University of Wales launches trade imprint

The University of Wales Press is to launch a new trade imprint, Calon, to publish books for general readers. 

Calon, which draws its name from the Welsh word for "heart", will focus on non-fiction writing on Welsh life and culture, "bringing the most exciting new Welsh ideas to a general audience". Publisher Amy Feldman has commissioned five launch titles reflecting "fresh and engaging" stories, to be published in summer and autumn 2022.

Among these are Welsh Food Stories by food historian Carwyn Graves, publishing on 26th May, which investigates the history of traditional Welsh food and the people making it today. Return to My Trees by Matthew Yeomans follows in September 2022, which maps a path through the ancient and modern forests of Wales to explore how people can reconnect with nature.

This will be followed by Rock Legends at Rockfield in September, a revised edition of the 2007 book by Jeff Collins. It tells the story of the world-famous recording studios in Monmouth where records including Oasis’ "What’s The Story (Morning Glory)" and Queen’s "Bohemian Rhapsody" were recorded.

Other titles include An Indigo Summer by Ellie Evelyn Orrell in October 2022, a healing and bereavement memoir which weaves together art, landscape and the art of indigo dying, and Wales on This Day by Huw Rees and Sian Kilcoyne, which offers 366 inspiring stories about Welsh history and culture.

Sales will be handled by Ingram, and distribution via NBN.

“Our name Calon reflects our goal to publish books with Wales at their heart, and to be at the heart of not just Welsh publishing, but publishing in general," Feldman said. "Our ambition is that these books will help give Welsh writers and publishing the same prominence as those from, for example, Scotland and Ireland. While all Calon’s books have a uniquely Welsh flavour, the stories within them resonate regardless of whether you have an existing connection to or knowledge of the country – if you like music and art, food and nature (and much more) then Calon’s books are for you. 

"Though we also believe that after reading them, our readers will become as passionate about Wales’ rich heritage and culture, and its talented writers, as we are.”

Natalie Williams, director of the University of Wales Press, added: “We are very excited to be launching the Calon non-fiction imprint, especially in our centenary year. The press has a treasure trove of fascinating content built over 100 years, but Calon is our opportunity to reach new audiences and tell stories in a fresh and engaging way.

"When readers buy a Calon book, they can be assured that they’ll learn something captivating, can trust what they’re reading, and will enjoy our unique Welsh perspective. We have a hugely passionate and skilled team, paired with talented and knowledgeable authors behind every book, and we very much look forward to hearing what our booksellers and readers all over the world will think.”