This thesis represents an attempt to re-evaluate women's significance in Australian book publishing, especially during its formative years. It identifies over three hundred women who were active in publishing and the book trade in Australia pre-1974. Of these, ten publishers and editors, eight of whom have not previously been the subject of any known academic scrutiny, are selected for case study. The thesis argues that mainstream histories of the book have consistently marginalised women and calls for a re-reading of book culture in Australia.
