My Wish Lists Login / Join

Radical Chapters

Pacifist Bookseller Roy Kepler and the Paperback Revolution

By: Michael Doyle

Write A Review

Paperback | 15 November 2024

At a Glance

Paperback
450 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
22.86 x 15.24 x 3.18

Paperback

RRP $57.99

$47.75

18%OFF

or 4 interest-free payments of $11.94 with

Ships in 5 to 10 business days

Long a hub for literary bohemians, countercultural musicians, and readers interested in a good browse, Kepler's Books and Magazines is one of the most influential independent bookstores in American history. When owner Roy Kepler opened the San Francisco Bay Area store in 1955, he led the way as a pioneer in the ""paperback revolution."" He popularized the once radical idea of selling affordable books in an intellectually bracing coffeehouse atmosphere.

Paperback selling was not the only revolution Kepler supported, however. In Radical Chapters, Doyle sheds light on Kepler's remarkable contributions to pacifism and social change. He highlights Kepler's achievements in advocating radical pacifism during World War II, antinuclear activism during the Cold War era, and antiwar activism during the Vietnam War. During those decades, Kepler played an integral role, creating a community and a space to exchange ideas for such notable figures as Jerry Garcia, Joan Baez, and Stewart Brand. Doyle's fascinating chronicle captures the man who inspired that community and offers a moving tribute to his legacy.

In a new foreword for this revised edition, Doyle updates Kepler's story and assesses how the bookstore and the community it serves have remained socially engaged and commercially viable amid the tumult of the twenty-first century.

Industry Reviews

In generous, elegant prose, Doyle traces Kepler's life and times from World War II as a radical pacifist, antinuclear activist during the Cold War, and antiwar activist from the Vietnam War to his death in 1994."" - San Francisco Chronicle ""The book's text is enhanced by Doyle's skill in melding the voices of Kepler and his colleagues to tell the story of the peace activist and his bookstores. A superbly researched and written book."" - Camille McCutcheon, Journal of American Culture

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.