Top 10 Book Publishing Companies in Sarajevo 2025

 

Sarajevo in 2025 stands as a vibrant hub of literary culture in Southeast Europe. The city’s publishing industry reflects both its rich historical traditions and its dynamic present. Local publishers serve not only Bosnian readers but also regional and international audiences interested in literature, academic work, children’s stories, and cultural studies. Authors looking for opportunities will find a range of publishers—from independent presses to established houses and hybrid services—ready to support their projects.

1. Barnett Ghostwriting

Barnett Ghostwriting has become an important name in Sarajevo’s creative and publishing scene. Known primarily for its writing and editorial services, the company also supports authors who want to take their manuscripts to publication. It works across genres but is especially strong in memoirs and nonfiction.

• Provides ghostwriting, editing, manuscript development services for authors and marketing services.

• Works mostly on memoirs, biographies, and narrative nonfiction projects.

• Follows a collaborative process that preserves the author’s voice while delivering professional results.

2. Buybook

Buybook is one of Sarajevo’s oldest and most respected publishing houses. With decades of experience, it is known for producing high-quality literary works, translations, and cultural criticism. Its catalogue includes both local authors and international voices.

• Publishes literary fiction, poetry, essays, and social science works.

• Offers strong editorial support and carefully designed book production.

• Actively participates in literary festivals and cultural events in the region.

3. Svjetlost

Svjetlost has a long history in Sarajevo and is widely recognized for its focus on education and children’s literature. It has played a major role in producing textbooks, readers, and illustrated works for younger audiences.

• Specializes in children’s books, YA fiction, and educational materials.

• Maintains partnerships with schools and educators across the region.

• Offers professional illustration and curriculum-based publishing support.

4. Dobra knjiga

Dobra knjiga is a publisher known for its emphasis on Bosnian culture, spirituality, and history. Its catalogue highlights works that preserve the identity and traditions of Sarajevo while also speaking to broader audiences.

• Publishes local history, memoirs, and cultural studies.

• Appeals to readers interested in Bosnian heritage and identity.

• Offers authors a platform to showcase works with cultural and regional significance.

5. Veselin Masleša Publishing House

This mid-sized Sarajevo publisher produces a diverse list that includes both commercial and academic titles. Its reputation rests on blending popular writing with intellectual works that speak to contemporary readers.

• Publishes contemporary fiction, history, and social sciences.

• Maintains a reliable editorial process and solid production values.

• Distributes books across bookstores and participates in regional book fairs.

6. Šahinpašić

Šahinpašić represents Sarajevo’s independent publishing spirit. A small but active press, it often focuses on literary experiments and emerging authors. Its works are noted for creativity and a willingness to take risks.

• Publishes poetry, chapbooks, and experimental prose.

• Produces small print runs with distinctive, artistic design.

• Offers close collaboration between authors and editors.

7. Orijental

Orijental is a Sarajevo-based publisher balancing academic and trade nonfiction. It is known for producing accessible works on history, culture, and social issues while maintaining scholarly reliability.

• Publishes popular history, cultural studies, and nonfiction titles.

• Provides professional editing, design, and both print and digital formats.

• Ensures authors visibility in academic circles and broader readerships.

8. Dereta Sarajevo

Dereta’s Sarajevo imprint builds on the reputation of a well-known regional publisher. Its focus is on contemporary fiction and carefully selected translations that appeal to local readers.

• Publishes literary and commercial fiction with modern themes.

• Offers professional design and strong editorial quality.

• Ensures wide distribution in Sarajevo and beyond.

9. Sarajevo Independent Collective

Sarajevo also has a tradition of grassroots publishing initiatives. The Sarajevo Independent Collective is an example of a small community-focused publisher that supports experimental and socially engaged literature.

• Publishes emerging authors and community-driven works.

• Emphasizes small editions and handcrafted elements in design.

• Provides opportunities for authors to connect directly with readers at events.

10. Buybook Cultural Projects

Beyond its role as a publisher, Buybook has become a cultural hub in Sarajevo. Through events, festivals, and translation initiatives, it actively connects local authors with international audiences.

• Organizes author talks, book launches, and literary festivals.

• Supports translations and cross-border cultural exchange.

• Provides platforms for writers to gain recognition beyond Sarajevo.

Practical Insights for Authors

Sarajevo’s publishing industry offers multiple opportunities, but authors must approach it with realistic expectations and preparation. Manuscripts should be polished before submission, and authors should carefully match their work to the right publisher. Many presses operate on modest budgets, so marketing support may be limited, requiring authors to play an active role in promotion.

• Most publishers take 6–18 months to move from manuscript acceptance to final publication.

• Print runs are often conservative, ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand copies.

• Grants and cultural funds can support translation or production costs, especially for projects of cultural value.

Estimated Publishing Costs in Sarajevo (2025)

Service	Average Cost Range (USD)	Notes
Professional Editing (per book)	$400 – $1,200	Depends on manuscript length and depth of editing needed.
Book Design & Formatting	$250 – $800	Includes cover design and interior layout for print & digital.
Translation (per 1,000 words)	$20 – $40	Common for Bosnian-English or English-Bosnian projects.
Printing (500 copies, 200 pages)	$1,000 – $2,500	Costs vary by paper quality, color use, and binding.
Marketing & Promotion Packages	$300 – $1,500	Includes book launches, press releases, and social media campaigns.
ISBN & Registration	$30 – $100	Usually straightforward, handled by publisher or author.

 

Practical advice for authors seeking publication in Sarajevo

Choosing a publisher is both an editorial and logistical decision. Here are practical steps and realities to bear in mind when approaching publishers in Sarajevo:

• Match your manuscript to the list: Before querying, study a publisher’s recent titles. A literary house will not be the right home for a mass-market genre manuscript and vice versa.

• Polish the manuscript: Most established Sarajevo publishers expect a well-edited manuscript or a detailed proposal for nonfiction. Use professional proofreading and, if needed, a structural editor.

• Language considerations: If your manuscript is in Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian it will have the broadest immediate reach. For works in English or other languages, investigate translation or bilingual editions.

• Understand rights and contracts: Pay attention to territorial rights, translation rights, and digital-format clauses. If unfamiliar with publishing contracts, consult a local literary lawyer or an experienced editor.

• Expect modest advances: Many Sarajevo presses operate on limited budgets. Advances—if offered—are typically small; many authors rely on royalties, grants, or self-funding for production costs.

• Grants and cultural funds: Bosnia and the region have cultural grants and public arts funding—investigate city, national, or EU cultural funds that can offset translation or production costs.

• Marketing and visibility: Smaller presses often have strong niche audiences but limited marketing budgets. Authors should be prepared to take an active role in promotion—readings, social media, and local press.

• Consider hybrid routes: If traditional routes feel limiting, hybrid models (editorial services + assisted self-publishing) can offer control and professional quality—Barnett Ghostwriting exemplifies this hybrid support model.

Conclusion

Sarajevo’s book publishing companies in 2025 reflect a blend of tradition and innovation. From established houses like Buybook and Svjetlost to independent collectives and hybrid services like Barnett Ghostwriting, the city provides a diverse environment for authors. Whether the goal is to publish literary fiction, children’s literature, or personal memoirs, Sarajevo offers pathways that balance creativity with professional publishing standards. Authors who align their manuscripts with the right publisher and remain actively engaged in promotion can find rewarding opportunities in this evolving literary landscape.