Amplifying Indigenous voices: Four Indigenous publishing houses

Abstract

Existing research in the field of Indigenous children’s literature is sparse but growing. A notable gap in the literature is the paucity of insight into Indigenous picturebook publishing. In preparation for a larger study of Indigenous publishing processes, in this study, we conducted a website analysis to explore the work of Indigenous publishing houses. From this data, we constructed four case studies focusing on Magabala Books (Australia), Black Bears and Blueberries Publishing (USA), Theytus Books (Canada), and Inhabit Media (Canada). Additionally, we present a close analysis of four recently published picturebooks from the publishing houses (one from each). In this article, we provide insights into the key themes underpinning the four Indigenous publishers, including a commitment to storytelling, collaboration, and education; the amplification and prioritization of Indigenous languages; the place of external funding; incorporation of Indigenous art; and the educational background of the authors and illustrators.