Daniel Akst, a passionate advocate for literature, has taken on the mission of reviving Philadelphia’s rich literary heritage through his new publishing venture, Tivoli Books, founded in 2024.
Akst aims to shine a light on unjustly forgotten literature and new works that have been overlooked by mainstream publishers.
As a former resident of Philadelphia, he feels a personal connection to the city’s literary history and sees it as an important mission to bring these stories back to readers.
The first release from Tivoli Books is The Comfort Letter, a captivating legal drama by the late Arthur R. G. Solmssen, who deftly captures the ethical challenges and complex social fabric of Philadelphia during the periods of the 1960s through the ’80s.
Akst believes that The Comfort Letter serves as a perfect entry point to reintroduce Solmssen’s work to the readers.
In addition to The Comfort Letter, plans are underway to follow up with Alexander’s Feast, ensuring a continuation of Solmssen’s legacy.
Tivoli Books, headquartered in Akst’s home in Tivoli, N.Y., operates with a small, dedicated team, including his wife, who serves as the copy editor.
This intimate structure allows for flexibility and agility that often eludes larger publishing houses.
In a recent interview, Akst opened up about the motivations behind starting Tivoli Books.
He expressed a strong belief that many quality books were being overlooked by traditional publishers.
He sees an opportunity not just to bring back forgotten gems but to publish new material that deserves attention.
The changing dynamics and democratization of book publishing due to technology encouraged him to take the plunge and explore this new avenue.
Throughout the process, he has discovered a range of skills, from cover design to contract management, that he had not imagined acquiring.
Keeping overhead costs low is essential for small presses like Tivoli Books, as it allows for a focus on quality literature rather than chasing mass-market appeal.
Akst himself has taken to designing book covers using Canva, surprising himself with the results, while also managing contracts in-house.
His background in editing and writing has given him a firm foundation, yet he acknowledges the business aspects that have come along with launching this venture.
Ultimately, Akst emphasizes that the heart of Tivoli Books is literature.
Currently, Tivoli has released four titles, all of which are novels, and he anticipates adding several more by the year’s end.
The speed at which they can publish is a key advantage for Tivoli Books, allowing them to bring timely literature to market without the bureaucratic delays common in larger enterprises.
Akst is focused on bridging the gap in publishing by reviving forgotten works that highlight a vibrant literary culture of the past.
He reflects on the literary scene of the 20th century, marked by rich cultural engagement across the Atlantic, where books played a central role in society.
Recognition and coverage of literature were abundant back then, creating a diverse pool of literary talent, some of which remains obscured today.
His decision to start with previously loved books allows for a quick entry into the publishing world while they also aim to manifest new narratives moving forward.
Akst has noted a distinct void in the publication of certain genres, such as novels centered around business and the evolution of romance in literature.
He draws attention to the fact that novels often explore complex societal interactions, and he seeks to capture that essence in his publications.
The Comfort Letter particularly exemplifies this, featuring lawyer Ordway Smith, who faces numerous ethical dilemmas throughout a bond deal, highlighting the nuances of obligation within the legal profession.
The titular Comfort Letter, serves to assure investors about potential risks, emphasizing the central theme of mutual obligations and ethical decisions in business dealings.
Akst stresses the importance of not losing sight of history as contemporary society reflects on the past, and how Solmssen’s works can guide readers in this exploration.
The thematic relevance of Solmssen’s narratives is evident, addressing issues such as race and the changing roles of women in the legal world, offering insight into Philadelphia’s societal norms of the time.
The nuanced portrayal of the law firm dynamics in Philadelphia during the last century illustrates various intersections of culture and identity, making it relatable even in today’s context.
Obtaining the rights to republish Solmssen’s work was made possible through the support of his three sons, who recognized the value in Akst’s passion for their father’s literature.
Despite starting as a new venture, the trust placed in Tivoli Books by Solmssen’s family sparked its development and has encouraged Akst to uphold that faith by delivering exceptional literature.
Looking forward, Tivoli Books is keen to accept submissions for new works, while also satisfying the desire for forgotten literature.
Akst insists on literacy that engages with the contemporary landscape, producing work not only as an endeavor to publish but as an essential contribution to the culture.
An emphasis on quality writing and voice is paramount in his selection process, as Akst is enthusiastic about exploring diverse narratives.
He particularly appreciates humor within literature, asserting that it serves as a vital tool for navigating the complexities of life.
With insights gathered from his own life experiences, he aspires to generate awareness among younger audiences about the variety of literature available to them.
Encouraging community support is also vital for the survival and growth of Tivoli Books, and Akst invites readers to engage with the titles, buy books, and provide feedback.
Launching a publishing venture like Tivoli Books poses challenges, particularly in establishing a sustainable model that can thrive amid economic pressures.
As a passionate publisher, Akst aims to create a lasting impact, encouraging readers to rediscover lost literary treasures and embrace fresh narratives as they emerge from the vibrant world of independent publishing.
In summary, Tivoli Books, with its mission spearheaded by Daniel Akst, seeks to pave the way for both the revival and creation of literature that speaks to the heart of Philadelphia’s culture and offers new voices insight into the complexities of life.
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