Today's Read Contributor The week of July 14 marked a dynamic moment in the U.S. publishing landscape, with high-impact author acquisitions, imprint launches, and strong sales performances pointing to evolving reader demand and industry strategy.
Bora Chung Returns with Algonquin Books
One of the most talked-about announcements came from Algonquin Books, which confirmed a renewed deal with acclaimed Korean author Bora Chung, best known for her speculative fiction breakout Cursed Bunny. The new agreement includes her upcoming novel and retains celebrated translator Anton Hur, a move praised by literary critics for its cultural and linguistic continuity.
The partnership highlights the sustained rise of international literature in U.S. markets, echoing the 2024 Booker Prize shortlist that featured several translated works.
Medill Books: New Imprint on the Block
Another headline-maker was the launch of Medill Books, a nonfiction imprint from Agate Publishing in collaboration with Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. The imprint will focus on longform investigations and narrative journalism, starting with titles from award-winning reporters covering health, technology, and social justice. Its debut slate is scheduled for late 2026.
Bestsellers Reflect Genre Diversity
On the commercial front, the hardcover fiction list saw Brad Thor’s latest Scot Harvath thriller debut at number two, continuing the author’s 15-year streak on bestseller charts. Meanwhile, the paperback resurgence of Chris Whitaker’s All the Colors of the Dark, boosted by its 2024 “Read with Jenna” feature, remains strong.
Romantasy—a hybrid of romance and fantasy—also continued to thrive, with two new entrants hitting top-ten spots on the charts. Analysts suggest this trend may define the second half of 2025, driven by TikTok-driven discovery and serialized storytelling appeal.
A Market in Balance
From translated literary fiction to high-concept thrillers and multimedia imprints, the week illustrates an industry at the intersection of innovation and tradition. Publishers appear increasingly agile, blending niche literary risk-taking with mainstream market instincts.
