05/31/2024
Carys Anderson and The Austin Chronicle have a new story out spotlighting small presses in Austin. As we approach our tenth anniversary this summer, we were thrilled and appreciative to be included in the article.
I say 'we' because the press has never been solely on my shoulders even if I'm the only one mentioned in the story. From the beginning, Tatiana Ryckman has brought the writerly talent, wisdom far beyond her years, and her amazing ability to make pretty much everything better. Whatever raw idea or concept I put forth, she adeptly refined it or flat-out shot it down. I appreciate her immensely and was mildly alarmed to have the article focus on me at all. We would not have lasted so long or maybe even launched and certainly not have achieved so much had she not committed to the concept of the press.
In place of our annual August essay series this year, we are hoping to spotlight the major players over our last ten years. I spoke about some of these when talking to Carys, but most didn't end up in the article either. No complaints, but I feel I need to make sure people are acknowledged. We wouldn't have had such a strong start without the help of curators like Mike Young, Amy Gentry, Owen Egerton, or T Kira Madden or the participation of authors such as David Olimpio, Donald Quist, Susanna Childress, or Erin Pringle to name a few who entrusted us early on. And there's a whole slew of folks behind the scenes helping to get each book out into the world. Stay tuned as we get ready to celebrate a decade.
The other thing I was happy about with this article was getting to spend time with the other groups. Red Light Lit and Host Publications have some standout women involved. Reminiscing over the last ten years with them at the photoshoot reminded me of the pure joy I've experienced bringing these books into the world, working closely with so many remarkable people. If you have supported us over the years, thank you so much. Please consider checking out their work as well. And please continue supporting literary efforts in Austin. ~Wendy
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