Books: Ever wonder how a best-seller is born?

While New York publishing conglomerates continue to grow and morph into unwieldy behemoths, Doug Seibold, president of Evanston-based Agate Publishing, has spent the last two decades quietly building a lean and profitable business that taps into resources often overlooked by the big houses, notably Black and midwestern authors.

Jane, George, Marla and Doug Seibold celebrate 20 years in publishing at a recent event held at the Peckish Pig. Credit: Evan Girard

Nestled among print shops and ceramic studios in the tree-lined art district, Agate Publishing occupies an unassuming storefront at 1328 Greenleaf St. and seems to have found its sweet