Browse Case Studies (alphabetical by title)

The 2008 release of Austin Clarke’s novel, More, marked the end of a protracted period of writing, re-writing, and editing that had begun thirty years earlier. During this period, as Clarke’s career flourished and his other books were published and acclaimed, he persevered with the manuscript for More, encouraged by his agent, editors, and friends, finally publishing the novel that has been hailed as possibly “one of the crowning achievements of his career.”

Anna Porter is a true survivor of the Canadian publishing trade who achieved success through Jack McClelland’s mentorship, dedication, and hard work, to establish herself as reigning diva of the Canadian publishing industry. Multi-talented and known for her business savvy, Porter was president and publisher of Seal Books, and had a controlling interest in Doubleday Canada. In 1979 she successfully founded Key Porter Books. She has also authored several novels and notable works of non-fiction.

Riding on the nationalistic surge that engulfed post-Second World War Canada, publishers showcased the nation’s literary voices in new ways. McClelland & Stewart’s Indian File Series brought new poetry to Canadians, packaged in visually striking books that took advantage of developments in commercial design and evoked a strong Canadian sensibility.