Charlesbridge Publishing has acquired Imagine Publishing, a publisher founded in 2009 by Charles and Jeremy Nurnberg to do children and adult titles. Charles Nurnberg, the former CEO of Sterling, will stay on as v-p and publisher of the Imagine imprint, while Jeremy will become v-p of sales for Charlesbridge, reporting to associate publisher Mary Ann Sabia. Charlesbridge is taking over distribution of Imagine titles effective immediately. The company had been one of the original clients of BookMasters Distribution Services for which Jeremy Nurnberg served as head of sales.
Imagine’s biggest success to date has been the picture book bestseller Over the Rainbow, which includes a CD by Judy Collins. The book is part of the Peter Yarrow Books imprint that Imagine formed in partnership with the singer/songwriter and author who was part of Peter, Paul and Mary. Set for October from the imprint is The Night Before Christmas, with a CD by Peter, Paul and Mary. Including the upcoming fall list, Imagine has released 31 titles and plans call for the imprint to do 15-18 books annually.
The acquisition brings the children’s-book focused Charlesbridge into the adult trade area. “Imagine adds an exciting new dimension to our list,” said Sabia, “while also leading us in a new strategic direction with our first general trade books.”
Commenting on Imagine's departure, BookMasters head Dave Wurster said "Charlie was a valued partner and I am sad to see him go."
