Cinco Puntos Press: A Legacy of Multicultural Publishing
Founded in 1985 by novelist Lee Merrill Byrd and poet Bobby Byrd, Cinco Puntos Press established itself as a vital voice in the publishing world. The press dedicated its mission to highlighting multicultural and political perspectives, bridging gaps through literature for both children and adults.
The publisher became particularly renowned for its commitment to the Mexico–United States border region, producing a diverse catalog of fiction and non-fiction. A cornerstone of their output was the creation of bilingual children's books, designed to foster language accessibility and cultural understanding.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1985 by Lee Merrill Byrd and Bobby Byrd.
- Specialization: Multicultural, political, and bilingual literature.
- Regional Focus: The Mexico–United States border region.
- Major Event: Lost National Endowment for the Arts funding in 1999 after publishing Subcomandante Marcos.
- Acquisition: Sold to Lee & Low Books in June 2021.
Political Impact and National Notoriety
Cinco Puntos Press gained significant national attention in March 1999. The press published The Story of Colors / La Historia de los colores, authored by Subcomandante Marcos, the leader of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (an indigenous uprising movement in Mexico).
This publication led to a controversial decision by the National Endowment for the Arts to withdraw its funding from the publisher. However, the press found support from the Lannan Foundation, which provided funding double the amount that had been lost. The public response to the book was overwhelming, with the first printing selling out within days.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Transition to Lee & Low Books
After decades of operating as an independent voice for border literature and political discourse, Cinco Puntos Press entered a new chapter. In June 2021, the press was sold to Lee & Low Books, a publisher also known for its commitment to diverse voices in children's literature.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founders | Lee Merrill Byrd and Bobby Byrd |
| Year Established | 1985 |
| Primary Focus | Bilingual and border-region literature |
| Notable Author | Subcomandante Marcos |
| Current Owner | Lee & Low Books (since June 2021) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Cinco Puntos Press?
The press was founded in 1985 by novelist Lee Merrill Byrd and poet Bobby Byrd.
What type of books did Cinco Puntos Press specialize in?
They focused on multicultural and political works, specifically bilingual children's books and literature regarding the Mexico–United States border region.
Why did the National Endowment for the Arts pull funding from the press?
Funding was withdrawn in 1999 following the publication of The Story of Colors / La Historia de los colores by Subcomandante Marcos.
Who is Subcomandante Marcos?
Subcomandante Marcos is the leader of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation in Mexico.
What happened to Cinco Puntos Press in 2021?
In June 2021, Cinco Puntos Press was sold to Lee & Low Books.