Bancroft Press: A Beacon of Independent Publishing

In 1992, Bruce L. Bortz realized his long-standing dream of starting his own publishing

house, Bancroft Press. Consistently ranked as a top independent press, Bancroft was

founded on the principle of publishing books that both enlighten and entertain. Now

strategically based in Los Angeles after more than 30 years in Baltimore, the press has

carved out a distinct niche in the literary world. Bancroft's commitment to quality is

reflected in its highly selective process, publishing only four to six carefully chosen

books each year. This allows for a focused, hands-on approach to every project.

The press boasts an expansive and diverse catalog, featuring genres from memoirs and

mysteries to young adult novels, history, and biographies. It has a distinguished history

of recognizing exceptional talent, having published the works of four Pulitzer Prize

winners: Alice Steinbach, Stephen Hunter, Elizabeth McGowan, and Mark S. Johnson.

Bancroft's titles frequently earn critical acclaim, including numerous starred reviews and

prestigious awards. One notable success, The Missing Kennedy, became a New York

Times ebook bestseller and was featured on the cover of People Magazine.

From its inception, Bancroft Press has distinguished itself through its extraordinary

success in selling its properties to Hollywood. Bortz’s very first published book,

Lenny, Lefty, and the Chancellor, was sold to director Barry Levinson. This set a

precedent for a business model where cinematic potential is a key consideration for

publication. The recent move to Los Angeles has only enhanced the press's unique

position to connect its compelling narratives with leading industry producers and

directors.

Bancroft’s track record of book-to-screen deals is extensive and impressive, far

outpacing many other independent publishers. Collaborations include sales to:

• Mace Neufeld (The Samaritan)
• Showtime (Live by the Sword)
• Mel Gibson (Those Who Trespass)
• Village Roadshow (Both Sides of the Line)
• Michael Sullivan (For Whom the Minivan Rolls)
• Michael Goldstein (Daisy)

Bortz maintains an extensive network of relationships with production companies and

executives across the industry, from industry giants like HBO, Imagine, and Lionsgate to

influential producers at companies like Plan B Entertainment and Thunder Road

Pictures. This success is the direct result of Bruce L. Bortz’s unique ability to evaluate a

manuscript not only for its literary merit but also for its cinematic potential—a skill honed

over a lifetime spent in diverse media and fortified by years of marketing expertise. He

doesn't just publish books; he curates intellectual property with a clear vision for its life beyond the page. This distinctive approach, blending editorial passion with strategic,

market-aware publishing, defines the enduring legacy of Bruce L. Bortz and Bortz

Entertainment Law.