Amplifying Silenced Voices Through Micro- and Small-Press Publishing

This research uses exploratory, mixed-method case studies to explore the relationship between Australian micro- and small presses (MSPs), their publishing and promotion of writers of difference (WODs), and the relationship to Couldry’s (2010) concept of voice. Through structured interviews with two publishing houses and their WODs, I (a) identified MSPs’ strategies for publishing and promoting silenced and neglected writers, thus facilitating the expression of voice; and (b) learned how MSPs’ authors respond to their publishers’ efforts to promote voice, and what publishing strategies they suggest for the industry. This research offers a novel contribution to publishing studies and communication for social change.