Charles Scribner Jr.

Easton Press Charles Scribner Jr. books

In The Company of Writers: A Life in Publishing - signed first edition - 1990

Charles Scribner Jr. biography

Charles Scribner Jr., born on October 18, 1921, was an esteemed American publisher and the grandson of Charles Scribner, the founder of the renowned publishing house Charles Scribner's Sons. He was born into a family deeply entrenched in the world of literature and publishing, inheriting a legacy that he would uphold and expand upon throughout his lifetime. Growing up in New York City, Scribner developed a profound appreciation for literature and the publishing industry from an early age. After graduating from Phillips Exeter Academy, he attended Princeton University, where he continued to foster his passion for literature and writing. Upon completing his education, Scribner joined the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, serving as a bombardier in the Pacific theater. Following the war, Scribner returned to the world of publishing, joining his family's business, Charles Scribner's Sons, which had already established itself as a venerable institution in the literary world. Under his leadership, the publishing house continued to flourish, becoming synonymous with quality literature and fostering the careers of many acclaimed authors.

Scribner's tenure as president of Charles Scribner's Sons, which began in 1966, marked a period of significant growth and innovation for the company. He oversaw the publication of numerous groundbreaking works of literature, including Ernest Hemingway's A Moveable Feast, F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, and Thomas Wolfe's Look Homeward, Angel, among others.

In addition to his contributions to the publishing industry, Scribner was also a staunch advocate for freedom of speech and expression. He played a key role in challenging censorship laws and defending the rights of authors to write and publish without fear of persecution or censorship. Scribner's dedication to literature and his commitment to upholding the values of his family's publishing legacy earned him widespread respect and admiration within the literary community. He was known for his keen editorial insight, his unwavering integrity, and his tireless efforts to promote and celebrate great literature.

Charles Scribner Jr. passed away on November 11, 1995, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to shape the world of literature and publishing to this day. His contributions to the literary world and his commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the publishing industry, ensuring that his family's name remains synonymous with literary quality and integrity.