What's Happening?
Quite Literally Books, founded by Lisa Endo Cooper and Bremond Berry MacDougall in 2022, is dedicated to republishing out-of-print works by American women authors. The founders, who had no prior experience in publishing, have successfully brought six
titles back into circulation, including works by Charlotte Perkins Gilman and Dorothy Canfield Fisher. Their mission is to challenge the existing literary canon by reintroducing these forgotten authors to a new audience. The duo's approach involves extensive research, often utilizing resources like the New York Society Library to discover hidden literary gems. Despite challenges such as distribution limitations, they remain committed to their vision of promoting authentic literary experiences.
Why It's Important?
The resurgence of interest in forgotten literary works reflects a broader cultural trend towards valuing authenticity and historical context. By reviving these works, Quite Literally Books not only preserves cultural heritage but also provides contemporary readers with diverse perspectives that were previously marginalized. This initiative highlights the importance of inclusivity in literature and challenges the dominance of mainstream narratives. The focus on physical books and the tactile experience of reading also counters the digitalization trend, appealing to those who seek tangible connections in an increasingly virtual world.
What's Next?
As Quite Literally Books continues to grow, they aim to expand their catalog by encouraging submissions from individuals who may possess unpublished manuscripts from past generations. The founders hope to overcome distribution challenges by finding alternative ways to reach independent bookstores and readers. Their success could inspire other small publishers to explore similar ventures, potentially leading to a broader movement of rediscovering and valuing historical literature.
Beyond the Headlines
The revival of forgotten works by Quite Literally Books raises questions about the criteria used to define literary value and the role of publishers in shaping cultural narratives. By focusing on works by women authors, the imprint challenges gender biases in the literary world and promotes a more inclusive understanding of American literary history. This initiative also underscores the potential for small, independent publishers to influence cultural trends and contribute to the diversification of available literature.
