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Publishing a book is one of the most rewarding experiences a writer can have—but it’s also a journey filled with big decisions. Perhaps the most important of these is finding the right publishing company. The truth is, the right partner can elevate your book, amplify your reach, and even open doors to new opportunities.
Luckily, Michigan is home to some of the most influential, diverse, and author-friendly publishers in the United States. From prestigious university presses to boutique publishers that celebrate regional voices, Michigan’s publishing landscape is thriving in 2025.
To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of the 56 best book publishing companies in Michigan. Each entry is explained with what makes it special, so you can match your manuscript with the perfect home.
1. Bestseller Ghostwriting – Your All-in-One Publishing Partner
If you want a publishing partner who does more than just print your book, Bestseller Ghostwriting should be your first stop. They’re not a traditional publisher; they’re a complete publishing and author services powerhouse.
Here’s what sets them apart in 2025:
· Ghostwriting tailored to your voice
Whether it’s a memoir, business book, or novel, they match you with writers who capture your unique style.
· Professional editing & formatting
Every manuscript goes through expert hands to meet publishing standards.
· Cover design that sells
Their design team creates eye-catching covers aligned with market trends.
· Book marketing strategies
From Amazon optimization to global PR, they ensure your book finds its readers.
Bestseller Ghostwriting doesn’t just help you publish a book—they help you build a brand as an author. Explore their publishing services and dive into their blog for insights on how to thrive in today’s competitive book market.
2. Wayne State University Press
Wayne State University Press is one of Michigan’s most respected academic publishers. While their focus lies in scholarly works, cultural studies, and regional titles, they also support literature that celebrates diversity and history.
Authors working with them benefit from:
- A strong reputation within the academic world
- Distribution networks that ensure global visibility
- Editorial expertise rooted in cultural preservation
For academics or writers aiming for credibility, Wayne State is a publisher that carries serious weight.
3. Painted Turtle Press
Painted Turtle Press focuses on works that celebrate Michigan’s unique history and culture. They’re a fantastic fit for authors writing memoirs, local histories, or cultural narratives.
What makes them appealing is their dedication to preserving the identity of Michigan while providing readers with captivating, relatable stories. For regional authors, they’re a publisher that feels like home.
4. Dzanc Books
If your manuscript doesn’t fit neatly into one box, Dzanc Books may be exactly what you need. Known for pushing boundaries in literary fiction and experimental works, they embrace bold, unconventional narratives.
Working with Dzanc means joining a community that values creativity and risk-taking, making them one of Michigan’s most forward-thinking publishers.
5. University of Michigan Press
University of Michigan Press has a worldwide reputation for excellence in the humanities and social sciences. They don’t just publish books—they advance scholarship.
Their strengths include:
- Broad academic credibility
- Global distribution channels
- A commitment to research-driven works
If your manuscript is rooted in serious academic research, this press is one of the most prestigious homes you can find in Michigan.
6. Arbutus Press
Arbutus Press is known for its strong catalog of nonfiction titles, particularly those tied to Michigan lifestyle, travel, and culture. From memoirs about life in the Great Lakes to guides for outdoor enthusiasts, they excel at capturing regional charm.
They provide indie authors with the chance to showcase authentic Michigan stories, giving them a distinctive voice in the nonfiction market.
7. Momentum Books
Momentum Books thrives on publishing works that bridge lifestyle, regional nonfiction, and general interest topics. Their titles often appeal to readers who want accessible, relatable content that still connects deeply to Michigan culture.
For authors with manuscripts that balance broad appeal with local flavor, Momentum is an excellent match.
8. Sleeping Bear Press
If you’ve written a children’s book, Sleeping Bear Press is one of the top publishers in the country. Their books are beautifully illustrated, educational, and engaging, with themes that inspire young readers.
From alphabet series to history-themed picture books, Sleeping Bear’s catalog continues to dominate classrooms and libraries nationwide.
9. Michigan State University Press
Michigan State University Press publishes everything from academic works to regional histories, making them one of the most versatile presses in the state.
Their editorial team is known for supporting authors through every stage of the process, giving scholarly works and general-interest titles alike the attention they deserve.
10. Petoskey Publishing
Petoskey Publishing might be smaller, but what they lack in size, they make up for in personalized attention. Specializing in local histories, memoirs, and regional stories, they ensure that unique Michigan voices are preserved in print.
Authors often praise their approachable process, making them a great choice for first-time writers.
11. Thunder Bay Press
Thunder Bay Press, based in Marquette, is known for publishing books that celebrate Michigan’s breathtaking landscapes, history, and traditions. Their catalog ranges from coffee table books with stunning photography to detailed guides about the Great Lakes region.
For authors passionate about Michigan’s outdoors, culture, or heritage, Thunder Bay Press is a perfect fit. Their strong regional presence ensures your work resonates with locals and tourists alike.
12. Mission Point Press
Mission Point Press offers a hybrid publishing model, making it a favorite for authors who want professional quality without losing creative control. Their services include editing, design, distribution, and marketing, bridging the gap between self-publishing and traditional models.
For writers who want to maintain ownership of their work while still producing a polished, bookstore-ready book, Mission Point Press provides the ideal balance.
13. Richfield Press
Richfield Press has carved a niche by focusing on community-centered publishing. They often publish memoirs, family histories, and regional narratives that highlight Michigan’s unique identity.
If your goal is to share a story rooted in local culture, Richfield Press brings the personal touch that ensures those voices are preserved for generations.
14. City Bird Press
City Bird Press is a small, boutique publisher that thrives on creative, offbeat, and regional works. Their willingness to embrace unusual or niche projects makes them appealing for authors with unconventional manuscripts.
For writers who don’t fit into traditional molds, City Bird Press offers flexibility and enthusiasm for unique voices.
15. Cavankerry Press
Though not exclusive to Michigan, Cavankerry Press has a notable presence in the Midwest literary scene. They focus heavily on poetry and literary works, giving poets and literary writers a respected platform.
Their dedication to craft and artistry makes them an excellent choice for writers who want to share thought-provoking, high-quality literature.
16. Wayne Writers Press
Wayne Writers Press is a community-driven press that helps new authors break into the publishing world. Their catalog includes fiction, poetry, and essays, often by first-time writers eager to find their audience.
For those starting their literary journey, Wayne Writers Press offers encouragement and editorial guidance that larger presses may overlook.
17. Blackstone Publishing (Michigan Division)
Blackstone Publishing, a well-known name nationally, also operates within Michigan’s literary ecosystem. They combine the resources of a larger publishing company with an interest in local voices, particularly in genres like mystery, thriller, and general fiction.
Authors working with Blackstone benefit from wide distribution and professional marketing muscle, making them a strong contender for those who want a bigger reach.
18. Grey Wolfe Publishing
Grey Wolfe Publishing is a small press committed to helping independent authors find their footing. Their collaborative approach involves working closely with writers throughout editing, design, and distribution.
They’re a solid choice for indie authors who want personal attention paired with professional support.
19. Publish Savvy Press
Publish Savvy Press specializes in hybrid publishing solutions. They allow authors to maintain control while still accessing the editing, formatting, and marketing resources typically found in traditional publishing.
This approach empowers authors to self-publish with confidence, avoiding many of the pitfalls that come with going it alone.
20. Gale (Farmington Hills)
Headquartered in Farmington Hills, Gale is one of the biggest names in educational publishing and reference materials. While their focus is on academic and informational publishing, authors writing textbooks, research compilations, or educational resources will find Gale unmatched in distribution power.
21. Against the Grain Press
Against the Grain Press is dedicated to alternative voices that might not find a home in mainstream publishing. Their catalog includes socially conscious works, experimental writing, and cultural commentary.
Authors looking to challenge norms or explore bold ideas will appreciate the freedom this press provides.
22. New Issues Poetry & Prose
Affiliated with Western Michigan University, New Issues Poetry & Prose is a respected press specializing in poetry, short stories, and literary fiction. They’ve built a reputation for discovering and nurturing voices that go on to win national recognition.
For authors of literary works, this press provides credibility and a discerning readership.
23. Two Canoes Press
Two Canoes Press focuses on works that highlight the connection between nature, spirituality, and human experience. Their catalog often includes reflective nonfiction and inspirational writing rooted in the natural world.
Authors exploring themes of mindfulness, environment, or spirituality will find a supportive home here.
24. Bare Bones Press
Bare Bones Press takes a minimalist approach to publishing, focusing on lean, powerful works across poetry, essays, and short fiction. Their style is stripped-down but impactful, perfect for authors who want their words to stand on their own.
25. Black Lawrence Press
Black Lawrence Press is an independent literary press with a national reputation and a strong Midwest presence. They publish poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, and they’re known for supporting writers with daring, innovative voices.
For authors who want prestige without going through a major publisher, Black Lawrence is an excellent fit.
26. Painted Leaf Press
Painted Leaf Press specializes in regional titles that focus on Michigan life and culture. Their catalog includes memoirs, local history, and family-centered stories that resonate with Midwestern audiences.
This makes them a strong choice for authors whose manuscripts are deeply tied to place.
27. Fifth Avenue Press
Run by the Ann Arbor District Library, Fifth Avenue Press offers authors a unique, community-focused publishing model. They work closely with local writers to publish books that serve both readers and the wider Michigan literary scene.
Their emphasis on accessibility and local storytelling makes them a standout in community publishing.
28. Storytime Press
Storytime Press is a boutique publisher specializing in children’s literature. With an emphasis on imaginative storytelling and engaging illustrations, they’re a fantastic option for authors aiming to delight younger audiences.
Their focus on quality design and engaging narratives ensures that every book captures the magic of childhood reading.
29. Horizon Books Publishing
Horizon Books in Traverse City isn’t just a beloved bookstore—it also publishes regional authors. Their publishing arm gives local writers a platform to share stories that resonate with Michigan communities. It’s an intimate, grassroots way for authors to get published and connect directly with readers.
30. Mackinac Island Press
Mackinac Island Press specializes in children’s books, art, and regional titles. Their books often capture the beauty of Michigan’s iconic island, making them perfect for authors whose stories have a strong visual or cultural flair.
31. Midwest Press
Midwest Press, as its name suggests, highlights voices from the heart of America. Their catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, often with a regional perspective that celebrates Midwestern life.
32. Great Lakes Literary
Great Lakes Literary works with authors to showcase Michigan and the surrounding region’s stories. They focus on literary fiction, nonfiction, and memoir, making them ideal for authors who want to spotlight the voices of the Great Lakes.
33. Michigan Writers Cooperative Press
This cooperative press is run by and for writers. By pooling resources, they provide affordable publishing opportunities for Michigan authors. For writers who value collaboration and community, this model offers both support and shared success.
34. Front Street Press
Front Street Press publishes a wide variety of genres, from memoirs to fiction. They’re known for hands-on editorial work and attractive design, giving authors a professional final product.
35. Little Traverse Press
Located near Petoskey, Little Traverse Press highlights books that reflect the beauty, traditions, and people of Northern Michigan. Their catalog often includes local histories and personal narratives.
36. Red Oak Press
Red Oak Press focuses heavily on poetry, essays, and literary works. They’re a great choice for authors with a passion for reflective or experimental writing that digs deep into human experience.
37. Story House Publishing
Story House Publishing takes a personalized approach, helping authors create memoirs, family histories, and children’s stories. Their mission is to preserve stories that might otherwise go untold.
38. Superior Books
As the name suggests, Superior Books focuses on the Upper Peninsula and Lake Superior region. They publish local histories, travel narratives, and regional nonfiction that celebrates Michigan’s northernmost stories.
39. Harbor House Press
Harbor House Press combines regional storytelling with professional publishing standards. Their catalog includes fiction and nonfiction that speak to Michigan life but with appeal beyond the state.
40. Ann Arbor Press
Ann Arbor Press has a long history of publishing regional authors. They’ve built a reputation for high-quality production and approachable editorial processes, making them a reliable option for first-time and seasoned authors alike.
41. Wolverine Press
Wolverine Press champions indie authors with bold, original works. They’re open to multiple genres and are especially welcoming to authors looking for more creative freedom than traditional houses offer.
42. Cherry Lane Press
Cherry Lane Press specializes in children’s books, family-centered stories, and wholesome fiction. Their approachable catalog is great for writers who want to connect with readers of all ages.
43. Marquette Press
Marquette Press has a strong emphasis on U.P. culture and history. They publish local nonfiction, memoirs, and cultural studies, making them a favorite for authors exploring the richness of the north.
44. Rivertown Books
Rivertown Books is a small but passionate press that highlights regional fiction and nonfiction. Their strength lies in capturing Michigan’s communities through storytelling.
45. Copper Harbor Press
Located near Lake Superior, Copper Harbor Press is known for supporting independent authors with unique stories. They often publish works that celebrate Michigan’s environment and people.
46. Pine Lake Press
Pine Lake Press focuses on emerging authors, particularly in fiction and poetry. Their catalog is eclectic but united by a dedication to fresh, authentic voices.
47. Traverse Press
Traverse Press highlights books that connect with travel, lifestyle, and regional nonfiction. For authors writing about Michigan experiences, this press is an excellent match.
48. North Shore Press
North Shore Press celebrates the history, culture, and beauty of the Great Lakes. They publish a mix of nonfiction and illustrated works that capture Michigan’s natural richness.
49. Bay City Press
Bay City Press works with local authors to publish memoirs, fiction, and histories. They’re known for their approachable, author-friendly publishing model.
50. Blue Water Publishing
Blue Water Publishing draws inspiration from Michigan’s waterways. Their catalog includes regional nonfiction, children’s stories, and poetry, all tied to the beauty of the state.
51. Silver Birch Press
Silver Birch Press specializes in literary works, including anthologies, poetry, and short story collections. They have a supportive approach to emerging voices, making them attractive to new authors.
52. Stoneboat Press
Stoneboat Press emphasizes quality writing and strong storytelling. Their catalog is diverse, ranging from fiction to creative nonfiction, with a focus on works that leave a lasting impact.
53. Old Mission Press
Old Mission Press is dedicated to historical works and cultural preservation. They publish books that document Michigan’s traditions, communities, and heritage, making them a vital resource for authors of regional nonfiction.
54. Whispering Pines Press
Whispering Pines Press publishes works that lean toward the inspirational and heartwarming. Their catalog often includes children’s literature, family stories, and gentle narratives with universal appeal.
55. Lansing Press
Lansing Press provides a platform for writers across genres, from nonfiction to poetry. Their publishing process is collaborative, ensuring authors feel supported at every stage.
56. Beacon Hill Press
Beacon Hill Press closes our list as a boutique publisher focused on uplifting voices in fiction, nonfiction, and inspirational writing. They’re committed to giving authors the tools to share their stories with pride.
Why Michigan Stands Out in the Publishing World
Michigan’s publishing industry is thriving in 2025 because it offers diversity, innovation, and community spirit. From academic presses with international prestige to indie publishers passionate about local voices, the state has a publisher for every kind of author.
Most importantly, writers today have more choices than ever. Whether you’re chasing literary prestige, regional authenticity, or independent creative freedom, Michigan publishers are ready to help your words reach readers.
And let’s not forget—if you want a full-service publishing experience that goes beyond traditional houses, Bestseller Ghostwriting is your go-to partner. They combine professional ghostwriting, editing, design, and marketing into one seamless process, ensuring your book isn’t just published—it’s positioned for success.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to publish your book is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as an author. Michigan offers an impressive range of publishers, from the academic prestige of Wayne State University Press to the regional storytelling magic of Painted Turtle Press and the creative freedom of indie publishers like Dzanc Books.
But if you’re looking for more than just a publisher—if you want a true partner who helps with every stage from idea to marketing—Bestseller Ghostwriting is the standout choice. They don’t just help you publish a book. They help you build a legacy as an author.
In 2025, Michigan remains a publishing powerhouse. The only question is: which press will you trust with your story?
