The Oetinger Publishing Group
Medienhaus Oetinger is one of the leading companies in the German-language market for children's and young adult media. Renowned for its publishing expertise, outstanding programme and exceptional roster of authors and creative contributors, it has been a family-run business for three generations — and remains one of Germany's most successful independent children's media companies to this day.
As a specialist in high-quality entertainment, Medienhaus Oetinger offers young people stories and narrative worlds that are fun, moving, motivating and inspiring — from beloved classics like Pippi Longstocking, the Sat and the Inkworld series to modern print, audio and digital media, all the way to innovative games and educational products.
A House Full of Diverse Publishing Companies
Under its roof in Hamburg, Medienhaus Oetinger unites renowned publishing companies with a remarkable success story:
• Verlag Friedrich Oetinger with the imprints Moon Notes and migo
• Dressler Verlag with the imprints DRESSLERillustro and Ellermann
• Oetinger Media with the imprints Oetinger audio, Oetinger CRIME and Igel Records
• Bühnenverlag Weitendorf, specialising in children's theatre rights
In addition, Oetinger Corporate has established itself as an experienced provider of transmedia storytelling and merchandise in the children's media segment. The Oetinger Kulturdeck event forum in the publishing house's own theatre offers a vibrant stage for readings, talks, workshops and more.
History and Program
The foundation of today's Medienhaus Oetinger was laid in 1946, when Friedrich Oetinger established his publishing house in Hamburg. The turning point came in 1949 with the German publication of Astrid Lindgren's world-famous Pippi Longstocking: a title that defined the company's direction and its commitment to progressive, character-driven children's literature.
In 2026, Medienhaus Oetinger celebrates its 80th anniversary! A milestone that marks not only a rich history but a clear vision for the future, as the company continues its transformation from traditional publisher to a modern, innovative media house bringing stories to life across all formats and channels.
Today, Medienhaus Oetinger publishes the works of Germany's most celebrated authors, among them Kirsten Boie, Cornelia Funke, Paul Maar and Tanya Stewner. The Ogglies, the Sat and Pettersson and Findus are iconic characters beloved by generations of children. Cornelia Funke's Inkworld series, Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games trilogy and the Alea Aquarius series by Tanya Stewner are perennial bestsellers across age groups. The publishing group's authors, illustrators and translators are regularly recognised with prestigious awards, including the German Children's Literature Prize (Deutscher Jugendliteraturpreis).
