ALBANY, N.Y. (Feb 27, 2026) — Ann Godoff, the visionary founder of Penguin Press and one of the most influential figures in American publishing, died of cancer on Tuesday. She was 76.
A Storied Legacy
Godoff founded Penguin Press in 2003, transforming it into a powerhouse for high-profile fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Over a career spanning four decades, she became known for her sharp editorial instincts and her ability to shepherd era-defining works into the cultural mainstream.
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Impact: Under her leadership, Penguin Press produced countless New York Times bestsellers and winners of every major literary award.
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Tribute: Penguin Press publisher Scott Moyers described her influence on book culture as “incalculable,” noting her range across multiple genres and her eye for “best of the century” quality work.
Career Background
Born in Manhattan on July 22, 1949, Godoff rose through the ranks of the publishing world to become a formidable force. Before founding Penguin Press, she held senior leadership roles at Random House. She was celebrated for her commitment to intellectual rigor and her unwavering support for her authors.
The publishing world has expressed deep mourning for a leader whose work helped define the American literary landscape for nearly half a century.
