Carroll & Graf: A History of the Independent Publishing House
The landscape of American independent publishing was significantly shaped by Carroll & Graf, a New York City-based house known for its eclectic taste and commitment to diverse genres. Founded by industry veterans, the company carved out a niche by blending high-brow literature with gripping non-fiction and genre fiction.
The Founding and Early Vision
Carroll & Graf was established in 1982 by Kent Carroll and Herman Graf. Both founders brought extensive experience from Grove Press, where Carroll served as editorial director from 1975 to 1981 and Graf held the position of executive vice president. Operating from their headquarters on West 17th Street in New York City, the duo sought to create a catalog that appealed to a wide array of intellectual and recreational interests.
The publisher's offerings were broad, spanning several key categories:
- Fiction: Including science fiction and British mystery imports.
- Non-fiction: Focusing on history, biography, and current affairs.
Growth and Literary Success
By 1995, the house had grown into a prolific operation, releasing approximately 125 titles annually. Their roster featured a prestigious array of authors, including literary figures such as Anthony Burgess, Beryl Bainbridge, and Penelope Fitzgerald, as well as genre masters like Philip K. Dick and Eric Ambler.
The company also achieved significant commercial success with specific titles. In 1988, they published Best Evidence in a trade paperback format—a version of the book that had previously spent three months on the New York Times best seller list between January and March 1981. Additionally, the non-fiction best-seller Crossfire: The Plot That Killed Kennedy gained immense cultural visibility when it was adapted into the film JFK by director Oliver Stone.
Corporate Transitions and Closure
The final chapters of Carroll & Graf were marked by a series of corporate acquisitions. In 1998, the company was purchased by the Avalon Publishing Group. Under this new ownership, Will Balliett stepped in as publisher in 2003.
The trajectory shifted again in January 2007 when the Perseus Books Group acquired Avalon. Shortly thereafter, in May 2007, Perseus president David Steinberger announced the closure of the Carroll & Graf imprint, bringing an end to its tenure as a distinct publishing entity.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1982 by Kent Carroll and Herman Graf.
- Location: West 17th Street, New York City.
- Peak Output: 125 titles per year by 1995.
- Notable Adaptation: Crossfire: The Plot That Killed Kennedy became the movie JFK.
- Final Acquisition: Purchased by Perseus Books Group via Avalon Publishing Group.
- Closure: Announced in May 2007.
| Period | Owner/Parent Company | Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1982 – 1998 | Independent (Carroll & Graf) | Foundation and growth |
| 1998 – 2007 | Avalon Publishing Group | Acquisition and leadership change (2003) |
| 2007 | Perseus Books Group | Acquisition and subsequent shutdown |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Carroll & Graf?
The company was co-founded in 1982 by Kent Carroll and Herman Graf, both of whom previously held executive roles at Grove Press.
What types of books did Carroll & Graf publish?
They published a diverse range of fiction and non-fiction, including history, biography, current affairs, science fiction, and mysteries, specifically including imports from Britain.
Which famous movie was based on a Carroll & Graf book?
The movie JFK, directed by Oliver Stone, was based on the non-fiction best-seller Crossfire: The Plot That Killed Kennedy.
When did Carroll & Graf cease operations?
The shutdown of the imprint was announced in May 2007 by David Steinberger, the president of Perseus Books Group.
Who were some of the authors published by the house?
Their authors included Philip K. Dick, Anthony Burgess, Beryl Bainbridge, Penelope Fitzgerald, and Eric Ambler.