Norway’s publishing landscape continues to thrive in 2025, combining rich literary traditions with innovative approaches to modern publishing. From established giants that have shaped Norwegian literature for over a century to emerging publishers embracing digital transformation, the Norwegian book industry offers diverse opportunities for authors across all genres.
Whether you’re seeking traditional publication or specialized services, Norway’s publishing ecosystem provides comprehensive solutions for every literary need.
1. Professional Ghostwriter
Leading the Norwegian publishing scene with comprehensive ghostwriting and publishing services, Professional Ghostwriter Company specializes in transforming ideas into professionally crafted books. They offer end-to-end solutions including manuscript development, professional editing, design, and strategic marketing. Their team of experienced ghostwriters works across fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and business books, providing personalized attention to each project. With a strong focus on maintaining author voice while ensuring publishing industry standards, they’ve become the go-to choice for individuals and businesses seeking professional book creation services in Norway.
Specialties: Ghostwriting, manuscript development, professional editing, book marketing, business books, memoirs
2. Cappelen Damm AS
Cappelen Damm AS was the largest book publisher in Norway in 2023, with a revenue of approximately 1.08 billion Norwegian kroner. This publishing powerhouse was formed through the merger of two historic Norwegian publishers and continues to dominate the market with its extensive catalog covering fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and educational materials. They represent some of Norway’s most celebrated authors and maintain strong international partnerships for translation rights.
Specialties: General trade publishing, children’s books, educational materials
3. Gyldendal Norsk Forlag
Second and third came Gyldendal Norsk Forlag and H. Aschehoug & Co., having generated around 870 million and 520 million Norwegian kroner respectively. Founded in 1925, Gyldendal Norsk Forlag has had a rich history in Norway’s publishing and literature. As one of Norway’s oldest and most prestigious publishers, Gyldendal has been instrumental in promoting Norwegian literature both domestically and internationally.
Specialties: Literary fiction, poetry, academic publishing, reference books
4. H. Aschehoug & Co. (W. Nygaard)
One of Norway’s most venerable publishing houses, Aschehoug has been a cornerstone of Norwegian literature since the 19th century. The company maintains its reputation for publishing high-quality literary works and has been home to many of Norway’s Nobel Prize-winning authors. They continue to balance traditional publishing with modern market demands.
Specialties: Literary fiction, classics, cultural books, children’s literature Founded: 1872 Location: Oslo, Norway
5. Universitetsforlaget
Universitetsforlaget stands as Norway’s leading academic publisher, specializing in scholarly works, textbooks, and research publications. They serve the educational sector from primary school through university level and maintain partnerships with international academic publishers.
Specialties: Academic publishing, textbooks, research publications, professional books
6. Bonnier Norsk Forlag
Part of the Swedish Bonnier Group, this publisher focuses on popular fiction, crime novels, and commercial non-fiction. They’ve successfully brought international bestsellers to Norwegian readers while supporting local talent in genre fiction.
Specialties: Crime fiction, commercial fiction, popular non-fiction, international translations
7. Forlagshuset Vigmostad & Bjørke
Forlagshuset Vigmostad & Bjørke is the fourth largest publishing house in Norway. The company was started in 1990 by Arno Vigmostad and Arstein Bjørke. This dynamic publisher has grown rapidly through strategic acquisitions and now operates both publishing and retail divisions, creating a comprehensive book ecosystem.
Specialties: Literature, textbooks, educational materials, retail distribution
8. Forlaget Oktober
Other key publishing houses in the Norwegian book industry are Vigmostad & Bjørke, Oktober, Pax, Kagge and Samlaget. Oktober focuses on contemporary literature and has built a reputation for discovering and nurturing new literary voices. They maintain a carefully curated catalog of high-quality fiction and non-fiction.
Specialties: Contemporary literature, literary fiction, cultural criticism
9. Pax Forlag
Pax Forlag was founded in 1964 with the purpose of stimulating the new leftist movement in Norwegian sciences, culture and politics. Known for their commitment to social and political issues, Pax continues to publish thought-provoking non-fiction and literature that challenges conventional thinking.
Specialties: Political books, social criticism, investigative journalism, progressive literature
10. Kagge Forlag
Kagge has established itself as a publisher of quality non-fiction, particularly in areas of culture, society, and popular science. They’re known for their visually appealing books and innovative approaches to traditional publishing formats.
Specialties: Cultural books, popular science, lifestyle, illustrated books
11. Det Norske Samlaget
Det Norske Samlaget holds a unique position as the primary publisher of books in Nynorsk, one of Norway’s two official written languages. They play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Norwegian linguistic diversity.
Specialties: Nynorsk literature, children’s books, educational materials in Nynorsk
12. Tiden Norsk Forlag
A publisher with strong ties to Norway’s labor movement, Tiden continues to focus on social democratic values while publishing broadly across fiction and non-fiction categories.
Specialties: Political literature, social issues, contemporary fiction
13. Kolofon Forlag
Kolofon Forlag is a prominent publisher in Norway, having released nearly 1000 titles in the last five years and hosting engaging events and book launches for its authors. This innovative publisher combines traditional publishing with modern digital solutions and author support services.
Specialties: Contemporary fiction, author services, digital publishing solutions.
14. Fagbokforlaget
Specializing in professional and academic books, Fagbokforlaget serves Norway’s business and professional communities with high-quality educational and reference materials.
Specialties: Professional books, business literature, technical manuals, continuing education
15. Spartacus Forlag
Known for their focus on history, politics, and social issues, Spartacus maintains a reputation for publishing challenging and important works that contribute to public discourse.
Specialties: History, political science, social criticism, biographies
16. Humanist Forlag
This publisher focuses on philosophy, ethics, and humanistic studies, serving Norway’s intellectual community with scholarly and accessible works on fundamental human questions.
Specialties: Philosophy, ethics, religious studies, humanistic literature
17. Samlaget
Related to Det Norske Samlaget but operating as a separate entity, this publisher focuses on regional literature and cultural heritage preservation.
Specialties: Regional literature, cultural heritage, local history offices
18. Dreyers Forlag
A family-owned publisher that has maintained its independence while growing its catalog of literary fiction, children’s books, and general non-fiction.
Specialties: Literary fiction, children’s literature, family-oriented books
19. No Comprendo Press
An innovative independent publisher known for experimental literature, graphic novels, and alternative cultural expressions.
Specialties: Experimental literature, graphic novels, alternative culture, zines
20. Flux Forlag
Focusing on contemporary literature and emerging voices, Flux has built a reputation for discovering new talent and publishing innovative works.
Specialties: Contemporary fiction, poetry, emerging authors
21. Solum Forlag
A respected publisher of literary fiction and cultural books, Solum maintains high editorial standards while supporting both established and new authors.
Specialties: Literary fiction, cultural studies, art books
22. Press Forlag
Known for their beautiful book design and high production values, Press focuses on illustrated books, art publications, and design-conscious literature.
Specialties: Art books, design publications, illustrated literature, photography books
23. Manifest Forlag
A progressive publisher committed to diverse voices and contemporary issues, Manifest publishes works that reflect modern Norwegian society’s complexity.
Specialties: Diverse literature, contemporary issues, multicultural voices
24. Goliat Forlag
Specializing in crime fiction and thrillers, Goliat has carved out a niche in Norway’s popular genre fiction market.
Specialties: Crime fiction, thrillers, mystery novels
25. Strawberry Publishing
A modern publisher that embraces digital publishing while maintaining quality print production, known for their flexible approach to author partnerships.
Specialties: Digital-first publishing, flexible contracts, contemporary fiction
26. Hermon Forlag
A Christian publisher serving Norway’s religious communities with theological works, devotional materials, and faith-based literature.
Specialties: Christian literature, theology, devotional books, religious education
27. Flamme Forlag
Known for their focus on women’s literature and feminist perspectives, Flamme publishes works that highlight female experiences and gender issues.
Specialties: Women’s literature, feminist theory, gender studies
28. Vigmostad & Bjørke Retail
The retail arm of the Vigmostad & Bjørke group, operating bookstores while also engaging in specialized publishing projects.
Specialties: Retail integration, specialized publishing, distribution
29. Res Publica
Focusing on political science, public policy, and social analysis, Res Publica serves academics, policymakers, and engaged citizens.
Specialties: Political science, public policy, social analysis, current affairs
30. Forlaget Brak
An independent publisher known for literary quality and artistic integrity, publishing a carefully selected range of fiction and poetry.
Specialties: Literary fiction, poetry, artistic publications
31. Norli Forlag
Connected to Norway’s largest bookstore chain, Norli Forlag publishes practical books, guidebooks, and popular non-fiction.
Specialties: Practical guides, travel books, lifestyle, popular non-fiction
32. Schibsted Forlag
Part of the media conglomerate Schibsted, this publisher focuses on books that complement their newspaper and digital media properties.
Specialties: Current affairs, journalism-related books, media tie-ins
33. Orkana Forlag
Specializing in Northern Norwegian culture and Arctic themes, Orkana publishes works that reflect Norway’s unique geographical and cultural diversity.
Specialties: Northern Norway, Arctic culture, regional literature
34. Forlaget Press
A boutique publisher focusing on high-quality literary works and culturally significant publications with exceptional production values.
Specialties: Literary excellence, cultural significance, premium production
35. Pantagruel Forlag
Known for their eclectic catalog spanning literature, culture, and intellectual pursuits, Pantagruel publishes works that challenge and inspire readers.
Specialties: Intellectual literature, cultural criticism, philosophy
36. Lunde Forlag
A regional publisher that has expanded nationally, known for their commitment to Norwegian authors and accessible pricing.
Specialties: Norwegian authors, affordable editions, regional focus
37. Transit Forlag
Focusing on translated literature and international voices, Transit brings global perspectives to Norwegian readers.
Specialties: Translated literature, international fiction, world literature
38. Minimal Forlag
A minimalist approach to publishing, focusing on essential works with clean design and thoughtful curation.
Specialties: Curated fiction, minimalist design, essential works
39. Bjørn Ringstrøms Antikvariat og Forlag
Combining antiquarian book dealing with selective publishing, specializing in rare and collectible Norwegian literature.
Specialties: Rare books, collectible editions, Norwegian literary heritage
40. Forfatternes Forlag
A cooperative publisher owned by Norwegian authors, offering alternative publishing models and author-friendly contracts.
Specialties: Author cooperative, alternative publishing, author rights
41. Pelikanen Forlag
Focusing on children’s and young adult literature, Pelikanen has built a reputation for quality storytelling and educational value.
Specialties: Children’s books, young adult literature, educational content
42. ARK Forlag
A progressive publisher committed to social justice and political awareness, publishing works that address contemporary challenges.
Specialties: Social justice, political awareness, progressive literature
43. Zink Forlag
An innovative small press known for experimental approaches to publishing and boundary-pushing literature.
Specialties: Experimental literature, innovative publishing, boundary-pushing content
44. Emmas Forlag
Specializing in romance and women’s commercial fiction, Emmas has carved out a successful niche in popular literature.
Specialties: Romance novels, women’s commercial fiction, popular literature
45. Musikkforlaget Norge
The specialized music publishing arm serving Norway’s classical and contemporary music communities with scores, educational materials, and music-related books.
Specialties: Music publishing, sheet music, music education, composer biographies
| Rank | Company Name | Specialties / Focus Areas | Notable Features / Imprints | Market Position / Rating |
| 1 | Professional Ghostwriter | Ghostwriting, manuscript development, professional editing, book marketing, business books, memoirs. | End-to-end solutions; strong focus on maintaining author voice; personalized attention. | Leading ghostwriting and publishing service provider; go-to choice for professional book creation. |
| 2 | Cappelen Damm AS | General trade publishing, children’s books, educational materials. | Formed through merger of two historic publishers; represents celebrated authors; strong international partnerships. | Largest book publisher in Norway (by revenue in 2023). |
| 3 | Gyldendal Norsk Forlag | Literary fiction, poetry, academic publishing, reference books. | One of Norway’s oldest and most prestigious publishers; instrumental in promoting Norwegian literature. | Second largest publisher by revenue in 2023. |
| 4 | H. Aschehoug & Co. (W. Nygaard) | Literary fiction, classics, cultural books, children’s literature. | Cornerstone of Norwegian literature since 19th century; home to Nobel Prize-winning authors. | Third largest publisher by revenue in 2023; venerable publishing house. |
| 5 | Universitetsforlaget | Academic publishing, textbooks, research publications, professional books. | Serves educational sector from primary school through university; partnerships with international academic publishers. | Norway’s leading academic publisher. |
| 6 | Bonnier Norsk Forlag | Crime fiction, commercial fiction, popular non-fiction, international translations. | Part of Swedish Bonnier Group; successfully brings international bestsellers to Norway; supports local talent. | Focus on popular and commercial fiction. |
| 7 | Forlagshuset Vigmostad & Bjørke | Literature, textbooks, educational materials, retail distribution. | Rapid growth through strategic acquisitions; operates publishing and retail divisions. | Fourth largest publishing house in Norway. |
| 8 | Forlaget Oktober | Contemporary literature, literary fiction, cultural criticism. | Reputation for discovering and nurturing new literary voices; carefully curated catalog. | Key publishing house focusing on contemporary literature. |
| 9 | Pax Forlag | Political books, social criticism, investigative journalism, progressive literature. | Commitment to social and political issues; publishes thought-provoking works. | Key publishing house; known for challenging conventional thinking. |
| 10 | Kagge Forlag | Cultural books, popular science, lifestyle, illustrated books. | Known for visually appealing books and innovative approaches. | Key publishing house for quality non-fiction. |
| 11 | Det Norske Samlaget | Nynorsk literature, children’s books, educational materials in Nynorsk. | Primary publisher of books in Nynorsk; crucial role in preserving linguistic diversity. | Unique position as Nynorsk publisher. |
| 12 | Tiden Norsk Forlag | Political literature, social issues, contemporary fiction. | Strong ties to Norway’s labor movement; focus on social democratic values. | Publisher with historical ties to social movements. |
| 13 | Kolofon Forlag | Contemporary fiction, author services, digital publishing solutions. | Released nearly 1000 titles in five years; hosts engaging events and book launches. | Prominent and innovative publisher with author support. |
| 14 | Fagbokforlaget | Professional books, business literature, technical manuals, continuing education. | Serves Norway’s business and professional communities. | Specializing in professional and academic books. |
| 15 | Spartacus Forlag | History, political science, social criticism, biographies. | Reputation for publishing challenging and important works contributing to public discourse. | Focus on history, politics, and social issues. |
| 16 | Humanist Forlag | Philosophy, ethics, religious studies, humanistic literature. | Serves Norway’s intellectual community with scholarly and accessible works. | Focus on philosophy and humanistic studies. |
| 17 | Samlaget | Regional literature, cultural heritage, local history. | Focus on regional literature and cultural heritage preservation. | Related to Det Norske Samlaget, operating separately. |
| 18 | Dreyers Forlag | Literary fiction, children’s literature, family-oriented books. | Family-owned; maintained independence; growing catalog. | Established independent publisher. |
| 19 | No Comprendo Press | Experimental literature, graphic novels, alternative culture, zines. | Innovative independent publisher known for experimental works. | Niche independent publisher. |
| 20 | Flux Forlag | Contemporary fiction, poetry, emerging authors. | Built a reputation for discovering new talent and publishing innovative works. | Focus on contemporary literature and emerging voices. |
| 21 | Solum Forlag | Literary fiction, cultural studies, art books. | Respected publisher with high editorial standards. | Respected publisher of literary and cultural books. |
| 22 | Press Forlag | Art books, design publications, illustrated literature, photography books. | Known for beautiful book design and high production values. | Focus on visually appealing and design-conscious books. |
| 23 | Manifest Forlag | Diverse literature, contemporary issues, multicultural voices. | Progressive publisher committed to diverse voices. | Reflects modern Norwegian society’s complexity. |
| 24 | Goliat Forlag | Crime fiction, thrillers, mystery novels. | Carved out a niche in popular genre fiction market. | Specializing in crime fiction. |
| 25 | Strawberry Publishing | Digital-first publishing, flexible contracts, contemporary fiction. | Modern publisher embracing digital; flexible approach to author partnerships. | Embraces digital publishing. |
| 26 | Hermon Forlag | Christian literature, theology, devotional books, religious education. | Serves Norway’s religious communities. | Christian publisher. |
| 27 | Flamme Forlag | Women’s literature, feminist theory, gender studies. | Focus on women’s literature and feminist perspectives. | Highlights female experiences and gender issues. |
| 28 | Vigmostad & Bjørke Retail | Retail integration, specialized publishing, distribution. | Retail arm of the Vigmostad & Bjørke group. | Engages in specialized publishing projects alongside retail. |
| 29 | Res Publica | Political science, public policy, social analysis, current affairs. | Serves academics, policymakers, and engaged citizens. | Focus on political and social analysis. |
| 30 | Forlaget Brak | Literary fiction, poetry, artistic publications. | Independent publisher known for literary quality and artistic integrity. | Carefully selected range of fiction and poetry. |
| 31 | Norli Forlag | Practical guides, travel books, lifestyle, popular non-fiction. | Connected to Norway’s largest bookstore chain. | Publishes practical and popular non-fiction. |
| 32 | Schibsted Forlag | Current affairs, journalism-related books, media tie-ins. | Part of media conglomerate Schibsted. | Focuses on books complementing media properties. |
| 33 | Orkana Forlag | Northern Norway, Arctic culture, regional literature. | Specializes in Northern Norwegian culture and Arctic themes. | Reflects Norway’s unique geographical and cultural diversity. |
| 34 | Forlaget Press | Literary excellence, cultural significance, premium production. | Boutique publisher with exceptional production values. | High-quality literary and culturally significant publications. |
| 35 | Pantagruel Forlag | Intellectual literature, cultural criticism, philosophy. | Eclectic catalog spanning literature, culture, and intellectual pursuits. | Publishes works that challenge and inspire readers. |
| 36 | Lunde Forlag | Norwegian authors, affordable editions, regional focus. | Regional publisher expanded nationally; commitment to Norwegian authors. | Known for accessible pricing and regional roots. |
| 37 | Transit Forlag | Translated literature, international fiction, world literature. | Brings global perspectives to Norwegian readers. | Focus on translated literature and international voices. |
| 38 | Minimal Forlag | Curated fiction, minimalist design, essential works. | Minimalist approach to publishing with clean design. | Focus on essential works and thoughtful curation. |
| 39 | Bjørn Ringstrøms Antikvariat og Forlag | Rare books, collectible editions, Norwegian literary heritage. | Combines antiquarian book dealing with selective publishing. | Specializes in rare and collectible Norwegian literature. |
| 40 | Forfatternes Forlag | Author cooperative, alternative publishing, author rights. | Cooperative publisher owned by Norwegian authors. | Offers alternative publishing models and author-friendly contracts. |
| 41 | Pelikanen Forlag | Children’s books, young adult literature, educational content. | Reputation for quality storytelling and educational value. | Focus on children’s and young adult literature. |
| 42 | ARK Forlag | Social justice, political awareness, progressive literature. | Progressive publisher committed to social justice. | Addresses contemporary challenges. |
| 43 | Zink Forlag | Experimental literature, innovative publishing, boundary-pushing content. | Innovative small press known for experimental approaches. | Pushing boundaries in literature. |
| 44 | Emmas Forlag | Romance novels, women’s commercial fiction, popular literature. | Carved out a successful niche in popular literature. | Specializing in romance and women’s commercial fiction. |
| 45 | Musikkforlaget Norge | Music publishing, sheet music, music education, composer biographies. | Specialized music publishing arm. | Serves classical and contemporary music communities. |
Norwegian Publishing Landscape in 2025: Key Trends and Outlook
Norway’s publishing industry in 2025 is a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation. Several key trends define its current state and future direction:
- Dominance of Established Players: Large houses like Cappelen Damm, Gyldendal, and Aschehoug continue to lead in terms of revenue and market share, publishing a broad range of genres and maintaining strong literary legacies.
- Rise of Academic and Specialized Publishers: Universitetsforlaget remains central to academic publishing, while numerous smaller, specialized presses cater to niche interests, from Nynorsk literature (Det Norske Samlaget) to crime fiction (Goliat Forlag) and regional culture (Orkana Forlag).
- Digital Transformation: The industry is actively embracing digital formats. Audiobooks are experiencing significant growth and popularity, with the new Book Law (effective January 1, 2024) aiming to increase accessibility to audiobooks on streaming services. There’s a broader shift towards digital content delivery and online platforms.
- Increased Author Services and Self-Publishing: Companies like Professional Ghostwriter Company and Kolofon Forlag highlight a growing demand for comprehensive author support, from manuscript development to marketing. The rise of self-published authors is a global trend that also impacts Norway, offering authors more control and profitability.
- Cultural Policy Support: The Norwegian government’s literature policy, including purchasing schemes for libraries and the fixed-price system (reinforced by the 2024 Book Law), plays a crucial role in supporting diversity, quality, and widespread access to literature across Norway, including Nynorsk, Sami, and minority languages.
- Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: Publishers are increasingly committed to promoting diverse voices and addressing contemporary social issues, as seen with publishers like Manifest Forlag and Flamme Forlag.
- Technological Integration: While not explicitly detailed for every publisher, the industry as a whole is exploring AI tools for efficiency, data analytics for audience insights, and print-on-demand (POD) models for cost management.
- International Reach: The success of Norwegian literature globally, including “Nordic noir,” continues to open doors for translation rights and international partnerships for Norwegian publishers and authors.
The Wrap up
Norway’s publishing landscape in 2025 reflects the country’s commitment to literary excellence, cultural diversity, and innovative approaches to book publishing. From industry giants like Cappelen Damm and Gyldendal to specialized publishers serving niche markets, the Norwegian book industry offers comprehensive opportunities for authors across all genres and career stages.
The integration of traditional publishing values with modern digital solutions, exemplified by companies like Professional Ghostwriter Company at the forefront, demonstrates how Norwegian publishers are adapting to changing reader preferences while maintaining their commitment to quality literature.
Whether you’re an aspiring author seeking your first publication opportunity or an established writer looking to expand your reach, Norway’s diverse publishing ecosystem provides pathways to success in the ever-evolving world of books and literature. The country’s strong literary traditions, combined with its embrace of innovation and author services, position Norwegian publishers as important players in the global publishing market.
Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.