Second Story Press, established in Toronto in 1988, is an internationally acclaimed independent Canadian publishing house. Founded by Margie Wolfe and a dedicated collective of feminist activists, the press was created to fill a void in the literary world by providing a platform for women’s voices and social justice narratives that were often marginalized by mainstream publishers.
Editorial Philosophy and Social Impact
For over 35 years, Second Story Press has maintained an unwavering commitment to publishing books that advocate for equality and human rights. Its catalog is structured around three key pillars:
Feminist Fiction and Non-Fiction: The press publishes thought-provoking works that explore the diverse lives of women, addressing themes of resilience, identity, and social reform.
Diverse Children’s and YA Literature: It is a leader in producing books for young readers that promote inclusivity, challenge gender norms, and encourage global citizenship.
The Holocaust Remembrance Series: The press gained global fame with the award-winning book Hana’s Suitcase. Its extensive series on the Holocaust serves as a vital educational tool, teaching young generations about tolerance and human dignity.
Global Reach and Artistic Excellence in 2025
As of 2025, Second Story Press continues to be a vibrant and influential force in the Canadian cultural scene. Its titles are distributed worldwide and have been translated into over 50 languages. The press remains committed to sustainable publishing practices and artistic integrity, ensuring that every book is not just a source of information, but a tool for social change. For authors, being published by Second Story means joining a community that values progress, diversity, and the power of storytelling to build a better world. [1, 6]