or the next two and a half weeks Publish Chicago will be on hiatus.  I’m taking a trip to Japan to visit a friend teaching English there.  I’m excited to have lots of time to read on the trip, so keep your eyes peeled for new book reviews upon my return May 24th.  See you all then!

his past Thursday night I had the pleasure of attending the Department of Cultural Affair’s first ever gathering of Chicago publishers for a discussion of “What’s new and what’s next in Chicago publishing.” The event took place at Maxim’s, which was fabulous. The entire place was decorated with plush red carpet, chandeliers, and gold rimmed paintings and mirrors. The event was meant to be just a gathering of people who work in or with the publishing industry in Chicago, and it was packed. I met senior editors and web personalities, such as Bookslut’s very own Jessa Crispin.

The highlight of the event was a panel discussion between three important personalities in Chicago publishing. The panel featured Garrett Kiely, director of the University of Chicago Press, Rick Kogan author, columnist, and radio star, and Donna Seaman, associate editor of Booklist.  ¶ View In Entirety… ⇒

“For over 100 years, Booklist magazine has been reading everything–so you don’t have to. But how do we read that many books? For the first time ever, the intrepid editors of Booklist provide a glimpse into the their top-secret methods. Prepare to be shocked and amazed.”