In their words
What people say
Small Press Distribution has been described in print for more than twenty years by publishers, booksellers, writers and industry groups. Here is a selection of what they said, with a link to the source of every quote so you can read it in full.
Published words, in full
“It existed to help writers and readers find each other.”
“SPD's service makes it possible for independents, as well as chains, to have a vital contemporary poetry section.”
“Critical to making independent books accessible to readers.”
“A critical partner for hundreds of independent literary publishers.”
“It looked like they were bringing SPD into the 21st century.”
“SPD will be deeply missed by publishers and authors throughout the literary community.”
These statements describe the original Small Press Distribution organization. Each links to its source in the sections below.
What Publishers, Booksellers and Writers Have Said
These are public statements about the original Small Press Distribution organization and its place in independent publishing. We show them as they were published, and we do not edit them.
“It existed to help writers and readers find each other.”
“SPD's service makes it possible for independents, as well as chains, to have a vital contemporary poetry section.”
“Critical to making independent books accessible to readers.”
“A critical partner for hundreds of independent literary publishers.”
“It looked like they were bringing SPD into the 21st century.”
“SPD will be deeply missed by publishers and authors throughout the literary community.”
The Poetry Foundation also pledged $150,000 to help nonprofit poetry presses affected by the original organization's closure, which shows how much the community valued it. Learn more in our history of Small Press Distribution or explore the data in our bestseller archive.
Reviews From Authors We Work With
Reviews from authors we work with today appear here as they give written permission. We never write a review ourselves, never pay for one and never edit what an author says. After each project we send a short set of questions about communication, quality, schedule and value, and authors choose whether their name is shown.
How to Judge Book Publishing Reviews
- Look for specifics. A review that names a stage, a deadline or a result is more useful than general praise.
- Check where it was posted. Reviews on independent platforms are harder to shape than quotes on a company site.
- Read the critical ones. A mix of strong and mixed reviews usually means nothing has been filtered.
- Ask for a call. A past author can tell you things no testimonial can.
How We Handle Feedback, Good and Bad
Every comment goes to your project manager, and anything critical goes to a senior member of the team within one business day. Read more about the standards we hold ourselves to on our about page, compare packages on our pricing page, or look at the portfolio.
FAQs
Where do these quotes come from?
Every quote comes from a published article or statement, and each one links to its source. They were said about the original Small Press Distribution organization by publishers, booksellers and writers.
Are these reviews of your current services?
No. They describe the Small Press Distribution name and its role in independent publishing. Reviews from authors who work with us today appear here once they give written permission.
Can I speak to a past author?
Often, yes. Ask your consultant and we will ask whether an author in your genre is happy to talk. We never share contact details without permission.
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