Founded as a book distribution company, Boobook expanded as a publisher. Founded by Ian (Noddy) and Sally Hoyle, Boobook began by publishing children's books, such as Nevill Drury's The Magic Tree, but then sought to publish more commercial titles such as popular science titles, books of humour and multiple titles on Ti-Chi. The publishing company shared a warehouse in Kent Street, Sydney with Wild & Woolley and together the two firms co-founded the successful independent book distribution firm, Allbooks.
Boobook is known, not for its own list, but for its leading role in importing and distributing many significant overseas-originated titles toAustralia, including art books, literature, quality non-fiction and cult titles (mostly from America).