David Philip Publishers: Shaping the South African Literary Canon
Founded during a period of intense political turmoil, David Philip Publishers emerged as a pivotal force in the literary landscape of Southern Africa. Established in 1971 by David Philip and his wife and business partner, Marie Philip, the firm was driven by a clear and courageous mission: to publish "books that matter for Southern Africa" and to actively challenge the oppressive apartheid regime.
The publishers became a sanctuary for voices that were often silenced or marginalized, providing a platform for some of the most significant figures in African and South African literature. Their commitment to intellectual freedom allowed them to navigate the darkest days of censorship, ensuring that critical perspectives reached the public.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1971 by David and Marie Philip.
- Core Mission: Publishing works that challenged the apartheid regime and mattered to Southern Africa.
- Notable Authors: Published Nobel laureates Nadine Gordimer and Wole Soyinka.
- Major Contribution: Created the Africasouth paperback series to revive inaccessible Southern African works.
- Current Status: Now part of New Africa Books, owned by the Sisulu family.
A Legacy of Literary Courage
David Philip Publishers is renowned for its association with literary giants. Beyond Nobel Prize winners, the house published a diverse array of influential writers, including Mongane Wally Serote, Ivan Vladislavic, Alan Paton, Miriam Tlali, Pauline Smith, and Mandla Langa. Their catalogue served as a vital record of the human experience under systemic oppression.
The impact of their work was recognized by the authors themselves. In 1992, Nadine Gordimer praised the founders for their bravery, noting that they started an independent firm during a time of severe censorship with an "unintimidated aim" to publish quality literature. Following David Philip's death in 2009, Ben Williams, the former books editor of the Sunday Times (South Africa), described Philip as a "colossus" who shaped the modern South African English canon more than any other individual.
The Africasouth Series
One of the company's most significant achievements was the Africasouth paperback series. This groundbreaking initiative was dedicated to republishing essential works of Southern African literature that had become difficult to access. The series was inclusive, featuring writers from Africa south-of-the-Sahara, historical texts dating back to 1911, and books that had only recently been unbanned by the government.
By 1985, the Africasouth series had expanded to include titles by prominent authors such as Stephen Gray, Guy Butler, Can Themba, Todd Matshikiza, and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o.
| Period/Event | Key Details |
|---|---|
| 1971 | Founded by David and Marie Philip to challenge apartheid. |
| 1985 | Africasouth series established a wide range of accessible African literature. |
| 1999 | Acquired by New African Investments Limited after the Philips' retirement. |
| Post-1999 | Merged to form New Africa Books; currently owned by the Sisulu family. |
| 2013 | Donation of 25,000 children's books to the Nal'ibali Literacy Project. |
Transition to New Africa Books
Following the retirement of David and Marie Philip in 1999, the company underwent a significant transition. It was purchased by New African Investments Limited, which holds the distinction of being the first black-owned business on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The firm was subsequently merged with two other publishers to create New Africa Books.
Zwelakhe Sisulu, a journalist, editor, and co-founder of New African Investments, became the major shareholder, and the company remains under the ownership of the Sisulu family today. The legacy of literacy and community support continued in 2013, when Shaka Sisulu, New Africa Books, and the Sisulu family donated 25,000 children's books to the Nal'ibali Literacy Project in memory of Zwelakhe Sisulu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded David Philip Publishers?
The company was founded in 1971 by David Philip and his wife and business partner, Marie Philip.
What was the primary goal of the publishing house?
Their goal was to publish books that were significant for Southern Africa and that challenged the apartheid regime.
What was the Africasouth series?
Africasouth was a paperback series designed to republish important but inaccessible works of Southern African literature, including unbanned books and historical texts dating back to 1911.
Which Nobel laureates were published by the firm?
The firm published Nobel Prize laureates Nadine Gordimer and Wole Soyinka.
What happened to the company after 1999?
After the founders retired, the company was bought by New African Investments Limited and merged with two other publishers to form New Africa Books, which is currently owned by the Sisulu family.