Before Toni Morrison became a Nobel Prize-winning novelist, she was a groundbreaking editor at Random House who quietly revolutionized American publishing.
In her revelatory book Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer's Legendary Editorship, Dr. Dana A. Williams unveils the untold story of Morrison's sixteen years behind the editorial desk. From 1967 to 1983, Morrison championed over fifty works, publishing Angela Davis, Muhammad Ali, Toni Cade Bambara, Gayl Jones, and many others. She pushed boundaries, elevated emerging voices, and insisted that Black literature be taken seriously at a time when mainstream publishing largely ignored or tokenized Black writers.
What made Morrison's editorial vision so revolutionary? She didn't just recognize great writing, she shaped how books were marketed, fought for authentic representation, and mentored a generation of authors in the wake of the Black Arts Movement.
Dr. Dana A. Williams shares her book Toni at Random with host Garvia Bailey and discusses the editorial genius that stands alongside Toni Morrison's celebrated fiction.
Ticket registration for this event is required: Free tickets for this event are available to book via Eventbrite.
About this event's guests:
Dr. Dana A. Williams
Garvia Bailey
Read More:
Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer's Legendary Editorialship
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PLAN YOUR VISIT:
Location: Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street), 2nd floor
Time: Doors open 6:00pm, Event starts 7:00pm.
Tickets: Free registration required.
Ticket policy: We oversell these events to ensure that the greatest number of people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets guaranteed until 6:45pm or until capacity is reached. Seating first come, first served.
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This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.
This event is also part of TPL's Black History and Culture Series.
Presenting Sponsor of Heritage Programs: TD Bank Group, through the TD Ready Commitment
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Accessibility
Live or automated closed captioning, sign language interpretation, intervenor services, or attendant services are available upon request. Please submit your request at least 2 weeks in advance to: tpl.ca/accessibility-events.