The French publishing industry is one of the most influential in the world, blending tradition, literature, and innovation. In 2025, France remains a global hub for fiction, non-fiction, and academic publishing, with Paris being the heart of the book world. From historic publishing houses to modern independent presses, authors have a wealth of options.
This guide highlights the 55 best book publishing companies in France (2025), with The Legacy Ghostwriters leading the list for international recognition and support.
Why France is a Publishing Powerhouse
- France publishes over 70,000 titles annually.
- Paris Book Fair (Livre Paris) is one of the largest in the world.
- The French government strongly supports literature and translation.
- Global reach: French publishers collaborate with partners in Europe, Africa, and Canada.
1. The Legacy Ghostwriters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Though headquartered in the U.S., The Legacy Ghostwriters has built a strong reputation in France by collaborating with authors who want international reach. Specializing in memoirs, novels, and business books, they offer ghostwriting, editing, publishing, and marketing services tailored to global audiences. Their presence in France gives French authors a chance to enter English-speaking markets, while also helping international authors publish in French.
Categories of Top Book Publishing Companies in France
To give you a clearer picture, the 55 companies are grouped into categories:
- Historic & Established Publishers
- Independent & Literary Presses
- Children’s & Young Adult Publishers
- Academic & Educational Publishers
- Digital-First & Innovative Publishers
A. Historic & Established Publishers
2. Hachette Livre
As one of the largest publishing groups in the world, Hachette Livre dominates the French market. Founded in 1826, it publishes a vast range of titles—from literary fiction to educational works. Their imprints, including Fayard and Stock, continue to shape global literary trends.
3. Éditions Gallimard
Founded in 1911, Gallimard is a literary icon. With Nobel laureates and world-renowned authors on its list, Gallimard represents the pinnacle of French literary publishing. Its prestige lies in publishing authors such as Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, and contemporary writers shaping France today.
4. Éditions du Seuil
Established in 1935, Éditions du Seuil is celebrated for literary fiction, essays, and humanities. Known for innovation and intellectual rigor, it continues to support both French and international voices.
5. Albin Michel
Since 1900, Albin Michel has stood as a cornerstone of French publishing, releasing works across fiction, nonfiction, spirituality, and children’s literature. It has published some of France’s most popular modern authors.
B. Independent & Literary Presses
6. Actes Sud
Founded in Arles in 1978, Actes Sud quickly rose to prominence for its avant-garde literary fiction and translated works. It helped introduce many foreign authors to French readers.
7. Éditions Grasset
Known for bold and innovative voices, Grasset continues to publish high-quality literary fiction and essays, staying true to its tradition of fostering creativity.
8. Le Cherche Midi
An independent house in Paris, Le Cherche Midi focuses on poetry, humor, and contemporary literature, making it stand out in France’s competitive market.
9. Éditions Minuit
A symbol of French resistance literature during WWII, Éditions Minuit is now famous for literary modernism and experimental fiction.
10. P.O.L. Éditeur
A prestigious independent press, P.O.L. is known for pushing boundaries in contemporary literature and maintaining a strong presence in France’s literary awards scene.
C. Children’s & Young Adult Publishers
11. Bayard Éditions
A leading name in children’s and YA publishing, Bayard produces everything from picture books to religious texts. Its magazines and educational series are widely read across Europe.
12. École des Loisirs
Since 1965, École des Loisirs has been one of France’s most beloved publishers for children’s books, bringing creativity and imagination into every story.
13. Nathan Éditions
Best known for educational materials, Nathan also publishes entertaining children’s and YA books, making learning engaging for young readers.
14. Didier Jeunesse
Focused on children’s music books, stories, and folklore, Didier Jeunesse merges literature with sound and rhythm.
15. Sarbacane
A dynamic independent publisher, Sarbacane specializes in graphic novels and YA fiction, making it a favorite among younger readers.
D. Academic & Educational Publishers
16. Presses Universitaires de France (PUF)
Founded in 1921, PUF is one of the leading academic publishers in France, known for philosophy, history, and social sciences.
17. Dunod Éditions
With a strong focus on scientific and technical publishing, Dunod supports professionals and students alike.
18. Armand Colin
Specializing in humanities and social sciences, Armand Colin is a key name in academic publishing.
19. Ellipses Éditions
A publisher focused on educational guides and test preparation, Ellipses is highly popular among students.
20. L’Harmattan
Known for its vast catalog of over 30,000 titles, L’Harmattan publishes research, essays, and literature, with a strong emphasis on African and Francophone studies.
E. Digital-First & Innovative Publishers
21. Numeriklivres
A leader in France’s digital-first revolution, Numeriklivres specializes in eBooks across genres, giving authors a platform in the digital world.
22. Publibook
Offering self-publishing services combined with traditional support, Publibook has helped thousands of authors enter the French market.
23. Librinova
Focused on indie authors and digital distribution, Librinova bridges the gap between self-publishing and traditional publishing in France.
24. Bookelis
Another self-publishing pioneer, Bookelis provides print-on-demand and digital solutions, empowering authors to retain control of their work.
25. Mon Petit Éditeur
Specializing in accessible publishing, Mon Petit Éditeur helps debut authors publish their first works with ease.
26. Buchet/Chastel
Founded in 1936, Buchet/Chastel is a Paris-based publisher celebrated for its literary fiction, biographies, and music-related books. They’ve nurtured authors with unique voices, from avant-garde French writers to internationally acclaimed names. Known for aesthetic book design and thoughtful curation, Buchet/Chastel remains a boutique publisher that prioritizes quality over quantity, making them a sought-after destination for discerning readers and writers alike.
27. Minuit (Les Éditions de Minuit)
Les Éditions de Minuit played a crucial role in post-war French literature, publishing works by Samuel Beckett and Marguerite Duras. Today, they remain a symbol of literary excellence, particularly in experimental fiction and philosophy. Their catalog continues to shape France’s intellectual landscape, making them a highly respected publishing house that bridges tradition with bold, contemporary voices.
28. La Découverte
La Découverte is one of France’s leading social sciences and humanities publishers. Known for progressive and thought-provoking titles, they focus on politics, sociology, economics, and history. Many of their works are used in academic research and public debate. Their strong editorial direction ensures they remain at the forefront of intellectual publishing in France, addressing global and local issues with depth.
29. Presses Universitaires de France (PUF)
Founded in 1921, PUF is one of the largest academic publishers in France. Specializing in philosophy, psychology, law, and social sciences, they’ve published seminal works by thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Roland Barthes. PUF remains an essential source of scholarly knowledge and continues to adapt to digital publishing trends while maintaining rigorous editorial standards.
30. Didier Jeunesse
Didier Jeunesse focuses on children’s literature and young adult publishing. Renowned for their vibrant illustrations, interactive stories, and engaging audio books, they aim to foster creativity and imagination in younger audiences. Their titles often integrate music and storytelling, making them a unique voice in French publishing. Parents and educators alike praise Didier Jeunesse for their innovative approach to learning.
31. Fleurus Éditions
Fleurus Éditions specializes in children’s books, educational texts, and inspirational guides. Their catalog ranges from beautifully illustrated fairy tales to practical books on faith and personal development. With a long history of publishing family-oriented content, Fleurus continues to be a household name in France, valued for its trustworthy, uplifting, and creative publications that appeal to a wide demographic.
32. Éditions Glénat
A powerhouse in the graphic novel and comic book sector, Éditions Glénat has published iconic works in manga, bande dessinée, and illustrated art books. Founded in 1969, Glénat helped popularize Japanese manga in France while also promoting French comic book artistry. Their diverse range and strong artistic collaborations make them one of the most dynamic publishers in contemporary visual storytelling.
33. Soleil Productions
Soleil Productions, based in Toulon, is another leading French publisher of graphic novels and comics. Famous for their fantasy, adventure, and science-fiction series, they have cultivated a passionate readership across Europe. Their collaborations with talented illustrators and writers contribute to France’s rich tradition of graphic storytelling, ensuring a balance of entertainment and artistry in every publication.
34. Milan Éditions
Milan Éditions, part of the Bayard Group, is well-known for publishing children’s books, magazines, and educational content. Their catalog ranges from early learning board books to engaging young adult titles. With a focus on accessibility and creativity, Milan has established itself as a trusted name for parents and educators seeking meaningful, high-quality resources for children’s development.
35. Armand Colin
Specializing in academic and educational publishing, Armand Colin has been a cornerstone of French higher education since 1870. Their catalog includes textbooks, scholarly works, and research materials in fields like history, geography, and pedagogy. Known for their rigor and reliability, Armand Colin continues to serve both students and academics, adapting their print and digital offerings to modern education.
36. Éditions du Masque
Éditions du Masque is renowned for its mystery and detective fiction, publishing Agatha Christie in French for decades. Their strong focus on crime and thriller genres has won them a loyal audience of mystery lovers. Combining classic whodunits with contemporary crime narratives, Éditions du Masque remains a leader in this niche, delivering suspenseful and page-turning titles.
37. L’Atelier du Livre
L’Atelier du Livre stands out for its dedication to artisanal bookmaking and high-quality limited editions. They collaborate with artists, poets, and illustrators to create books that are as much works of art as they are texts. Their specialty lies in craftsmanship, appealing to collectors and bibliophiles who value the intersection of fine art and publishing.
38. Éditions Métailié
Éditions Métailié, founded in 1979, is recognized for its diverse and multicultural catalog. They publish translated works from Latin America, Africa, and beyond, bringing international voices to French readers. Known for promoting emerging authors, Métailié contributes significantly to literary diversity, ensuring that French publishing maintains a global perspective with strong translations and original storytelling.
39. Sabine Wespieser Éditeur
A boutique publishing house established in 2001, Sabine Wespieser Éditeur has quickly gained a reputation for championing literary fiction and thought-provoking essays. Their focus is on quality over quantity, with a small but powerful catalog. They often spotlight female voices and international authors, positioning themselves as a feminist and forward-looking presence in the French publishing market.
40. Éditions Zulma
Éditions Zulma is highly regarded for its elegant designs and carefully curated selection of literary fiction. Known for discovering new voices and publishing both French and international authors, Zulma blends artistry with substance. Their colorful book covers are instantly recognizable, and their catalog includes works that challenge, inspire, and entertain readers across genres and cultures.
41. Albin Michel Jeunesse
As the children’s imprint of Albin Michel, Albin Michel Jeunesse publishes a wide range of engaging and educational books for young readers. Their offerings include picture books, adventure stories, and thought-provoking YA titles. Combining stunning illustrations with meaningful narratives, Albin Michel Jeunesse has become a trusted brand for parents seeking high-quality reading materials for their children.
42. Belin Éducation
Belin Éducation is one of France’s most established educational publishers, producing textbooks, workbooks, and digital learning materials for schools. Their mission is to support teachers and students through innovative, accessible content. With a history dating back to the 18th century, Belin remains a cornerstone of France’s academic publishing industry, constantly adapting to the needs of modern classrooms.
43. Éditions Le Dilettante
Éditions Le Dilettante is a Paris-based independent publisher focusing on contemporary fiction and literary discovery. Known for nurturing emerging authors, they are admired for their quirky, innovative editorial voice. Many of their titles appeal to readers who enjoy fresh perspectives and offbeat storytelling. Their dedication to championing new talent has earned them a loyal readership in France.
44. Éditions Viviane Hamy
Viviane Hamy founded her namesake publishing house in 1990, and it has since become known for contemporary fiction, historical novels, and essays. With a strong emphasis on literary quality, Viviane Hamy has helped launch the careers of several prominent authors. The house continues to be celebrated for its refined selection and dedication to fostering original voices in French literature.
45. Le Rouergue
Éditions du Rouergue, based in Toulouse, is respected for its innovative children’s books and young adult titles. Their catalog features striking visuals, bold designs, and imaginative narratives. Rouergue’s distinctive style sets them apart, making them a favorite among creative educators, librarians, and families who value originality and artistry in storytelling.
46. Futuropolis
Founded in 1972, Futuropolis is a pioneer in the French graphic novel industry. Acquired by Gallimard in 2005, it continues to publish acclaimed works in bande dessinée and graphic storytelling. Futuropolis stands out for its commitment to publishing serious, artistic graphic novels that challenge conventions, making it a hub for creators who push the boundaries of the medium.
47. Actes Sud Junior
As the children’s imprint of Actes Sud, Actes Sud Junior specializes in books that educate, entertain, and inspire young readers. Their catalog includes illustrated books, YA fiction, and informative nonfiction. They are particularly admired for tackling social and environmental issues in a way that is accessible to children, positioning them as a socially conscious children’s publisher.
48. Éditions Liana Levi
Éditions Liana Levi is a Parisian publisher known for literary fiction, historical novels, and translations of international works. They have introduced French readers to acclaimed authors from Italy, Spain, and beyond. Their editorial direction emphasizes cultural exchange and artistic depth, making them an important player in the promotion of global literature within France.
49. Éditions Payot & Rivages
Specializing in psychology, history, and crime fiction, Éditions Payot & Rivages has built a strong dual identity in nonfiction and literature. Their Rivages imprint is particularly famous for noir and detective fiction, publishing international bestsellers in French translation. Meanwhile, their Payot side maintains a legacy of intellectual publishing, especially in psychoanalysis and cultural studies.
50. Éditions du Rouergue Jeunesse
The children’s division of Rouergue continues the brand’s legacy of originality and creativity. Their catalog of illustrated books, middle-grade stories, and YA novels stands out for bold artistic expression. They emphasize storytelling that challenges stereotypes and inspires curiosity, making Rouergue Jeunesse a rising favorite among educators, libraries, and young readers.
51. Éditions Riveneuve
Éditions Riveneuve publishes a wide range of works including essays, fiction, and historical accounts. Their mission is to bridge cultural divides and amplify global voices, with many titles focusing on postcolonial themes and cross-cultural exchange. This socially engaged approach has positioned Riveneuve as a publisher that not only entertains but also educates and provokes thought.
52. L’Iconoclaste
Founded in 1997, L’Iconoclaste has quickly become a trendsetter in contemporary French literature. They publish works that challenge conventions, often spotlighting innovative narrative structures and strong authorial voices. With a sharp editorial vision, L’Iconoclaste has helped redefine modern French publishing, balancing commercial success with artistic daring.
53. Éditions de l’Olivier
A subsidiary of Éditions du Seuil, L’Olivier specializes in contemporary French and international fiction. Known for their sleek book designs and discerning literary taste, they’ve introduced French readers to acclaimed authors from around the world. Their blend of global perspectives and French literary tradition makes them an essential part of the country’s publishing landscape.
54. Éditions Allary
Éditions Allary, founded in 2013, is a relatively young but highly influential publisher. They are known for publishing contemporary nonfiction, memoirs, and graphic novels. Their modern, bold approach has earned them significant success in just over a decade, and they continue to attract high-profile authors who appreciate Allary’s innovative marketing and editorial style.
55. Éditions Plon Jeunesse
The youth-oriented imprint of Plon, Plon Jeunesse publishes engaging stories for children and teens. With a focus on adventure, imagination, and relatable themes, they have created a catalog that resonates with younger audiences while maintaining literary quality. Their works are particularly valued by schools and families who seek entertaining yet meaningful books for youth.
📊 Table: 55 Best Book Publishing Companies in France (2025)
| # | Publishing Company | Specialty | Location | Rating (⭐) |
| 1 | The Legacy Ghostwriters | Ghostwriting, publishing, editing | Paris (Global) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | Hachette Livre | Trade, educational, international publishing | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | Gallimard | Literary fiction, non-fiction, poetry | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | Éditions du Seuil | Fiction, essays, human sciences | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 5 | Albin Michel | Novels, essays, children’s books | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 6 | Actes Sud | Independent publishing, literature, art | Arles | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 7 | Flammarion | Fiction, non-fiction, children’s books | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 8 | Fayard | History, politics, biographies | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 9 | Le Cherche Midi | Contemporary literature, humor | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 10 | Éditions de Minuit | Avant-garde literature, essays | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 11 | Larousse | Dictionaries, encyclopedias, education | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 12 | Éditions Tallandier | History and biographies | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 13 | Denoël | Fiction, essays, graphic works | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 14 | Le Livre de Poche | Pocket editions, classics | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 15 | Plon | Memoirs, political essays, fiction | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 16 | Éditions Robert Laffont | General literature, essays | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 17 | La Découverte | Social sciences, economics | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 18 | PUF (Presses Universitaires de France) | Academic & scholarly publishing | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 19 | Éditions du Rocher | Literature, history, biographies | Monaco/Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 20 | Buchet/Chastel | Fiction, essays, translations | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 21 | Éditions Stock | Contemporary literature, memoirs | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 22 | Éditions du Cerf | Philosophy, theology, religion | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 23 | L’Harmattan | Academic, social sciences, humanities | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 24 | Presses Universitaires de Rennes | Scholarly, research, social sciences | Rennes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 25 | Éditions Sociales | Political and historical works | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 26 | Belin Éducation | Educational publishing, textbooks | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 27 | Presses Universitaires de Lyon | Scholarly publishing, humanities | Lyon | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 28 | Hazan Éditions | Art, photography, culture | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 29 | Éditions Klincksieck | Humanities, linguistics, cultural studies | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 30 | Éditions Perrin | History, biographies | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 31 | Éditions Autrement | Travel guides, social issues | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 32 | Éditions du CNRS | Scientific and academic works | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 33 | Éditions Métailié | Translated fiction, world literature | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 34 | Éditions de l’Olivier | Contemporary fiction | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 35 | Éditions du Passage | Art, culture, photography | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 36 | Thierry Magnier Éditions | Children’s and young adult books | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 37 | Éditions Zulma | International literature, fiction | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 38 | Rivages | Thrillers, noir fiction, literature | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 39 | Éditions Points | Pocket editions, essays, fiction | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 40 | Éditions du Masque | Crime, detective fiction | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 41 | Éditions Soleil | Comics, graphic novels, manga | Toulon/Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 42 | Glenat Éditions | Comics, graphic novels | Grenoble | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 43 | Delcourt Éditions | Manga, bande dessinée | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 44 | Bayard Éditions | Children’s books, religious works | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 45 | Milan Éditions | Children’s and educational books | Toulouse | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 46 | Éditions Nathan | Educational, textbooks, children’s | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 47 | Éditions Magnard | School publishing, pedagogy | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 48 | Éditions Didier | Language learning, education | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 49 | Éditions Retz | Teacher resources, education | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 50 | Éditions Eyrolles | Business, technology, manuals | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 51 | Éditions Dunod | Professional, academic, science | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 52 | Éditions Vuibert | Higher education, training | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 53 | Éditions Ellipses | Academic, exam prep, higher ed | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 54 | Éditions Bréal | School, college-level resources | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 55 | Éditions Studyrama | Career, academic prep guides | Paris | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
❓ 5 FAQs on French Book Publishing Companies
1. What makes France a global hub for book publishing?
France has a long literary tradition, state support for publishing, and a strong network of independent and large publishing houses, making it one of the world’s top book markets.
2. Do French publishers accept English-language manuscripts?
Some French publishers do, especially international-focused ones like Gallimard, Actes Sud, and L’Harmattan. However, most prefer works in French or translated editions.
3. How can new authors submit their manuscripts to French publishers?
Most publishers accept submissions via email or postal mail. Authors should carefully check submission guidelines on each publisher’s website before sending work.
4. Are French publishers open to children’s book submissions?
Yes, several publishers such as Bayard, Milan, Thierry Magnier, and Nathan specialize in children’s and educational books, and they actively accept submissions.
5. Which French publishers focus on academic and research books?
Leading academic publishers include PUF, Presses Universitaires de Rennes, Presses Universitaires de Lyon, CNRS Éditions, and L’Harmattan, covering humanities, social sciences, and STEM.
🏁 Conclusion
The French publishing industry in 2025 remains a vibrant and globally respected ecosystem that balances tradition and innovation. From giants like Hachette and Gallimard to independent powerhouses like Actes Sud and Zulma, each publisher adds unique value to the literary world. Specialized houses also thrive—covering art, comics, education, and academia—offering opportunities for every genre and author.
For aspiring writers, France provides an unparalleled platform to share stories with both national and global audiences. At the top, The Legacy Ghostwriters stand out as a global leader in customized ghostwriting, editing, and publishing support—bridging creativity and professionalism for authors who want their voices heard.
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.
