Independent Publishers Group is adding five publishers to its sales and distribution programs:
One Peace Books, Long Island City, N.Y., founded by Japanese publisher Sanctuary Books in 2006 to translate and publish Japanese entertainment and literature, including manga, light novels and literary works, for a North American audience. Its major titles include The Rising of the Shield Hero, which has sold more than a million copies in the U.S. and more than 11 million copies worldwide, and I Hear the Sunspot, which was nominated a Best Graphic Novel for Teens by the American Library Association. (Worldwide print distribution, beginning January 1, 2026.)
Apex Book Company, which publishes dark fiction from a diverse collection of talented writers. Apex says its publishing program "can be summarized in four words: Strange, Surreal, Shocking, and Beautiful. They produce books that will open your mind to worlds beyond ours, expand your way of thinking, and take you on a journey." (Distribution beginning August 1.)
SHP, which publishes "genre-bending stories combining horror, science fiction, adventure, and reimagined classics into daring, intelligent and unique comic books and graphic novels." Founded by Shawn Hainsworth in 2021, SHP features the work of many up and coming artists. (Worldwide distribution, beginning August 1.)
Sam and Mi, which publishes books for children up to age eight that have themes of empathy, problem solving, and communication. When introduced at an early age, these skills can contribute to a happy and successful life, the company believes. Its books are based on research and trials with children, and the stories are built through playful text and supported by beautiful illustrations. (Worldwide distribution, beginning August 1.)
Measure Publishing, a new publisher that hold the rights to Unfailing Hope by Pope Francis, his final published work. The book has already been released in Italy, Spain, and Latin America, and is now in the final stages of preparation for the English-language market. (Distribution beginning August 1.)