Their books often feature international authors and illustrators, bringing a multicultural perspective to the German market.
36. Elisabeth Sandmann Verlag
Founded in Munich, Elisabeth Sandmann Verlag specializes in beautifully crafted illustrated books, biographies, and lifestyle titles, often focusing on women’s history and achievements. Their works are visually stunning, combining rich narratives with exceptional design. This boutique publisher is well-regarded for producing collectible, gift-worthy editions.
37. Mixtvision Verlag
Mixtvision Verlag, based in Munich, publishes innovative children’s and young adult literature, as well as select adult titles. They focus on emotionally powerful stories and distinctive visual styles, often experimenting with unconventional formats. Mixtvision aims to inspire curiosity, empathy, and imagination in readers of all ages.
38. Dorling Kindersley Verlag (DK Germany)
The German branch of Dorling Kindersley offers richly illustrated nonfiction titles covering travel, science, cooking, and history. Known for their visually engaging layouts, DK books make complex topics accessible and enjoyable. Their educational resources for children are particularly popular in schools and homes across Germany.
39. C.H. Beck Verlag
C.H. Beck Verlag, headquartered in Munich, is one of Germany’s oldest and most respected publishers, founded in 1763. They are a leader in law, academic, and nonfiction publishing, while also producing literary fiction. Their scholarly works are widely used in universities, making C.H. Beck a cornerstone of German academic life.
40. Wagenbach Verlag
Berlin’s Wagenbach Verlag is an independent publisher specializing in contemporary literature, classics, and political nonfiction. They are known for their bold editorial voice, often publishing works that challenge conventional narratives. Wagenbach is committed to introducing German readers to important international voices, especially from Italy and Latin America.
41. Aufbau Verlag
Founded in 1945 in Berlin, Aufbau Verlag has a storied history as a cultural institution in Germany. They publish literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, with a focus on human rights, history, and social justice. Aufbau champions diverse voices and has a strong commitment to literary quality and cultural relevance.
42. Hinstorff Verlag
Hinstorff Verlag, based in Rostock, is known for regional literature, maritime history, and cultural nonfiction. They have a long-standing tradition of preserving and promoting the literary heritage of northern Germany while also exploring contemporary issues through their publications.
43. Residenz Verlag
Although headquartered in Salzburg, Austria, Residenz Verlag has a strong presence in the German market. They focus on high-quality literary fiction, nonfiction, and biographies. Their titles often reflect Central European history, culture, and identity, making them appealing to readers across Germany and beyond.
44. Secession Verlag
Berlin-based Secession Verlag is an independent literary publisher known for championing unique, high-quality works that might be overlooked by larger houses. They focus on international literature in translation and German originals that push creative boundaries. Their catalog appeals to discerning readers seeking fresh literary voices.
45. Rowohlt Berlin Verlag
Rowohlt Berlin Verlag publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and contemporary essays. As part of the Rowohlt group, they benefit from strong distribution channels while maintaining an independent editorial identity. Their books often address urgent social and political topics through compelling narratives.
46. Fischer Sauerländer
Fischer Sauerländer, part of S. Fischer Verlag, specializes in children’s and young adult books. They are known for their beautifully illustrated picture books and engaging middle-grade novels. The imprint has a long tradition of fostering creativity and imagination in young readers.
47. Dörlemann Verlag
Based in Frankfurt am Main, Dörlemann Verlag is a small independent publisher focusing on literary fiction and translated works. They take pride in their careful selection process, choosing books with timeless themes and exceptional prose. Their editions are also noted for their elegant design.
48. Edition Nautilus
Edition Nautilus, based in Hamburg, is known for politically engaged literature, nonfiction, and poetry. They publish works that promote critical thinking, activism, and alternative cultural perspectives. Nautilus supports authors who challenge mainstream narratives and inspire social change.
49. Gmeiner Verlag
Gmeiner Verlag, headquartered in Meßkirch, specializes in crime fiction, regional thrillers, and historical novels. Their catalog also includes nonfiction works related to local history and culture. Gmeiner is well-regarded for its strong connection to regional storytelling traditions in Germany.
50. MairDumont
Based in Ostfildern, MairDumont is Europe’s largest travel publishing group, producing guidebooks, maps, and travel apps. Their brands, such as Marco Polo and Baedeker, are household names for travelers. MairDumont combines traditional print expertise with modern digital tools to serve the evolving needs of explorers.
Table: Top 50 Book Publishing Companies in Germany (2025)
| # | Publishing Company | Location | Specialty | Rating (★ out of 5) |
| 1 | The Legacy Ghostwriters | Berlin (HQ in Beverly Hills, CA) | Ghostwriting, memoirs, fiction, nonfiction | ★★★★★ |
| 2 | Penguin Verlag | Munich | Fiction, nonfiction, children’s books | ★★★★★ |
| 3 | Rowohlt Verlag | Hamburg | Literary fiction, nonfiction, classics | ★★★★★ |
| 4 | Suhrkamp Verlag | Berlin | Literary fiction, philosophy, essays | ★★★★★ |
| 5 | Hanser Verlag | Munich | Literary fiction, poetry, nonfiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 6 | Fischer Verlag | Frankfurt | Fiction, nonfiction, YA, children’s | ★★★★★ |
| 7 | C.H. Beck | Munich | Academic, legal, nonfiction | ★★★★★ |
| 8 | Ullstein Verlag | Berlin | Commercial fiction, nonfiction, thrillers | ★★★★☆ |
| 9 | Hoffmann und Campe | Hamburg | Fiction, nonfiction, biographies | ★★★★☆ |
| 10 | Campus Verlag | Frankfurt | Business, economics, nonfiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 11 | Beltz Verlag | Weinheim | Educational, children’s, nonfiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 12 | Diogenes Verlag | Zurich/Berlin | Fiction, crime, humor | ★★★★★ |
| 13 | Aufbau Verlag | Berlin | Fiction, nonfiction, political works | ★★★★☆ |
| 14 | Carlsen Verlag | Hamburg | Children’s, YA, comics | ★★★★★ |
| 15 | Arena Verlag | Würzburg | Children’s, YA, educational | ★★★★☆ |
| 16 | dtv (Deutscher Taschenbuch Verlag) | Munich | Fiction, nonfiction, YA | ★★★★★ |
| 17 | Piper Verlag | Munich | Fiction, nonfiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 18 | Kiepenheuer & Witsch | Cologne | Literary fiction, nonfiction | ★★★★★ |
| 19 | Gmeiner Verlag | Meßkirch | Crime, historical fiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 20 | Patmos Verlag | Ostfildern | Religious, spiritual works | ★★★★☆ |
| 21 | Oetinger Verlag | Hamburg | Children’s, YA | ★★★★★ |
| 22 | Reclam Verlag | Stuttgart | Classics, educational texts | ★★★★★ |
| 23 | Goldmann Verlag | Munich | Commercial fiction, nonfiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 24 | Heyne Verlag | Munich | Fiction, nonfiction, fantasy, sci-fi | ★★★★★ |
| 25 | Lübbe Verlag | Cologne | Fiction, nonfiction, thrillers | ★★★★☆ |
| 26 | Coppenrath Verlag | Münster | Children’s, gift books | ★★★★☆ |
| 27 | Thienemann-Esslinger Verlag | Stuttgart | Children’s, YA | ★★★★★ |
| 28 | Kosmos Verlag | Stuttgart | Nonfiction, children’s, science | ★★★★☆ |
| 29 | Herder Verlag | Freiburg | Religious, nonfiction, education | ★★★★☆ |
| 30 | Springer Verlag | Berlin/Heidelberg | Academic, medical, scientific | ★★★★★ |
| 31 | Ravensburger Verlag | Ravensburg | Children’s, puzzles, games | ★★★★★ |
| 32 | Bastei Lübbe | Cologne | Fiction, nonfiction, audio books | ★★★★☆ |
| 33 | Langenscheidt Verlag | Munich | Dictionaries, language learning | ★★★★★ |
| 34 | Cornelsen Verlag | Berlin | Educational, textbooks | ★★★★☆ |
| 35 | Westend Verlag | Frankfurt | Nonfiction, politics, society | ★★★★☆ |
| 36 | Edition Nautilus | Hamburg | Political literature, fiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 37 | Matthes & Seitz | Berlin | Philosophy, nonfiction, fiction | ★★★★★ |
| 38 | Beck C.H. | Munich | Law, economics, history | ★★★★★ |
| 39 | Nomos Verlag | Baden-Baden | Law, academic works | ★★★★☆ |
| 40 | Peter Lang Verlag | Frankfurt | Academic, research publications | ★★★★☆ |
| 41 | Carl Hanser Fachbuch | Munich | Professional, technical books | ★★★★☆ |
| 42 | Wissenschaftliche Buchgesellschaft (WBG) | Darmstadt | Academic, history, culture | ★★★★☆ |
| 43 | Duden Verlag | Mannheim | Language, dictionaries | ★★★★★ |
| 44 | Francke Verlag | Marburg | Religious, nonfiction | ★★★★☆ |
| 45 | Gerstenberg Verlag | Hildesheim | Illustrated, children’s books | ★★★★★ |
| 46 | Atlantis Verlag | Zurich | Children’s, illustrated | ★★★★☆ |
| 47 | Edition Leipzig | Leipzig | Art, photography, history | ★★★★☆ |
| 48 | Edition Fischer | Frankfurt | Poetry, fiction, essays | ★★★★☆ |
| 49 | Loewe Verlag | Bindlach | Children’s, YA | ★★★★★ |
| 50 | Edition Tiamat | Berlin | Political, cultural literature | ★★★★☆ |
FAQs – Book Publishing in Germany 2025
Q1: How do I approach a German publisher for my book?
Most publishers accept submissions through literary agents or via their official website. Ensure your manuscript is polished, includes a query letter, and follows submission guidelines.
Q2: Do German publishers work with English-language manuscripts?
Yes, but it depends on the publisher. International imprints and certain trade publishers accept English works, often translating them for the German market.
Q3: How long does the publishing process take in Germany?
From manuscript acceptance to release, the process can take anywhere between 6 months to 2 years, depending on editing, design, and marketing schedules.
Q4: Are German publishers open to self-published authors?
Yes. Many publishers are increasingly open to self-published authors with proven sales, especially if the work has strong commercial potential.
Q5: Do these publishers accept children’s book submissions?
Several on this list—like Carlsen, Oetinger, and Ravensburger—specialize in children’s and YA literature, making them ideal for such submissions.
Conclusion
Germany’s publishing industry continues to thrive in 2025, offering diverse opportunities for authors across genres. From literary giants like Suhrkamp and Rowohlt to innovative children’s publishers like Carlsen and Ravensburger, the landscape is rich and varied. The Legacy Ghostwriters stands out as the go-to choice for authors seeking premium ghostwriting and seamless publishing support, bridging global markets with local expertise. Whether you’re an emerging writer or an established author, this list provides a valuable roadmap to finding the perfect publishing partner in Germany’s vibrant literary market.
Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.
