Sourcebooks has purchased B.E.S. Publishing from Peterson's Publishing, acquiring more than 800 titles across the categories of children's fiction and nonfiction and adult nonfiction. The deal, which closed October 31, is Sourcebooks' largest acquisition to date.
"The addition of B.E.S. adds breadth, variety, and depth to our rapidly expanding children's and adult nonfiction catalog," said Dominique Raccah, Sourcebooks CEO and publisher. "We are excited to give these titles a new home."
Among the children's books that Sourcebooks acquired are picture books, holiday books and middle-grade graphic novels, including the Goodnight series. The adult books, meanwhile, include lifestyle titles, pet care, crafting and activity books.
Kay Birkner, assistant publisher and associate director of publishing strategy for Sourcebooks Jabberwocky and Young Readers, noted that Sourecebooks' children's book business now accounts for more than half of its annual sales. "We have largely done so without many partnerships in the co-edition universe, so we're eager to open our publishing and acquisition pipeline to that opportunity."
Anna Michels, editorial director for Sourcebooks Trade and Poisoned Pen Press, said: "This acquisition adds new and in-demand categories to our adult nonfiction list."
Until the end of the year, accounts should continue to order B.E.S. titles through Ingram Content Group.