The average reader may not think much about the publishers behind their favorite books, although they likely recognize the names of the bigger players. But small publishers greatly enrich the literary world. They don’t typically have the budgets to invest in splashy advertising, but they’re staffed by people with a passion for books who actively support new writers and take risks on valuable titles that aren’t surefire commercial hits. A diverse publishing industry benefits everyone. Don’t let these original and intriguing new releases pass you by.
The Stones of Burren Bay by Emily De Angelis (Latitude 46, May 4): This charming, atmospheric debut comes from a Canadian publisher specializing in northern Ontario authors as well as “narratives about the unique landscape and culture of the region.” Here, the well-developed contemporary Manitoulin Island setting is interwoven with a story of immigration from Ireland, as a grieving teen girl finds solace in nature and rediscovers her passion for art.
A Bridge Home by Mona Alvarado Frazier (Piñata Books/Arte Público, May 31): This Houston-based publisher, which is “dedicated to the publication of children’s and young adult literature focusing on U.S. Hispanic culture,” is publishing Frazier’s evocative sophomore novel, which immerses readers in 1970s California. Against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the growing Chicano movement, Jacqui Bravo dreams of college while facing social inequalities and family financial struggles.
Grapefruit Moon by Shirley-Anne McMillan (Little Island, June 11): Targeting “the best new Irish writing for young readers,” this Dublin publisher was founded by Siobhán Parkinson, the first Laureate na nÓg, or Irish children’s laureate. McMillan’s latest is a raw, honest work with nuanced characterization set in a Belfast private school. A friendship forms between working-class Drew, who’s desperate to fit in, and popular Charlotte, whose privilege can’t protect her from an ex-boyfriend’s revenge porn.
The Lost Souls of Benzaiten by Kelly Murashige (Soho Teen, July 23): Manhattan’s Soho Press specializes in “bold literary voices, award-winning crime fiction, and groundbreaking young adult fiction.” This deeply emotional debut presents readers with a startling hook: Machi, a Japanese American teen who has stopped speaking after suffering trauma, visits a Shinto shrine, where she prays to the goddess Benzaiten, asking to be transformed into a robot vacuum cleaner.
My Life as a Chameleon by Diana Anyakwo (IgKids, Aug. 3): This debut by a Nigerian and Irish author made a splash upon its U.K. release last year; now a New York–based “independent press dedicated to publishing original literary fiction” has brought it here for U.S. readers to enjoy. This often gut-wrenching tale delves with honesty and insight into biracial and bicultural identity, mental health struggles, racism, and other topics that will resonate widely.
Mighty Millie Novak by Elizabeth Holden (Flux, Aug. 20): An imprint of Minnesota publisher North Star Editions, Flux focuses on being a “consistently provocative and independently alternative” publisher of YA books. This rollicking debut harnesses the energy of roller derby, which becomes a lifeline for a queer teen dealing with family conflict and social isolation. As well as improving her skills on the track, Millie navigates some thorny relationship issues as she comes into her own.
Laura Simeon is a young readers’ editor.
