Talonbooks

Talonbooks is the leading publisher of drama in Canada and has been publishing works by influential Canadian authors for over four decades. Its repertoire features authors of international stature, writing in the literary genres of poetry, fiction and drama, as well as non-fiction books in the fields of ethnography, environmental and social issues, cultural studies, and literary criticism. The company began as a magazine called Talon in 1963. It was run by David Robinson and some of his high school friends, and it later incorporated Jim Brown, who acted as both a writer and editor for the publication. Talon later joined with a small local press called Very Stone House and published its first poetry books in 1967. The association with Very Stone House ended a year later, and the Talonbooks imprint started appearing by itself. In 1969, Talonbooks published its first drama title, Colours in the Dark by James Reaney and its editorial focus began shifting gradually more toward drama until it became the companys area of specialization. Karl Siegler became the business manager in 1974 and then publisher, assisted by his wife Christy. In 2007 a majority interest in the company was purchased by Kevin and Vicky Williams. Talons authors have been the recipients of numerous prestigious national and international awards. Prominent Talon authors include Michel Tremblay, George Ryga, bpNichol, George Bowering, bill bissett and Mary Meigs.