Black Sparrow Press

History

Black Sparrow was founded in Los Angeles, California, in 1966 by John Martin in order to publish the works of Charles Bukowski and other avant-garde authors. Barbara Martin co-founded the press with her husband and, as the press's lead designer, she was responsible for its distinctive and bold covers. After 35 years, and 700 titles, John Martin sold the company in 2002.

In 2020, John Martin agreed that Godine would continue Black Sparrow's publishing legacy. In early 2020, the press released Wicked Enchantment: Selected Poems, the first new edition of work by Wanda Coleman since the author's passing in 2013; the collection is edited and introduced by Terrance Hayes. Coleman is a long-time Black Sparrow author and one of its most important poets.

In March 2020, as part of a relaunch of its parent company, Black Sparrow joined Two Rivers Distribution, an Ingram brand, for sales of its titles to readers worldwide.

Notable awards and honors

Eddie Chuculate, PEN/O. Henry Prize 2007.

Wanda Coleman, Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize 1999, National Book Award Poetry Finalist 2001.

Naomi Replansky, William Carlos Williams Award 2013, Poetry Society of America

References

References

1. Benson, Heidi. (29 July 2002). "Black Sparrow Press shuts its doors / Indie publisher sells Bukowski, Fante and Bowles titles to HarperCollins".
2. (6 May 2020). "The Fearless Invention of One of L.A.'s Greatest Poets".
3. "David R. Godine Joins Two Rivers Distribution".
4. "Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize {{pipe}} Academy of American Poets".
5. "Wanda Coleman".
6. "Award Winners".