Blackstone Publishing: A New Era of Audiobooks and Strategic Partnerships
August 8, 2024, 11:14 pm
In the ever-evolving landscape of publishing, Blackstone Publishing is making waves. With two recent announcements, the company is not just keeping pace; it’s setting the tempo. The first announcement involves a partnership with Penguin Random House Audio, while the second introduces a strategic co-publication alliance with Scribd’s Everand. Both moves signal a commitment to innovation and accessibility in the audiobook and publishing sectors.
Blackstone Publishing, based in Ashland, Oregon, has carved a niche for itself as a powerhouse in the audiobook market. Founded in 1987, it has grown into one of America’s fastest-growing publishing houses. The company boasts a catalog filled with New York Times bestsellers and Grammy Award-winning audio productions. Now, with its latest deal with Penguin Random House Audio, Blackstone is extending its reach even further.
The partnership with Penguin Random House Audio allows Blackstone to manufacture and distribute select titles as CDs on demand. This is a significant move, especially for library customers and retail outlets. In a world increasingly dominated by digital formats, the demand for physical audiobooks remains. Many listeners still cherish the tactile experience of CDs. Blackstone recognizes this and is stepping up to meet that demand.
The curated selection includes works from bestselling authors like Ali Hazelwood and Jesse Q. Sutanto. For many of these titles, this marks their first appearance on CD. This partnership is not just about expanding product offerings; it’s about enhancing the listening experience. Audiobooks are more than just stories; they are an escape, a journey. By providing physical formats, Blackstone is ensuring that these journeys remain accessible to all.
Anne Fonteneau, Chief Sales Officer of Blackstone Publishing, emphasized the importance of this partnership. The goal is clear: to deliver high-quality audiobooks to a broader audience. This is not merely a business transaction; it’s a mission to connect listeners with compelling narratives. The partnership with Penguin Random House Audio is a step toward achieving that mission.
But Blackstone isn’t stopping there. The company has also announced a strategic co-publication partnership with Everand, a part of Scribd, Inc. This collaboration aims to release both timely and timeless nonfiction through Everand’s Originals digital publishing program. Blackstone will oversee manufacturing and distribution across all formats, including print, ebook, and audiobook sales channels.
This partnership is a fusion of strengths. Blackstone brings its established publishing capabilities, while Everand offers a digital platform that caters to modern readers. Together, they aim to amplify diverse voices and innovative ideas. This is a crucial step in a publishing landscape that often favors the mainstream. By championing unique narratives, they can cultivate a richer literary culture.
The inaugural title from this partnership, "THREE KINGS: Race, Class, and the Barrier-Breaking Rivals Who Redefined Sports and Launched the Modern Olympic Age," is set to release on July 2, 2024. This book, by New York Times bestselling author Todd Balf, explores a legendary sports rivalry against the backdrop of the 1924 Paris Olympics. It’s a story that resonates with themes of competition, achievement, and national identity. The timing of its release aligns perfectly with the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games, making it a timely addition to the literary landscape.
This collaboration is not just about books; it’s about creating a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. The partnership reflects a shared passion for experimentation and innovation. In a world where content consumption is rapidly changing, Blackstone and Everand are positioning themselves at the forefront of this evolution.
The digital age has transformed how we consume stories. Audiobooks, ebooks, and print books all have their place. Blackstone’s strategy acknowledges this diversity. By offering multiple formats, they cater to different preferences. Some readers want the convenience of digital; others crave the nostalgia of a physical book. Blackstone is ensuring that no one is left behind.
As the publishing industry continues to shift, partnerships like these are vital. They represent a commitment to quality and accessibility. Blackstone Publishing is not just adapting; it’s thriving. By collaborating with industry leaders like Penguin Random House Audio and Scribd, they are setting a standard for others to follow.
In conclusion, Blackstone Publishing is charting a bold course in the world of audiobooks and publishing. With its recent partnerships, the company is poised to enhance the listening experience for audiences everywhere. By embracing both traditional and modern formats, Blackstone is ensuring that stories continue to resonate. The future looks bright for this innovative publisher. As they continue to expand their reach, one thing is clear: Blackstone is a name to watch in the literary world.
Blackstone Publishing, based in Ashland, Oregon, has carved a niche for itself as a powerhouse in the audiobook market. Founded in 1987, it has grown into one of America’s fastest-growing publishing houses. The company boasts a catalog filled with New York Times bestsellers and Grammy Award-winning audio productions. Now, with its latest deal with Penguin Random House Audio, Blackstone is extending its reach even further.
The partnership with Penguin Random House Audio allows Blackstone to manufacture and distribute select titles as CDs on demand. This is a significant move, especially for library customers and retail outlets. In a world increasingly dominated by digital formats, the demand for physical audiobooks remains. Many listeners still cherish the tactile experience of CDs. Blackstone recognizes this and is stepping up to meet that demand.
The curated selection includes works from bestselling authors like Ali Hazelwood and Jesse Q. Sutanto. For many of these titles, this marks their first appearance on CD. This partnership is not just about expanding product offerings; it’s about enhancing the listening experience. Audiobooks are more than just stories; they are an escape, a journey. By providing physical formats, Blackstone is ensuring that these journeys remain accessible to all.
Anne Fonteneau, Chief Sales Officer of Blackstone Publishing, emphasized the importance of this partnership. The goal is clear: to deliver high-quality audiobooks to a broader audience. This is not merely a business transaction; it’s a mission to connect listeners with compelling narratives. The partnership with Penguin Random House Audio is a step toward achieving that mission.
But Blackstone isn’t stopping there. The company has also announced a strategic co-publication partnership with Everand, a part of Scribd, Inc. This collaboration aims to release both timely and timeless nonfiction through Everand’s Originals digital publishing program. Blackstone will oversee manufacturing and distribution across all formats, including print, ebook, and audiobook sales channels.
This partnership is a fusion of strengths. Blackstone brings its established publishing capabilities, while Everand offers a digital platform that caters to modern readers. Together, they aim to amplify diverse voices and innovative ideas. This is a crucial step in a publishing landscape that often favors the mainstream. By championing unique narratives, they can cultivate a richer literary culture.
The inaugural title from this partnership, "THREE KINGS: Race, Class, and the Barrier-Breaking Rivals Who Redefined Sports and Launched the Modern Olympic Age," is set to release on July 2, 2024. This book, by New York Times bestselling author Todd Balf, explores a legendary sports rivalry against the backdrop of the 1924 Paris Olympics. It’s a story that resonates with themes of competition, achievement, and national identity. The timing of its release aligns perfectly with the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games, making it a timely addition to the literary landscape.
This collaboration is not just about books; it’s about creating a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. The partnership reflects a shared passion for experimentation and innovation. In a world where content consumption is rapidly changing, Blackstone and Everand are positioning themselves at the forefront of this evolution.
The digital age has transformed how we consume stories. Audiobooks, ebooks, and print books all have their place. Blackstone’s strategy acknowledges this diversity. By offering multiple formats, they cater to different preferences. Some readers want the convenience of digital; others crave the nostalgia of a physical book. Blackstone is ensuring that no one is left behind.
As the publishing industry continues to shift, partnerships like these are vital. They represent a commitment to quality and accessibility. Blackstone Publishing is not just adapting; it’s thriving. By collaborating with industry leaders like Penguin Random House Audio and Scribd, they are setting a standard for others to follow.
In conclusion, Blackstone Publishing is charting a bold course in the world of audiobooks and publishing. With its recent partnerships, the company is poised to enhance the listening experience for audiences everywhere. By embracing both traditional and modern formats, Blackstone is ensuring that stories continue to resonate. The future looks bright for this innovative publisher. As they continue to expand their reach, one thing is clear: Blackstone is a name to watch in the literary world.