Our Story
Carus Books is an innovative book publisher with an international scope and deep roots. We contribute a print and digital catalog of high-quality new titles in intelligent, yet accessible, non-fiction: philosophy, popular culture, education, public policy, comparative religion, psychology, and psychotherapy. Our approach is irreverent, unpretentious, and always ready to take on popular myths. We bring voices to conversations with multiple points of view and provide a platform supporting free debate in accordance with the great Enlightenment thinkers. We at Carus Books hope to be a part of your story.
Our Legacy
Paul Carus began publishing magazines, journals, and books in 1887, basing his operations in the prairie town of La Salle, Illinois. He gave an eloquent voice to new philosophical and religious thinking, with a momentous impact on the evolution of ideas. Later, the Carus family made vital contributions to publishing children’s literature (Cricket Magazine) and school textbooks (Open Court).
Today Carus Books continues this tradition of serious innovation, with a steady output of stimulating new volumes.
Our Legacy
More than a century in publishing
Our Imprints
The Open Universe logo shows the Hegeler Carus mansion in La Salle, Illinois. Paul Carus began publishing here, pioneering new studies and translating volumes in philosophy, science, psychology, and comparative religion. His efforts were pivotal in advancing these fields of study within the US and internationally. Today, the mansion serves as a popular museum and a center for the Carus family’s mission.
In honoring a family legacy of active participation in education and reform, Carus Books carries on publishing high-quality books and educational materials. The name Carus has been associated with quality and excellence in publishing and education internationally for more than a century.