Tiny Reparations Books Turns Five
With the support of the publisher, Shelf Awareness celebrates the fifth anniversary of Tiny Reparations Books.
Also published on this date: Indie Booksellers Discuss Facing Harassment & Threats; RIP Peter Lovesey
April 15, 2025 Dedicated Issue: Tiny Reparations Books Celebrates Five Big Years
Editors' Note
Books & Authors
Executive Editor Emi Ikkanda Toasts the Fifth Anniversary of Tiny Reparations Books
Emi Ikkanda
When Phoebe Robinson founded Tiny Reparations Books at Penguin Random House, she wanted her imprint to shake up the publishing world, with its mission to highlight and amplify unique and diverse voices. As we now celebrate the fifth anniversary, we can count among our accomplishments two National Book Award longlist honorees, multiple bestsellers, and nearly 40 acquisitions. We have authors of color, queer authors, and disabled authors with undeniable storytelling talent and bold voices that cut through the noise. In the age of book bans, we know we have to speak up and speak louder, through our books and our work.
There is both cheek and wisdom in a name like Tiny Reparations Books. We can be both a celebration and a movement. Our authors are innovators, artists, and trailblazers, and as publishers, we’re inventing new paths and making waves. We're only getting started with our fifth anniversary, and we know the mission is as important now as ever. --Emi Ikkanda
Founder Phoebe Robinson on Tiny Reparations Books
Phoebe Robinson
Tiny Reparations Books founder Phoebe Robinson is a stand-up comedian, writer, producer, and actress who is the co-creator and co-star of the hit podcast turned HBO series 2 Dope Queens and other podcasts, including Sooo Many White Guys and Black Frasier. She's also the New York Times bestselling author of You Can't Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have to Explain, Everything's Trash, But It's Okay, and Please Don't Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes, Tiny Reparations Books' first title. She has starred in the films Ibiza and What Men Want, and was a moderator for Michelle Obama's Becoming book tour. In 2019, she launched Tiny Reparations, a production company under ABC Signature, whose first series Doing the Most with Phoebe Robinson, premiered April 2021 on Comedy Central. Her debut hour comedy special, Sorry, Harriet Tubman, premiered in October 2021 on HBO Max.
Shelf Awareness asked Robinson about the founding of Tiny Reparations Books, its many accomplishments during its first five years, and plans for the future:
What was your initial mission when you founded the Tiny Reparations Books imprint? How has it evolved?
Tiny Reparations Books started as an imprint where you A) will not be pigeonholed based on your identity and furthermore, B) it's an opportunity to show the totality of the human experience as opposed to the trauma porn that queer people and POCs and women and people with disabilities are encouraged to write. We have fun! We have sex! We are brave. Bold. Funny. Difficult. And challenging in the best way possible. So that's the mission and it will continue to be that. So writers, bring us your messiness, your brilliance, your talent!
What are you and your team most proud of accomplishing in the imprint's first five years?
The robust list! I always wanted this to be a curated imprint, so that each author felt taken care of because they put their hearts and souls into writing their books. And there's nothing worse than giving it your all only to have the marketing or promotion or editing fail you. No author should have to go through that. I believe that's part of the reason why we have such strong author retention, why our books are resonating with readers by not only landing on bestsellers lists, but National Book Awards longlists. We are attracting incredibly talented and prolific authors who are writing everything from K-Drama inspired romance to biographies on luminaries such as Marsha P. Johnson to funny slice of life stories. Every book has its own lane and stands out, which is a testament to the writers and the keen eye that our editors Emi Ikkanda and Lashanda Anakwah have for recognizing strong voices.
Can you share how you came up with the idea for Tiny Reparations Books and the name's significance?
When I met my literary agent Robert Guinsler ten years ago, he knew I wasn't a one and done author. He could probably smell the ambition (and SJP perfume) on me. Haha. Anyway, he asked me what else I wanted to do in publishing outside of the idea I had just pitched him for my first essay collection, You Can't Touch My Hair (& Other Things I Still Have to Explain). I told him I was inspired by Toni Morrison--who isn't?--and I love how as an editor at Random House she edited and supported others' works in addition to writing. I shared that passion of not only wanting to create my art, but to help others. I told Robert that instead of editing, I'd rather have an imprint, and I think Robert appreciated my vision. So the imprint was something that stayed in the back of our minds as I developed as an author.
Whether it's stand-up, television, podcast, or books, a tenet of my work is providing a platform for others. I had received so many dismissive pass letters while selling You Can't Touch My Hair in 2015. Many places told Robert that Black female authors aren't relatable, that my book wouldn't sell, etc. And then it became a New York Times bestseller, the first of three bestsellers. So I knew I was onto something with what eventually became Tiny Reparations Books. While we're still waiting on the gubment, ahem, to pay us our reparations, I've decided that publishing works by people from marginalized communities is my way of paying it forward.
Has the current political climate changed or influenced the imprint's mission in any way?
I think it's made us more vigilant than ever in publishing high quality work. Not only do we want to feel as though we are contributing to the rich tapestry of literature, but we know the value in persisting. In feeling joy. Books are a vehicle for people to see the humanity in others, to feel that the world is not all doom and gloom. To be inspired. It's truly an honor and a privilege to be a part of keeping hope alive.
What's something you'd like booksellers and librarians to know about Tiny Reparations Books?
Well, I think they already know this, but we're young, hungry, passionate, and we're only beginning. We're here to stay, baby! Getting to five years is no easy feat, and they have been integral to our success. So, thank you for believing in us like you do.
Can you share insight about the types of writers you are looking for, and how you know a book is for TRB's list?
Strong voices. Unique point of view. Confidence. A willingness to collaborate. I usually know in the first page or two if a book is for Tiny Reparations Books. I know that sounds wild, but it's true. It's a feeling. It's trusting your gut. And ultimately, writers should write what they want to write. Have it be the most them, undeniable, and it will find a home either with TRB or someplace else.
Lastly, what vision do you have for the imprint in the next five years--and beyond?
To keep publishing powerhouse authors. To have some more bestsellers. To have a book win a National Book Award. And to build a legacy of excellence and artistry that will outlive me. I have the coolest damn job being a publisher. I pinch myself every day.
Tiny Reparations Books Through the Years
Phoebe Robinson
Since its founding in 2020, Phoebe Robinson's Tiny Reparations Books has published bestselling and award-winning titles that have helped push full and honest conversations forward. The imprint has already made a big impact, with much more to come. Some early highlights include: launching with Phoebe Robinson's bestselling essay collection, Please Don't Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes; publishing the first debut fiction title on the list, Kai Harris' What the Fireflies Knew, which was nominated for an NAACP Image Award; and landing an instant New York Times bestseller for TRB with Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li (also nominated for an Edgar Award and longlisted for The Center for Fiction First Novel Prize).
The imprint continued to gain recognition with two back-to-back National Book Award nominees. In 2023, LaToya Watkin's Holler, Child made the longlist in fiction, and last year, Vanessa Angélica Villarreal's Magical/Realism was longlisted for nonfiction.
Most recently, Nussaibah Younis' Fundamentally made the shortlist for the Women's Prize in fiction in the U.K.
With its impressive track record, Tiny Reparations Books hopes to continue making waves in 2025. View their full 2025 roster below:
Fearless and Free: A Memoir by Josephine Baker (2/4/25)
Published in the U.S. for the first time, this is the memoir of the fabulous, rule-breaking, one-of-a-kind Josephine Baker, the iconic dancer, singer, spy, and Civil Rights activist. A LibraryReads February Bonus Pick: Notable Nonfiction.
Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis (2/25/25)
This March Indie Next and Indies Introduce Pick is a wickedly funny and audacious debut novel following an academic who flees from heartbreak and lands in Iraq with a one-of-a-kind job offer—only to be forced to do the work of confronting herself.
Francine's Spectacular Crash and Burn by Renee Swindle (4/15/25)
A heartwarming novel centered on an accidental encounter with a 10-year-old who shows up at Francine Stevenson's doorstep after her mother's sudden death.
Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson by Tourmaline (5/20/25)
In this definitive biography, Black trans luminary Tourmaline brings to life the revolutionary activist Marsha P. Johnson, one of the most important and remarkable figures in LGBTQ+ history, revealing her story, her impact, and her legacy.
Big Asian Energy: An Unapologetic Guide for Breaking Barriers to Leadership and Success by John Wang (5/27/25)
In his groundbreaking leadership book, a top empowerment coach for Asian American professionals across Fortune 500 companies offers research-backed guidance on how to embody their most confident selves in business, relationships, and their everyday lives.
As You Wish by Leesa Cross-Smith (6/24/25)
This heartwarming story of found family, love, and second chances is about three American au pairs in Seoul, Korea, who realize a wish may be all they need to make their dreams come true.
This Kind of Trouble by Tochi Eze (8/5/25)
This dazzling debut novel unfolds across three parallel timelines centered on an estranged older couple who are once again brought together to rid themselves of a century's old curse.
Black-Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore by Char Adams (11/4/25)
NBC News reporter Char Adams offers a deeply compelling and rigorously reported history of Black political movements as told through the lens of the Black-owned bookstore, which have been centers for organizing movements from abolition to Civil Rights to Black Lives Matter.
Eight Million Ways to Happiness: Wisdom for Inspiration and Healing from the Heart of Japan by Hiroko Yoda (12/30/25)
A Shinto cultural historian shares a path to joyful living drawn from Japan's uniquely flexible approach to spirituality and nature, offering a moving and enriching blend of memoir, cultural history, and guidance for anyone struggling with disconnection in the modern world.
Tiny Reparations Books Partners with Little Free Libraries, Indie Bookstores, and Social Influencers Across the Country
To celebrate the five-year anniversary all year long, Tiny Reparations Books is partnering with Little Free Library in May to send books to stewards and communities located in select "book deserts" across the country, including Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Utah, and New Mexico. The collaboration is part of the imprint's driving mission to promote widespread accessibility to help readers discover diverse stories and storytellers.
Tiny Reparations Books will also be offering a limited quantity of curated branded boxes to indie booksellers and social influencers in celebration of the anniversary milestone. Boxes will include advanced copies of Black-Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore by Char Adams (on sale November 4), the must-read history of Black political movements as told through the lens of Black-owned bookstores, along with exclusive swag: a TRB tote bag, holographic stickers, bookmarks, custom notebooks and pens, and a letter from founder Phoebe Robinson.
The imprint will continue to celebrate the five-year anniversary on its socials this summer and fall with ongoing behind-the-scenes staff features, a major sweepstakes where one lucky winner will win an entire library of TRB books, influencer collaborations, and more. To join the fun and stay connected on upcoming activations, follow Tiny Reparations Books on Instagram: @tinyrepbooks.
Editors' Note
Books & Authors
Executive Editor Emi Ikkanda Toasts the Fifth Anniversary of Tiny Reparations Books
|
|
| Emi Ikkanda | |
When Phoebe Robinson founded Tiny Reparations Books at Penguin Random House, she wanted her imprint to shake up the publishing world, with its mission to highlight and amplify unique and diverse voices. As we now celebrate the fifth anniversary, we can count among our accomplishments two National Book Award longlist honorees, multiple bestsellers, and nearly 40 acquisitions. We have authors of color, queer authors, and disabled authors with undeniable storytelling talent and bold voices that cut through the noise. In the age of book bans, we know we have to speak up and speak louder, through our books and our work.
There is both cheek and wisdom in a name like Tiny Reparations Books. We can be both a celebration and a movement. Our authors are innovators, artists, and trailblazers, and as publishers, we’re inventing new paths and making waves. We're only getting started with our fifth anniversary, and we know the mission is as important now as ever. --Emi Ikkanda
Founder Phoebe Robinson on Tiny Reparations Books
|
|
| Phoebe Robinson | |
Tiny Reparations Books founder Phoebe Robinson is a stand-up comedian, writer, producer, and actress who is the co-creator and co-star of the hit podcast turned HBO series 2 Dope Queens and other podcasts, including Sooo Many White Guys and Black Frasier. She's also the New York Times bestselling author of You Can't Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have to Explain, Everything's Trash, But It's Okay, and Please Don't Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes, Tiny Reparations Books' first title. She has starred in the films Ibiza and What Men Want, and was a moderator for Michelle Obama's Becoming book tour. In 2019, she launched Tiny Reparations, a production company under ABC Signature, whose first series Doing the Most with Phoebe Robinson, premiered April 2021 on Comedy Central. Her debut hour comedy special, Sorry, Harriet Tubman, premiered in October 2021 on HBO Max.
Shelf Awareness asked Robinson about the founding of Tiny Reparations Books, its many accomplishments during its first five years, and plans for the future:
What was your initial mission when you founded the Tiny Reparations Books imprint? How has it evolved?
Tiny Reparations Books started as an imprint where you A) will not be pigeonholed based on your identity and furthermore, B) it's an opportunity to show the totality of the human experience as opposed to the trauma porn that queer people and POCs and women and people with disabilities are encouraged to write. We have fun! We have sex! We are brave. Bold. Funny. Difficult. And challenging in the best way possible. So that's the mission and it will continue to be that. So writers, bring us your messiness, your brilliance, your talent!
What are you and your team most proud of accomplishing in the imprint's first five years?
The robust list! I always wanted this to be a curated imprint, so that each author felt taken care of because they put their hearts and souls into writing their books. And there's nothing worse than giving it your all only to have the marketing or promotion or editing fail you. No author should have to go through that. I believe that's part of the reason why we have such strong author retention, why our books are resonating with readers by not only landing on bestsellers lists, but National Book Awards longlists. We are attracting incredibly talented and prolific authors who are writing everything from K-Drama inspired romance to biographies on luminaries such as Marsha P. Johnson to funny slice of life stories. Every book has its own lane and stands out, which is a testament to the writers and the keen eye that our editors Emi Ikkanda and Lashanda Anakwah have for recognizing strong voices.
Can you share how you came up with the idea for Tiny Reparations Books and the name's significance?
When I met my literary agent Robert Guinsler ten years ago, he knew I wasn't a one and done author. He could probably smell the ambition (and SJP perfume) on me. Haha. Anyway, he asked me what else I wanted to do in publishing outside of the idea I had just pitched him for my first essay collection, You Can't Touch My Hair (& Other Things I Still Have to Explain). I told him I was inspired by Toni Morrison--who isn't?--and I love how as an editor at Random House she edited and supported others' works in addition to writing. I shared that passion of not only wanting to create my art, but to help others. I told Robert that instead of editing, I'd rather have an imprint, and I think Robert appreciated my vision. So the imprint was something that stayed in the back of our minds as I developed as an author.
Whether it's stand-up, television, podcast, or books, a tenet of my work is providing a platform for others. I had received so many dismissive pass letters while selling You Can't Touch My Hair in 2015. Many places told Robert that Black female authors aren't relatable, that my book wouldn't sell, etc. And then it became a New York Times bestseller, the first of three bestsellers. So I knew I was onto something with what eventually became Tiny Reparations Books. While we're still waiting on the gubment, ahem, to pay us our reparations, I've decided that publishing works by people from marginalized communities is my way of paying it forward.
Has the current political climate changed or influenced the imprint's mission in any way?
I think it's made us more vigilant than ever in publishing high quality work. Not only do we want to feel as though we are contributing to the rich tapestry of literature, but we know the value in persisting. In feeling joy. Books are a vehicle for people to see the humanity in others, to feel that the world is not all doom and gloom. To be inspired. It's truly an honor and a privilege to be a part of keeping hope alive.
What's something you'd like booksellers and librarians to know about Tiny Reparations Books?
Well, I think they already know this, but we're young, hungry, passionate, and we're only beginning. We're here to stay, baby! Getting to five years is no easy feat, and they have been integral to our success. So, thank you for believing in us like you do.
Can you share insight about the types of writers you are looking for, and how you know a book is for TRB's list?
Strong voices. Unique point of view. Confidence. A willingness to collaborate. I usually know in the first page or two if a book is for Tiny Reparations Books. I know that sounds wild, but it's true. It's a feeling. It's trusting your gut. And ultimately, writers should write what they want to write. Have it be the most them, undeniable, and it will find a home either with TRB or someplace else.
Lastly, what vision do you have for the imprint in the next five years--and beyond?
To keep publishing powerhouse authors. To have some more bestsellers. To have a book win a National Book Award. And to build a legacy of excellence and artistry that will outlive me. I have the coolest damn job being a publisher. I pinch myself every day.
Tiny Reparations Books Through the Years
|
|
| Phoebe Robinson | |
Since its founding in 2020, Phoebe Robinson's Tiny Reparations Books has published bestselling and award-winning titles that have helped push full and honest conversations forward. The imprint has already made a big impact, with much more to come. Some early highlights include: launching with Phoebe Robinson's bestselling essay collection, Please Don't Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes; publishing the first debut fiction title on the list, Kai Harris' What the Fireflies Knew, which was nominated for an NAACP Image Award; and landing an instant New York Times bestseller for TRB with Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li (also nominated for an Edgar Award and longlisted for The Center for Fiction First Novel Prize).
The imprint continued to gain recognition with two back-to-back National Book Award nominees. In 2023, LaToya Watkin's Holler, Child made the longlist in fiction, and last year, Vanessa Angélica Villarreal's Magical/Realism was longlisted for nonfiction.
Most recently, Nussaibah Younis' Fundamentally made the shortlist for the Women's Prize in fiction in the U.K.
With its impressive track record, Tiny Reparations Books hopes to continue making waves in 2025. View their full 2025 roster below:
Fearless and Free: A Memoir by Josephine Baker (2/4/25)
Published in the U.S. for the first time, this is the memoir of the fabulous, rule-breaking, one-of-a-kind Josephine Baker, the iconic dancer, singer, spy, and Civil Rights activist. A LibraryReads February Bonus Pick: Notable Nonfiction.
Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis (2/25/25)
This March Indie Next and Indies Introduce Pick is a wickedly funny and audacious debut novel following an academic who flees from heartbreak and lands in Iraq with a one-of-a-kind job offer—only to be forced to do the work of confronting herself.
Francine's Spectacular Crash and Burn by Renee Swindle (4/15/25)
A heartwarming novel centered on an accidental encounter with a 10-year-old who shows up at Francine Stevenson's doorstep after her mother's sudden death.
Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson by Tourmaline (5/20/25)
In this definitive biography, Black trans luminary Tourmaline brings to life the revolutionary activist Marsha P. Johnson, one of the most important and remarkable figures in LGBTQ+ history, revealing her story, her impact, and her legacy.
Big Asian Energy: An Unapologetic Guide for Breaking Barriers to Leadership and Success by John Wang (5/27/25)
In his groundbreaking leadership book, a top empowerment coach for Asian American professionals across Fortune 500 companies offers research-backed guidance on how to embody their most confident selves in business, relationships, and their everyday lives.
As You Wish by Leesa Cross-Smith (6/24/25)
This heartwarming story of found family, love, and second chances is about three American au pairs in Seoul, Korea, who realize a wish may be all they need to make their dreams come true.
This Kind of Trouble by Tochi Eze (8/5/25)
This dazzling debut novel unfolds across three parallel timelines centered on an estranged older couple who are once again brought together to rid themselves of a century's old curse.
Black-Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore by Char Adams (11/4/25)
NBC News reporter Char Adams offers a deeply compelling and rigorously reported history of Black political movements as told through the lens of the Black-owned bookstore, which have been centers for organizing movements from abolition to Civil Rights to Black Lives Matter.
Eight Million Ways to Happiness: Wisdom for Inspiration and Healing from the Heart of Japan by Hiroko Yoda (12/30/25)
A Shinto cultural historian shares a path to joyful living drawn from Japan's uniquely flexible approach to spirituality and nature, offering a moving and enriching blend of memoir, cultural history, and guidance for anyone struggling with disconnection in the modern world.
Tiny Reparations Books Partners with Little Free Libraries, Indie Bookstores, and Social Influencers Across the Country
To celebrate the five-year anniversary all year long, Tiny Reparations Books is partnering with Little Free Library in May to send books to stewards and communities located in select "book deserts" across the country, including Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Utah, and New Mexico. The collaboration is part of the imprint's driving mission to promote widespread accessibility to help readers discover diverse stories and storytellers.
Tiny Reparations Books will also be offering a limited quantity of curated branded boxes to indie booksellers and social influencers in celebration of the anniversary milestone. Boxes will include advanced copies of Black-Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore by Char Adams (on sale November 4), the must-read history of Black political movements as told through the lens of Black-owned bookstores, along with exclusive swag: a TRB tote bag, holographic stickers, bookmarks, custom notebooks and pens, and a letter from founder Phoebe Robinson.
The imprint will continue to celebrate the five-year anniversary on its socials this summer and fall with ongoing behind-the-scenes staff features, a major sweepstakes where one lucky winner will win an entire library of TRB books, influencer collaborations, and more. To join the fun and stay connected on upcoming activations, follow Tiny Reparations Books on Instagram: @tinyrepbooks.