Community News & Press Releases

In honor of Star Trek Day, Vernon Press is excited to announce a special episode on the New Books Network podcast, featuring co-editors Emily Strand and Amy H. Sturgis. The episode delves into the making of their latest scholarly contribution, Star Trek: Essays Exploring the Final Frontier. This multidisciplinary anthology offers fresh perspectives on the legendary science fiction series, exploring its impact on culture, fandom, and academic scholarship. A Deep Dive into Star Trek Scholarship Star Trek: Essays Exploring the Final Frontier brings together a wide range of academic voices to analyze the franchise from its beginnings in 1966 to its present-day incarnations. Unlike other collections that may focus on just a few aspects of the Star Trek universe, this anthology covers a broad spectrum of themes including social justice, diversity, post-humanism, and the ever-expanding multimedia narratives that Star Trek continues to offer. In this podcast episode, co-editors Emily Strand and Amy H. Sturgis discuss how the book came to life, the collaboration process, and their goal of making this collection accessible to scholars, students, and fans alike. The book is designed to speak to academics across various disciplines, as well as to informed lay readers with a passion for speculative fiction. Behind the Scenes: How the Book Came About During the podcast, Emily and Amy share personal stories about how they became involved with Star Trek and the world of speculative fiction. Amy recounts her early exposure to Star Trek through her family, which led her to pursue a career in academia, earning a PhD in history from Vanderbilt University. Emily, on the other hand, found her way to the Star Trek universe as an adult, after first developing a love for speculative fiction through the Harry Potter series. The editors also discuss how their collaboration with Vernon Press led to the creation of not one, but two scholarly anthologies—Star Trek: Essays Exploring the Final Frontier and Star Wars: Essays Exploring a Galaxy Far, Far Away. Both volumes were met with great enthusiasm in academic circles, and the editors made it a priority to gather essays that would contribute significantly to the field of speculative fiction studies. Exploring Star Trek’s Relevance Today One of the central themes of the book, and of the podcast discussion, is Star Trek’s enduring relevance. Emily and Amy highlight how the franchise continues to resonate with audiences by tackling complex social, political, and philosophical issues. Characters like Seven of Nine, for instance, are explored through lenses such as post-humanism and queerness, providing modern viewers and scholars with rich material for discussion. The anthology also looks at how Star Trek has evolved over time, especially in terms of its engagement with contemporary issues like conspiracy theories, as seen in Star Trek: Voyager. The editors emphasize that Star Trek’s ability to inspire meaningful conversations makes it a vital subject for academic inquiry, as well as a cultural touchstone for fans around the world. The Role of Fandom in Star Trek’s Success Another fascinating aspect covered in both the book and the podcast is the active role Star Trek fans have played in the evolution of the franchise. From fan fiction to conventions, Star Trek fandom has helped shape the franchise into what it is today—a participatory and ever-growing narrative universe. This anthology highlights the importance of fan contributions and how they intersect with academic discussions, further enriching the Star Trek mythos. Listen to the Full Podcast Episode To hear the full discussion on Star Trek: Essays Exploring the Final Frontier, visit the New Books Network podcast here. For those interested in the companion volume, Star Wars: Essays Exploring a Galaxy Far, Far Away, you can also check out the related podcast episode here. About Vernon Press Vernon Press is an independent publisher specializing in the social sciences, humanities, and arts. We are committed to bringing cutting-edge scholarship to a global audience, making complex academic topics accessible to a wider public. Our collaboration with the New Books Network reflects our dedication to fostering thoughtful and engaging conversations across disciplines.

Congratulations to Aleksandra Konarzewska and Anna Nakai, the editors of the book "Voicing Memories, Unearthing Identities: Studies in the Twenty-First-Century Literatures of Eastern and East-Central Europe" for receiving a review appearing in 'The Polish Review' 69.3 (2024), p. 166. Published online on October 1st, 2024. https://doi.org/10.5406/23300841.69.3.20: This anthology analyzes literature from Poland, Hungary, Russia, Czechia, Georgia, Serbia, Estonia, and Ukraine from the point of view of how memories (whether they be memories of World War II, of the Ukrainian Holodomor, or of life under communism) influence how nations construct their twenty-first-century identities. [...] [Extract from book review appearing on 'The Polish Review' 69.3 (2024), p. 166. Published online on October 1st, 2024. https://doi.org/10.5406/23300841.69.3.20] You can find more about the book here: Voicing Memories, Unearthing Identities: Studies in the Twenty-First-Century Literatures of Eastern and East-Central Europe Read the blurbs: In the region known as Eastern and East-Central Europe, the framework provided by memory studies became highly valuable for understanding the overload of interpretations and conflicting perspectives on events during the twentieth century. The trauma of two world wars, the development of collective consciousness according to national and ethnic categories, stories of the trampled lands and lives of people, and resistance to the rule of authoritarian and totalitarian terrors—these trajectories left complex layers of identities to unfold. The following volume addresses the issue of identity as a pivot in studies of memory and literature. In this context, it addresses the question of cultural negotiation as it took shape between memory and literature, history and literature, and memory and history, with the help of contemporary authors and their works. The authors take the literature of countries such as Estonia, Poland, Serbia, Ukraine, and Russia as the point of departure, and explain its significance in terms of geographical, theoretical, and thematic perspectives.

Discover the Journey of Vicente Blasco Ibáñez in Japan Vernon Press is excited to announce a new collaboration with New Books Network for an engaging podcast episode featuring David Taranco’s book Blasco Ibáñez in Japan: 100 Years of a Transoceanic Journey (1923-1924). This episode explores the unique journey of Vicente Blasco Ibáñez, one of Spain’s most renowned authors, journalists, and political figures, during his historic trip to Japan. About David Taranco’s Blasco Ibáñez in Japan David Taranco’s book offers an in-depth look at the chapters dedicated to Japan in Blasco Ibáñez’s famous travelogue La vuelta al mundo de un novelista (A Novelist's Tour of the World). The book includes an annotated edition of these chapters and contextualizes Blasco Ibáñez’s fascination with Japan. Taranco’s work provides a rich analysis of the cultural and historical significance of this journey, shedding light on how Blasco Ibáñez’s time in Japan shaped both his worldview and his literary legacy. How Japan Shaped Blasco Ibáñez’s Vision In the podcast episode, David Taranco explains why Japan became such a central focus for Blasco Ibáñez during his 1923-1924 world tour. Listeners will discover how this visit influenced the Spanish author’s works, including his in-depth analyses of Japanese culture, society, and politics. This episode also highlights how his interactions with local intellectuals helped establish early Spanish studies in Japan, creating long-lasting cultural ties between the two nations. Vernon Press and New Books Network Collaboration This podcast episode is part of Vernon Press’s ongoing partnership with New Books Network, a platform dedicated to making academic research more accessible to a global audience. Through this collaboration, we aim to connect our authors with broader audiences and share important scholarly contributions, like David Taranco’s work on Blasco Ibáñez in Japan. At Vernon Press, we value originality, critical thinking, and intellectual rigor, and this episode showcases these principles perfectly. Why You Should Listen to This Episode If you’re passionate about cultural exchanges, Spanish literature, or Japan’s history, this podcast episode is a must-listen. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the life and travels of Vicente Blasco Ibáñez, a pivotal figure in both Spanish literature and international diplomacy, as seen through the lens of his transoceanic voyage. Don’t miss this insightful discussion! Learn more about Vicente Blasco Ibáñez’s transformative experience in Japan by tuning into the latest episode of New Books Network. Listen to the episode here For more information about David Taranco’s book and other titles from Vernon Press, visit the book's page.

We are thrilled to announce that Angela R. Pashayan's recently published book, Development in Africa's Informal Settlements: Below the Proletariat, has been voted the #1 Best Summer Read of 2024 by students and faculty at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). In this compelling work, Pashayan delves into the intricacies of class dynamics and global inequality, offering a fresh perspective that has resonated with both students and academics alike. Her insightful analysis and engaging narrative have captivated the SAIS community, making Development in Africa's Informal Settlements: Below the Proletariat an essential addition to any summer reading list. The recognition from Johns Hopkins SAIS, a prestigious institution known for its focus on international affairs and policy studies, underscores the book's impact and relevance in today's world. The students and faculty's choice highlights Pashayan's ability to engage readers with timely and thought-provoking content. Angela R. Pashayan, a respected author and scholar, expressed her excitement about the accolade: "I am proud to announce that the students and faculty at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced Int'l Studies (SAIS) voted my book - Below the Proletariat - the #1 Best Summer Read, 2024!" We at Vernon Press are proud to publish such an important work and are excited about the increased visibility this recognition brings. The book's success at Johns Hopkins SAIS is a testament to Angela R. Pashayan's exceptional writing and profound understanding of global socio-economic issues. We invite readers, scholars, and enthusiasts to explore the insights offered in Development in Africa's Informal Settlements: Below the Proletariat. As it continues to make waves in academic circles and beyond, we look forward to seeing its impact grow. For more information and to purchase a copy, please visit Vernon Press's book website.

Exploring the Complexities of Contemporary Spanish Theater: A New Podcast Episode We are excited to announce the release of a new podcast episode on the New Books Network, featuring an in-depth discussion about the recently published bilingual collection, "The Theatre of Twenty-First Century Spain / El teatro de España del siglo XXI." This enlightening episode, part of our collaboration with New Books Network, delves into the vibrant and challenging landscape of contemporary Spanish theater. In Conversation with the Editors In this episode, our host Dessy Vassileva engages with the book's editors, Helen Freear-Papio from the College of the Holy Cross and Candyce Crew Leonard from Wake Forest University. Both editors bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for Spanish theater, sharing their backgrounds and the pivotal moments that shaped their academic journeys. They discuss how the influence of mentors and the magazine "Estreno" significantly impacted their research and scholarly pursuits. Themes of Identity and Social Urgencies "The Theatre of Twenty-First Century Spain" presents nine meticulously researched essays that explore the myriad social immediacies affecting Spain today. The editors highlight how identifying, naming, and belonging provide a sense of rational order and rootedness within societies, yet this order can collapse, threatening stability. As Spain marks its fifth decade as a fully democratic nation, it continues to grapple with its traumatic past, resulting in an identity that remains unfocused and disorganized. Key Topics Explored The essays cover a wide range of pressing issues, including non-heteronormative gender identity, the phenomenon of "fake news," female self-agency and authorship, violence against women, and the need for justice for erased and repressed family histories. These topics are examined through the lens of contemporary Spanish theater, demonstrating how the art form addresses complex social issues and reflects the tensions within current Spanish society. Central to the discussion is the role of theater in addressing immigration, unemployment, gender violence, LGBTQ+ rights, and the historical memory of the Spanish Civil War and the Franco dictatorship. The editors propose that theater is an effective medium for capturing the immediacy of these problems and for fostering dialogue about identity and social change. Tune in to This New Podcast Episode We invite you to tune in to this engaging podcast episode to gain a deeper understanding of the complex and dynamic world of contemporary Spanish theater. Listen as Helen Freear-Papio and Candyce Crew Leonard share their expertise and perspectives on how theater continues to be a powerful tool for social commentary and change. Listen to the full episode on the New Books Network and explore the rich tapestry of themes and discussions presented in "The Theatre of Twenty-First Century Spain" / El teatro de España del siglo XXI." For more information about the book, visit its page here.

Congratulations to Johanna M. Lems (Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain), the author of the book "Tomar la palabra. Islamofobia y participación política después del 15-M" for receiving a review appearing in 'Revista de Estudios Internacionales Mediterráneo', Núm. 36 (2024). Author: Mariví Perez Mateo (Universidad de Alicante): El libro de Johanna M. Lems, 'Tomar la palabra. Islamofobia y participación política después del 15 M', acerca a realidades, escenarios y conceptos ahondando en la dimensión política de la “musulmaneidad” y sus formas de participación y resistencia en la esfera pública española del siglo XXI. El libro arroja luz y acerca de manera eficaz al complejo y amplio marco del pensamiento crítico desde la ciencia política, la sociología y la antropología religiosa. [...] [Resumen de reseña en 'Revista de Estudios Internacionales Mediterráneo', Núm. 36 (2024). Author: Mariví Perez Mateo (Universidad de Alicante)] You can find more about the book here: Tomar la palabra. Islamofobia y participación política después del 15-M Read the blurbs in Spanish: 'Tomar la palabra' es un análisis basado en la búsqueda de justicia social por medio de la participación sociopolítica, que aborda con cuidado muchos de los temas que determinan y contribuyen a reproducir las situaciones de subalternidad y subordinación a las que se ven sometidas las personas musulmanas en España. Desde un posicionamiento novedoso sobre el islam en el contexto español, al abordar su estudio desde la existencia de musulmanidades diversas, contribuye al avance de los estudios sobre la realidad social y política de las poblaciones musulmanas en nuestro país. El principal objetivo de la autora ha sido identificar los procesos mediante los que las personas musulmanas – o aquellas leídas como tales– tratan de ganar voz y reclamar los derechos que les son negados sistemáticamente. Todo ello con el fin de contribuir a una comprensión más crítica y menos estigmatizadora sobre el islam y las personas musulmanas que viven en España. Se trata de un trabajo interdisciplinario que parte de una investigación etnográfica llevada a cabo entre 2017 y 2020 en distintas partes del territorio estatal. Puede resultar de gran interés como monografía para profesores y estudiantes de cursos de grado y posgrado en disciplinas como sociología, antropología, ciencias políticas, ciencias de las religiones. Igualmente, será de utilidad como obra de consulta en estudios de subalternidad, feministas y de migraciones o para trabajadores sociales, líderes y comunidades religiosas, instituciones gubernamentales y aquellas personas u organizaciones centradas en los derechos humanos, el diálogo interreligioso o las que, en general, quieren estar informadas sobre el escenario político contemporáneo español.

Congratulations to Angela R. Pashayan, the author of the book "Development in Africa's Informal Settlements: Below the Proletariat" for receiving a review appearing in the 'Journal of Economic Literature' (Volume 62, no. 2), June 2024. www.aeaweb.org/issues/766: [...] Highlights key issues that are important for effective poverty reduction in informal settlement. [...] [Extract from book review appearing on the 'Journal of Economic Literature' (Volume 62, no. 2), June 2024. www.aeaweb.org/issues/766] You can find more about the book here: Development in Africa's Informal Settlements: Below the Proletariat This book discusses the effectiveness of international development programs in African informal settlements (slums). It also represents the voices of slum dwellers and how they view the programs offered. With over 60% of Africans living in slums, the book intends to foster dialogue among development professionals to determine how to improve service to their clients, people experiencing extreme poverty. This book examines the critical thinking disconnect between development professionals and slum dwellers. It enables practitioners, professors, and their students to investigate the gap between the types of development programs offered versus what is most beneficial to reduce extreme poverty in slum communities. With a sample of 500 residents from Mukuru Slum in Nairobi, Kenya, and 100 development professionals with expertise in poverty reduction in slums, this book sheds light on the similarities and differences between various programs. Most importantly, this book provides a theoretical way forward (The Theory of Extreme Poverty Reduction) based on Freirean pedagogy to stimulate discussion on how to program new strategies for authentic dialogue with slum dwellers that leads to the critical consciousness necessary for successful poverty reduction.

Vernon Press is thrilled to announce an upcoming author's talk featuring Sylvie Blum-Reid, an esteemed scholar and expert in film and cultural studies. This event will take place at the American Library in Paris on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 19:30. Event Details: Date: Tuesday, June 11, 2024 Time: 19:30 - 20:30 Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions. RSVP here. About the Author: Sylvie Blum-Reid is a distinguished academic whose research focuses on film, travel writing, and cultural studies. She is the author of Traveling in French Cinema and East-West Encounters: Franco- Asian Cinema and Literature. Blum-Reid's interests include women and fashion, travel narratives, photography, cinema, culture and expatriate female artists in the interwar period. About the Rountable: In this talk, Sylvie Blum-Reid and the other speakers will discuss themes from the book, providing a comprehensive look at female creativity in interwar Paris. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to delve into the cinematic portrayal of travel and its broader cultural contexts, guided by Blum-Reid's extensive knowledge and expertise. How to Attend: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions. RSVP here. For more information about the edited volume, please visit our website: Impressions from Paris: Women Creatives in Interwar Years France. 30% Discount for all attendees Use code IMPARIS30 which will grant a 30% discount on any copies of Sylvie's book ordered directly on our website (valid until Sunday, June 16).

Join us for an enchanting evening as Vernon Press proudly presents the Spanish version of Ana I. Simón Alegre's book on Concepción Gimeno de Flaquer's literary work at the Museo Nacional de las Culturas Populares. Accompanied by esteemed Mexican writer Daniela Becerra Romo, this event promises to be a celebration of literature and cultural heritage. Event Details: Date: Wednesday, June 26, 2024 Time: 19:00 (Mexico Time) Location: Museo Nacional de las Culturas Populares, Av. Hidalgo 289, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, CDMX. Entry: Free About the Book: Concepción Gimeno de Flaquer (1850-1919) left an indelible mark on literature with her collection of letters, short stories, and journalistic articles. This book, with a version in English and Spanish, explores how Concepción Gimeno de Flaquer’s evolution as a writer was closely linked to the development of her political-literary project, in which a feminist activist agenda plays an important role. This critical edition contributes to existing research on Gimeno de Flaquer by examining a collection of texts that have not been studied in-depth. Special Guests: Joining us for this momentous occasion is the acclaimed Mexican writer Daniela Becerra Romo. Together with the author, they will provide insights and commentary on Concepción Gimeno de Flaquer's literary contributions. How to Attend: Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Spanish literature. Admission is free, and all literature enthusiasts are welcome to join us for an evening of literary exploration and cultural appreciation. For more information and updates, please visit mexicoescultura.com.

Welcome, Star Wars enthusiasts and scholarly explorers! We're excited to announce the release of our latest podcast episode, a special feature that coincides with the fan-celebrated Star Wars Day on May the Fourth and the vibrant festivities of International Geek Day on May 25th. In this episode, we delve deep into the academic galaxy with a focus on the recently published anthology, 'Star Wars: Analytical Essays', edited by the esteemed Emily Strand and Amy H. Sturgis. Why should you tune in? Whether you're a lifelong fan of the saga or a curious academic, this episode offers a unique perspective on the Star Wars universe. We explore how this iconic series not only captivates audiences but also serves as a rich field for scholarly analysis and discussion. Our special guests, Emily and Amy, bring their insights as editors of this multidisciplinary volume, discussing the challenges and triumphs of bringing Star Wars into the academic sphere. Join us as we navigate through the themes of mythology, politics, and philosophy within Star Wars, uncovering how these stories reflect, influence, and critique our world. This episode is not just a celebration of Star Wars as a cultural phenomenon but also an acknowledgment of its impact on various academic disciplines. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between popular culture and scholarly research. Embark on this intellectual adventure by listening to our latest episode, available now wherever you get your podcasts. May the scholarly force be with you! Summary 'Star Wars' is a global phenomenon that in 2022 celebrated its 45th year of transmedia storytelling, and it has never been more successful than it is today. More 'Star Wars' works than ever are currently available or in simultaneous development, including live-action and animated series, novels, comics, and merchandise, as well as the feature films for which the franchise is best known. 'Star Wars' fandom is worldwide, time-tested, and growing; academic interest in the franchise, both inside and outside of the classroom, is high. This accessible and multidisciplinary anthology covers topics across the full history of the franchise. With a range of essays by authors whose disciplines run from culture and religious studies to film, feminism, and philology, Star Wars: Essays Exploring a Galaxy Far, Far Away (Vernon Press, 2023) speaks to academics in the field, students in the classroom, and anyone looking to broaden their understanding and deepen their appreciation for 'Star Wars'.

Announcing Sylvie Eve Blum-Reid's Roundtable at the American Library in Paris Join us on June 11 at 7:30 PM for an insightful roundtable discussion featuring Sylvie Eve Blum-Reid at the American Library in Paris. Blum-Reid, a professor of French and film at the University of Florida, will delve into her latest anthology, Impressions from Paris: Women Creatives in Interwar Years France. The event will explore the contributions of influential women like Josephine Baker, Janet Flanner, and Anaïs Nin to the artistic and cultural landscape of 1920s-1940s Paris. This event is a hybrid format, available both in-person and online. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Blum-Reid and other contributors, including Sherry Ann Buckberrough, Dantzel Cenatiempo, Clara Oropeza, Catherine Portuges, and Samia Spencer. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore the legacy of female creativity in interwar Paris. For more information and to RSVP, visit the American Library in Paris event page. Event Details: Date: June 11, 2024 Time: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Location: American Library in Paris and Online Admission: Free (10€ suggested donation) Mark your calendars and join us for an evening of enriching discussions on women and art in interwar France!

Congratulations to Ivo Ganchev, the editor of the book "Lessons from Regional Responses to Security, Health and Environmental Challenges in Latin America" for receiving a review appearing in the 'LSE Reviews of Books', May 16th, 2024. Reviewer: Tainá Siman (Freie Universität Berlin): [...] the volume examines a diverse range of pressing issues across Latin America from the COVID-19 pandemic onwards, and will be worthwhile reading for anyone interested in Latin America, regionalism (in terms of international institutions) or in one of its three specific agendas (security, health and environment). [Extract from book review on 'LSE Reviews of Books', May 16th, 2024. Reviewer: Tainá Siman (Freie Universität Berlin)] Read the whole review here. You can find more about the book here: Lessons from Regional Responses to Security, Health and Environmental Challenges in Latin America What is the role of regional organizations in maintaining security across different parts of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC)? How did COVID-19 impact states in the region and what types of collective action have helped respond to public health emergencies? In what way is LAC environmental policy formulated and what broader lessons can be drawn for the Global South? This edited volume addresses these questions, revealing the reasons behind the successes and failures of LAC regional responses to collective challenges as well as their limitations and potential for future improvement. It contains 11 chapters, authored by 16 authoritative academics who employ methodologically-diverse perspectives. Each chapter provides insights that would be of interest to scholars, students and policy-makers working on the regional governance of LAC and the Global South. The contributions are thematically organised in three parts and produced with pragmatic considerations in mind, discussing existing and potential real solutions to pressing issues.