Islandport Press announces new publisher
Islandport Press announces a leadership transition with the hiring of KJ Grow as publisher.
After 25 years, original founder and publisher Dean Lunt is moving on from the entity, which is dedicated to stories rooted in the essence and sensibilities of New England.
“Dean had an incredible vision for an independent press in Maine," said Islandport Press co-owner Kathleen Fleury Capetta, in a news release. "He dedicated decades to making that come true, and we are all better for it. Reade Brower and I look forward to carrying it forward for decades to come."
Islandport Press is poised for the future as KJ Grow takes the reins in early January 2025, according to the release. Grow brings over 20 years of experience in book publishing and bookselling to her role. Previously serving as publisher of Shambhala Publications, where she expanded their mindful living and wisdom traditions lists, she has held leadership roles at Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Forbes Books. Her publishing career began as an intern at the literary nonprofit Graywolf Press, followed by completion of the Columbia Publishing Course and the Yale School of Management course for leaders in publishing. She holds a degree in English from St. Olaf College in Minnesota.
Originally from Montana, Grow now begins each day watching the sunrise from her home on Sebago Lake in Raymond — "a contemplative practice that informs her work as a publisher and her deep connection to place," said Islandport.
She is a passionate advocate for independent book publishing and bookselling, and is committed to publishing high quality books that are enduring, uplifting, and honor the vibrant literary heritage, culture, and communities of Maine.
Grow is looking forward to hitting the ground running, setting the course for Islandport Press’s continued growth and unique position in the New England publishing industry and with Maine authors and the reading community.
“It’s such an honor to take the helm of such an esteemed press that has been making valuable contributions to Maine’s rich literary heritage for the last 25 years," said Grow. "I’m delighted to help steward the voices, stories, and places that make life in Maine so distinctive through high-quality books. It is my sincere wish that Islandport Press be the most sought-after place for Maine writers to publish, and a leader in exceptional independent publishing.”
According to the release, Islandport Press is slated to increase its output to publish more books each year and to develop deeper relationships with authors and the community through increased in-person events and new ancillary products and collaborations. Islandport Press is part of Islandport Media, which owns newspapers in Midcoast and Downeast Maine, as well as a cafe in Camden, which will provide unique opportunities for connecting with Maine’s reading community and expanding opportunities for writers to collaborate with other authors and to reach their audience.
“This is a big moment for Islandport Press and for publishing in Maine, and I am thrilled at the opportunities and plans KJ has for our future," said Capetta.
Learn more at islandportpress.com. Please send inquiries to info@islandportpress.com.