Little Blue Book

Little Blue Book

The Little Blue Book is a series of pocket-sized books that were published by the Haldeman-Julius Publishing Company from 1919 to the early 1970s. These books were designed to provide affordable and accessible literature to the general public, covering a wide range of topics including literature, philosophy, science, history, and self-help.

History

The Little Blue Book series was the brainchild of Emanuel Haldeman-Julius, a publisher and social reformer. He believed that knowledge should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic status. With this vision in mind, he started the Haldeman-Julius Publishing Company in 1919 and launched the Little Blue Book series.

The books were printed on cheap, lightweight paper and were small enough to fit in a pocket. They were sold for a mere five or ten cents, making them affordable for the average person. The low cost and portability of the Little Blue Books made them popular among a wide range of readers, including students, workers, and intellectuals.

Content

The Little Blue Books covered a diverse range of subjects. They included classic works of literature, such as novels, plays, and poetry, as well as non-fiction works on philosophy, science, history, and social issues. Some of the notable authors featured in the series include William Shakespeare, Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, and Friedrich Nietzsche.

The books were often formatted as concise summaries or introductions to various topics, making them accessible to readers with limited time or prior knowledge. They were written in a straightforward and easy-to-understand style, ensuring that readers from all backgrounds could engage with the content.

Impact

The Little Blue Book series had a significant impact on the dissemination of knowledge and the democratization of literature. By making books affordable and portable, Haldeman-Julius made it possible for people from all walks of life to access a wide range of information and ideas.

The series also played a role in promoting social and political reform. Many of the books in the series focused on progressive ideas and social issues of the time, such as women's rights, labor rights, and racial equality. They provided a platform for marginalized voices and helped to shape public opinion on these important topics.

Legacy

Although the Little Blue Book series eventually ceased publication in the early 1970s, its impact can still be felt today. The books are considered collectibles and are sought after by book enthusiasts and collectors. They are also valued for their historical significance in the promotion of accessible literature and the democratization of knowledge.

See Also

• Haldeman-Julius Publishing Company
• Pocket-sized Books
• Literature
• Philosophy
• Science
• History
• Self-help