Judy Clain Takes Charge of Summit Books’ Relaunch at Simon & Schuster

Simon & Schuster is set to breathe new life into the Summit Books imprint, with Judy Clain at the helm as the new senior vice president and publisher. Publisher’s Weekly is reporting that Clain, a seasoned leader with a remarkable track record, will be transitioning from Little, Brown, where she served as editor-in-chief since 2011. Her journey with Little, Brown began in 1998, marking a notable career in the industry.

Summit Books, originally active from 1976 to 1991, has a rich history of publishing influential authors like Elie Wiesel and James Baldwin. The relaunch under Simon & Schuster aims to rejuvenate this legacy, tailoring it to meet the tastes and expectations of a 21st-century audience.

Expanding Horizons

In her new role, Clain is not only revitalizing a historic imprint but also taking a significant position in Simon & Schuster’s global publishing initiatives. Her responsibilities will extend across international boundaries, collaborating with various publishers, editors, and rights directors. This global approach underscores Simon & Schuster’s commitment to fostering diverse and worldwide literary talent.

Jonathan Karp, CEO of Simon & Schuster, expressed high regard for Clain, highlighting her exceptional editorial leadership. Karp’s past collaborations with Clain have given him firsthand insight into her capabilities and the unique perspective she brings to the publishing world. Karp is confident in Clain’s ability to lead the resurgence of Summit Books, a brand known for its distinguished history.

Clain’s Vision and Gratitude

In her statement, Clain shared her excitement about the new chapter in her career. She emphasized her alignment with Summit Books’ historic commitment to diversity and broad-mindedness, key elements she plans to incorporate into her publishing strategy. Her vision for Summit includes a focus on bold, international fiction and nonfiction, striving to offer readers a comprehensive view of the world.

Clain also reflected on her time at Little, Brown, expressing deep gratitude for the relationships she built and the experiences she gained. She acknowledged the support and guidance of Michael Pietsch, CEO of Hachette Book Group, and the entire Little, Brown team.

A Legacy Remembered

At Little, Brown, Clain’s departure is marked with both sadness and good wishes. Bruce Nichols, senior vice president and publisher at Little, Brown, praised Clain’s legendary commitment to her work and her invaluable support to staff members.

As Judy Clain embarks on this new journey with Summit Books, the publishing world watches with anticipation. Her expertise and vision promise a vibrant future for this storied imprint, poised to make a significant impact on the global literary landscape.