19/05/2026
Today, we’re delighted to announce that Arthur H Stockwell Ltd has acquired Oxford-based publisher Signal Books .
Founded by James Ferguson in 1997, Signal Books is known for its acclaimed non-fiction titles across travel, history, biography, religion, philosophy, and current affairs.
Signal will now become an imprint of Arthur H. Stockwell, joining Tiny Tree Children's Books , Oak Tree Books , Chinbeard Books , and Matthew James Publishing
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Full Press Release 👇
Arthur H. Stockwell Acquires Oxford-Based Publisher Signal Books
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arthur H. Stockwell is delighted to announce the acquisition of Oxford-based publishing house Signal Books. Established in 1997 by James Ferguson, Signal specialises in non-fiction titles covering history, travel, biography, religion, philosophy, and current affairs.
This acquisition will see Signal Books join the Arthur H. Stockwell roster of publishing imprints alongside Tiny Tree Books, Oak Tree Books, Chinbeard Books, and Matthew James Publishing.
Signal Books’ titles have received critical acclaim on the national stage, developing a reputation for being well-informed, stylish, and passionate non-fiction releases. Having operated independently for almost “30 rewarding years”, founder James Ferguson felt that the time was right to officially join the Arthur H. Stockwell family of imprints.
James Ferguson says: “I am happy to merge the company with A.H. Stockwell and to join forces with Paul Andrews and his team. We have already been working together for many years, and I am confident that Stockwell, with its diversified portfolio of lists and range of publishing formats, will be a good fit for Signal's mix of travel writing and history.”
Mr Ferguson will remain involved with the day-to-day operations of Signal Books, with new titles coming from the imprint in the near future.
Paul Andrews, CEO of Arthur H. Stockwell Ltd, says: “Having worked with Signal Books for close to 15 years as a partner, it is a privilege to be able to incorporate this amazing range of titles into Arthur H. Stockwell. We are looking forward to working with Signal Books’ existing author base, whilst adding new authors to the growing family of authors within Stockwell”.
Arthur H. Stockwell Ltd recently celebrated its centenary as a publisher, making the company the longest-standing independent book publisher in the UK.
Praise for Signal Books
“An excellent series of books written by people passionate about the places” — The Sunday Times
“Smartest and most stylish of travel publishers” — The Independent
“While the logistical specifics of travel —addresses, phone numbers, prices–will become the property of the internet, there will always be an appetite for inspiration from informed sources. This has been recognised by Signal Books‘ superb guides —cultural companions which disdain hotel and restaurant recommendations entirely in favour of informed, thoughtful and witty ruminations on each city‘s history, literature and art”— Independent on Sunday
