Arcade Publishing, a name recognized in the book world, has a history that traces a path from an independent publishing house to becoming an imprint under a larger corporate umbrella. Founded in 1988 by the husband-and-wife team Richard and Jeannette Seaver, Arcade Publishing initially carved out its niche as an independent publisher of both trade fiction and nonfiction. This early period was characterized by its autonomy and the personal vision of its founders,
who aimed to bring diverse literary works to the public.
The Founding and Early Independence
Richard Seaver and Jeannette Seaver established Arcade Publishing in 1988, setting it up as an independent company. Their focus was on trade fiction and nonfiction, meaning they published books intended for a general readership and sold through retail channels. This independent status allowed them to cultivate a distinct catalog and editorial direction, free from the immediate pressures or broader strategies of a larger publishing conglomerate.
During its time as an independent entity, Arcade Publishing was known for its curated selection of books. The founders' personal involvement in the acquisition and publication process was a defining characteristic. This hands-on approach is often a hallmark of independent publishers, allowing for a more focused and sometimes more adventurous editorial line compared to larger, more commercially driven houses.
Challenges, Bankruptcy, and Acquisition
However, the journey of Arcade Publishing was not without its significant challenges. Following the death of co-founder Richard Seaver in 2009, the company faced considerable difficulties, ultimately leading to its declaration of bankruptcy. This period marked a critical turning point for the publisher, as the loss of one of its key figures and the subsequent financial distress threatened its continued existence as an independent entity.
In 2010, a year after Richard Seaver's passing and the company's bankruptcy, Arcade Publishing was acquired by Skyhorse Publishing. This acquisition signaled the end of Arcade's era as a fully independent house. The following year, in 2011, Skyhorse Publishing relaunched Arcade, integrating it into its own operations as an imprint. This transition meant that while the Arcade name continued, its operational and financial independence had ceased, becoming part of a larger publishing group.
Relaunch and Continued Legacy
Post-acquisition, Arcade Publishing continued its work, now as an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing. The relaunch in 2011 aimed to maintain the legacy and editorial spirit of the original company while benefiting from the resources and infrastructure of its new parent company. Jeannette Seaver, one of the original founders, remained involved, serving as a consulting editor. In this role, she contributes to the acquisition and curation of upcoming lists, helping to guide the imprint's future publications.
Beyond its main list, Arcade also expanded its offerings to include "Arcade Artists & Art," a specialized series. This series focuses on books by and about artists, with a particular emphasis on the modern period. The imprint has also seen success with specific titles, such as Miklos Nyiszli's "Auschwitz," which became a New York Times bestseller in 2011. Furthermore, Arcade has published several works by the Albanian author Ismail Kadare, including titles like "Elegy for Kosovo," "The Successor," and "The Pyramid," showcasing a continued commitment to diverse and significant literary voices.
