For any questions not answered below, please feel free to email me at ingrid@gladstonepress.com and I’ll be happy to help!
Publishing
What do you publish?
Gladstone Press focuses solely on classic novels at this point in time. I strive to find novels written in the English language that have withstood the tests of time, including how we view our world today compared to in years past. Consider it a curated list.
Do you accept new manuscripts for publication?
Sorry, I don’t accept new manuscripts. Centuries-old manuscripts? That may be interesting… but it isn’t currently part of our mandate.
How often are you releasing new titles (and how many)?
Gladstone Press is on hold for the time being, so there are no new titles in the works.
How are these any different from cheaper editions in bookstores?
Overall, the design and printing quality for Gladstone Press is superior to most of the downmarket paperback classics. Also, unlike many reissues, these editions have been designed for a contemporary reader who is leery of having to look at historical paintings on the covers. Or, they may have not thought to read a particular book because it has been designed to appeal to a certain demographic, or uses predominantly European faces and bodies on the cover. Why put up barriers to enjoyment and relatability?
To conserve pages, many downmarket publishers typeset using smaller font sizes, compressed typefaces, and as many text lines as they can possibly fit. That density on the page can make reading unenjoyable, even a chore—particularly when reading more difficult passages. My books have been set for reading enjoyment first and foremost. There are margins. There is space to breathe, to really savour the reading experience.
Do you include an introduction essay or afterword?
Simple answer? No. I do include a brief author biography at the end of each book as well as a page outlining any interesting tidbits about the publication’s history (how it was written, any printing or edition quirks, prizes, that kind of thing). If the text itself includes antiquated or obscure words, I will include a brief definition as a footnote.
Introductions, though informative, can sometimes get in the way of enjoyment. Imagine that the latest Marlon James novel included an introduction by a literary historian who dissected his writing career and offered insight into what you are about to read. It may even include spoilers! It would be an odd addition to a modern novel. Also, in the wrong hands, introductions to classic novels can shape your perception about the story and characters, and make the book seem as if it is a school assignment (you must read it this way, you must catch this social commentary, etc.). Literary criticism and history are extremely valuable and deserve their own outlets. But tacked on to a novel? It’s not why I publish these, and there are other editions on the market that offer lengthy introductions. Besides, we live in an age of immediate information: a simple search online can garner you in-depth information on the author’s life, contextualize their various works, and offer other insights.
I found a spelling or printing error in my copy. What should I do?
In some books where older English is being used, a spelling error may in fact be the correct spelling. Printing errors, however, are pretty standardized and not so up for interpretation. Please use my contact page to get in touch, and I will discuss a solution with you.
What’s with the name ‘Gladstone Press’?
Many older publishing houses were named for their location. (And yes, some were located *in* houses.) And since my office is located on Gladstone Avenue in Toronto, I thought it would be great to continue that tradition. Simple.
What’s with the bag logo?
It’s a Gladstone bag. No, really. They were very popular suitcases in Victorian times, and named after the UK Prime Minister of the era. They are hinged, built over a rigid frame, and contain two equal sections. I like the idea of a bag that can carry anything and everything. It’s all in the bag. (NOT: ‘the cat’s in the bag and the bag’s in the river,’ though if I branch out into noir, this too will apply.)
Ordering
Can I find your books online and in stores?
Books are available only through this website. You might find a few titles still in stock at Indigo.ca or at your local independent – contact them individually for details.
For US and international readers, books are available only through my website.
I’m a bookstore and would love to stock your titles.
For store orders, get in touch ingrid@ingridpaulson.com
Shipping and handling
Where do you ship?
Gladstone Press ships books to Canada, the US, and internationally – wherever there is regular postal service, really.
How do you ship?
For ease of shipping, Gladstone Press uses Canada Post for delivery. You can select which service level you’d wish when you place your order. Each book is wrapped in paper and sent in a protective envelope, and will be placed in the mail the next business day.
Returns
What is your return policy?
All of my online sales are final. If you’re copy has a printing error, I will gladly exchange it for a copy of the same title.