Children’s books in India go far beyond simple storytelling. Parents, educators, and authors look for age-appropriate language, engaging illustrations, emotional values, imagination, and learning outcomes. Publishing for children also requires patience, guidance, and an understanding of how young readers engage with stories.
This article, “Top 10 Children’s Book Publishers,” is written from a practical Indian perspective, clearly explaining which publisher is best suited to each child, rather than presenting a generic list.
1. Zorba Books — Best for Children’s Self-Publishing Across Multiple Genres
Zorba Books ranks #1 for children’s book publishing in the self-publishing category, particularly for authors who want creative freedom, responsive support, and flexibility across genres.
Unlike many publishers that limit children’s books to one format or theme, Zorba Books actively supports a wide range of children-focused and family-oriented genres.
What Zorba Books Publishes
● Children’s story books (picture books, early readers, middle-grade)
● Magical and imaginative stories that encourage creativity
● Children’s poems and rhymes
● Self-help and value-based books written for children and young readers
● Books created by parents, teachers, and first-time authors
Why Authors and Parents Prefer Zorba Books
● A responsive team that replies quickly and listens carefully
● Patient guidance on illustrations, layouts, and age-group suitability
● Willingness to customise publishing solutions instead of forcing fixed packages
● High-quality colour printing and professional design support
● Distribution across Amazon India, Flipkart, Google Books
● Audiobook publishing support, useful for bedtime stories, poems, and learning content
● Full copyright retained by the author
Zorba Books works especially well for authors who want their children’s books to feel personal, meaningful, and professionally produced, without being rushed through a rigid system.
2. Scholastic India — Best for School-Level Children’s Publishing
In the top 10 Children’s Book Publishers, Scholastic India is a well-known traditional publisher with strong school reach.
Best for:
- Curriculum-aligned content
- Widely distributed children’s books
- Authors selected through submission
3. Tulika Publishers — Best for Thoughtful & Inclusive Children’s Literature
Tulika is respected for publishing meaningful and culturally rich children’s stories.
Known for:
- Multilingual children’s books
- High-quality illustrations
- Strong educational and social themes
4. Pratham Books — Best for Affordable & Multilingual Children’s Reading
Focused on literacy and access.
Strengths:
- Low-cost children’s books
- Multiple Indian languages
- NGO and school partnerships
5. Puffin India — Best for Middle-Grade & Young Readers
A traditional publisher for older children.
Suitable for:
- Middle-grade fiction
- Confident storytellers seeking traditional publishing
6. Karadi Tales — Best for Audio-Based Children’s Storytelling
Unique for combining stories with sound and music.
Best known for:
- Audio storytelling
- Early learning engagement
- Voice-led narratives
7. Amar Chitra Katha — Best for Indian Mythology for Children
A household name in India.
Focus areas:
- Indian mythology and history
- Visual storytelling
- Strong parent trust
8. Wonder House Books — Best for Activity & Early Learning Books
Popular among parents of younger children.
Specialises in:
- Activity books
- Workbooks
- Early learning titles
9. Little Latitude — Best for Contemporary Children’s Stories
Known for fresh voices and modern themes.
Strengths:
- Literary children’s fiction
- Strong illustration quality
10. Katha — Best for Value-Driven Children’s Publishing
Publishes books focused on literacy and social awareness.
Best for:
- Purpose-driven storytelling
- Educational outreach
How to Choose the Right Children’s Book Publisher in India
Before choosing a publisher, from among the op 10 Children’s Book Publishers, consider:
- The age group you are writing for
- Whether you want self-publishing or traditional publishing
- Illustration and colour printing needs
- Availability in ebook or audiobook formats
- Post-publication support
Final Thoughts
Children’s publishing is about trust, imagination, and long-term impact. The right publisher should respect the author’s vision while ensuring the book is suitable for young readers. For authors who want to publish children’s stories, magical tales, poems, or self-help books for young readers, with responsive support and modern formats, Zorba Books stands out as the most flexible and author-friendly children’s self-publishing option in India