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https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/

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https://tr.ee/3RjHw_GSiW

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Summary

In this episode of Sensible Sessions, Amber Wardell speaks with Michael LaBorn, a bookish content creator and founder of Left Unread, a publishing imprint focused on amplifying Black and Brown authors. They discuss the importance of community-led publishing, the challenges faced by diverse voices in the traditional publishing industry, and the implicit biases that affect which stories get told. Michael shares insights on the launch of Bindery, a platform that supports bookish content creators, and the significance of creating space for underrepresented authors in the literary world. In this conversation, Amber Wardell and Michael LaBorn delve into the complexities of storytelling, particularly focusing on the representation of marginalized voices in literature. They discuss the implications of whiteness in storytelling, the importance of joy alongside narratives of oppression, and the financial barriers faced by aspiring authors. Michael shares insights about his imprint, Left Unread, which aims to support Black and Brown authors in navigating the publishing landscape, emphasizing community support and the need for diverse narratives.

Takeaways

Michael LaBorn emphasizes the importance of choice in publishing paths.

Community-led publishing can disrupt traditional barriers in the industry.

The name 'Left Unread' signifies the fight for overlooked books.

Diversity in publishing is crucial for representation and success.

Implicit bias affects which stories are prioritized in publishing.

More Black and Brown voices are needed behind the scenes in publishing.

Readers can find themselves in stories that are not their own.

Access to publishing should be available to everyone.

The publishing industry is still predominantly white.

Community support is vital for the success of diverse authors. The retelling of sacred stories by those without ancestral knowledge can be problematic.

Joyful narratives are essential in literature, not just stories of oppression.

The publishing industry often favors authors with established platforms, creating barriers for new voices.

Community support is crucial for uplifting marginalized authors in the publishing world.

Self-publishing can be an expensive route, often inaccessible to many aspiring authors.

Literature has the power to shape perspectives and influence societal change.

There is a need for more diverse voices in storytelling, particularly in traditional publishing.

Authors should be encouraged to explore both joy and struggle in their narratives.

The importance of empathy in understanding messages that may not be intended for all audiences.

Creating multiple pathways for authors to enter the publishing space is vital.

Keywords

publishing, diversity, Black authors, Left Unread, Bindery, systemic barriers, book industry, representation, community-led publishing, implicit bias, storytelling, publishing, representation, literature, community, authors, joy, oppression, self-publishing, diversity