Radical Chapters: Pacifist Bookseller Roy Kepler and the Paperback Revolution - Hardcover

Doyle, Michael

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0815610068 ISBN 13: 9780815610069

Publisher: Syracuse University Press, 2012

Synopsis

Long a hub for literary bohemians, countercultural musicians, and readers interested in a good browse, Kepler’s Books and Magazines is one of the most influential independent bookstores in American history. When owner Roy Kepler opened the San Francisco Bay Area store in 1955, he led the way as a pioneer in the ""paperback revolution."" He popularized the once radical idea of selling affordable books in an intellectually bracing coffeehouse atmosphere. Paperback selling was not the only revolution Kepler supported, however. In Radical Chapters, Doyle sheds light on Kepler’s remarkable contributions to pacifism and social change. He highlights Kepler’s achievements in advocating radical pacifism during World War II, antinuclear activism during the Cold War era, and antiwar activism during the Vietnam War. During those decades, Kepler played an integral role, creating a community and a space to exchange ideas for such notable figures as Jerry Garcia, Joan Baez, and Stewart Brand. Doyle’s fascinating chronicle captures the man who inspired that community and offers a moving tribute to his legacy.

About this title

Review:

The book's text is enhanced by Doyle's skill in melding the voices of Kepler and his colleagues to tell the story of the peace activist and his bookstores. A superbly researched and written book.--Camille McCutcheon, University of South Carolina Upstate "Journal of American Culture "

About the Author:

Michael Doyle is a reporter in the Washington, D.C. bureau of the McClatchy newspaper chain. He holds a master’s degree in government from Johns Hopkins University and a master of studies in law from Yale Law School, where he was a Knight Journalism Fellow. He is the author of Forestport Breaks: A Nineteenth-century Conspiracy along the Black River Canal.

About this edition

• Publisher: Syracuse University Press
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 0815610068
• ISBN 13: 9780815610069
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 448