Henry Regnery (1912–1996)

"Memoirs of a Dissident Publisher" is a captivating memoir by Henry Regnery, a maverick book publisher who left an indelible mark on the literary world. Through his fascinating recollections, Regnery sheds light on the often-overlooked role of independent publishers in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of America. His insights on some of the most important books of the 20th century make for compelling reading, including works such as George Orwell's "Animal Farm," Russell Kirk's "The Conservative Mind," and William F. Buckley Jr.'s "God and Man at Yale." Regnery's accounts of his encounters with notable authors like William Faulkner and T.S. Eliot are equally captivating, offering a glimpse into the personalities and creative processes of some of the greatest minds of the era.

One of the strengths of this book is its ability to inspire readers to seek out the works that Regnery discusses. As the reviewer, I was motivated to explore these older works that provided a more nuanced and contemporary understanding of historical events. One example is "God and Man at Yale," which Regnery published in 1951, and which still resonates today in the ongoing debate about free speech on college campuses. Another is "The Conservative Mind," which is credited with laying the foundation for the modern conservative movement. Regnery's stories about the authors and their works are fascinating, and his insider perspective on the publishing industry is a unique and valuable addition to the literary canon.

Overall, "Memoirs of a Dissident Publisher" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of American publishing, conservative thought, or the intellectual and cultural developments of the 20th century. As Regnery himself wrote, "To publish is to take risks, to put oneself on the line, to suffer the barbs and insults of critics and reviewers, and, above all, to have faith in oneself and in one's authors." This book is a testament to the power of that faith and the legacy of a remarkable publisher.… (més)