The Genesis

LivenBooks was born out of a pressing need to create an inclusive publishing platform that could cater to the unique voices of immigrant, migrant, displaced, and refugee writers. Founded in 2022 by Gabriel Ndayishimiye, the non-profit organization was established to address the systemic challenges these writers face in the mainstream publishing industry. Gabriel's vision was to provide marginalized writers with the tools, resources, and opportunities necessary to share their stories with the world.

The Mission

From its inception, LivenBooks has been driven by a clear mission: to offer an inclusive publishing platform that actively seeks out and promotes underrepresented voices. The organization aims to bridge the gap between these writers and the readers who can benefit from their unique perspectives. By doing so, LivenBooks not only enriches the literary landscape but also fosters greater cultural understanding and empathy.

Overcoming Challenges

Writers from immigrant, migrant, displaced, and refugee backgrounds often encounter significant obstacles in the publishing world. Their works are frequently marginalized and rejected by mainstream publishers, and they lack access to the resources and support networks that many other writers take for granted. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited professional connections further complicate their efforts to get published.

LivenBooks was created to dismantle these barriers. By offering intuitive formatting and design tools, the organization ensures that writers can produce professional-quality books. Templates for covers and interiors, partnerships with major retailers, and marketing support through social media and email campaigns are just some of the ways LivenBooks helps these writers navigate the complex publishing landscape.

Early Milestones

Since its founding, LivenBooks has achieved several significant milestones. The publication of works by two remarkable authors, Bernard (Bernie) Gilmore and E. Vin Mudah, marked the organization's initial success. Bernie’s book, “Heart of Africa,” details his involvement with a team of volunteers from London, Ontario, who collaborated with the Kinsmen African Medical Relief during the Ethiopian famine in the late 1980s. Mudah’s book, “My Father’s Son,” narrates the journey of Dr. Mwiza, a Rwandan medical doctor who fled his country after the 1994 genocide to start anew in exile.

These early publications not only showcased the talents of the writers but also demonstrated the potential of LivenBooks to make a meaningful impact in the publishing world.

Expanding Horizons

As LivenBooks grew, it continued to expand its offerings and support more writers. One of the organization’s upcoming publications is “Blackberry” by Radha S. Menon, a play that explores the persistent stain of colonialism from the perspective of IBPOC youth. This work reflects LivenBooks’ commitment to diversity and inclusion, seeking to highlight voices that are often unheard in mainstream literature.

In addition to publishing books, LivenBooks organizes events and workshops to promote literacy and cultural understanding within the communities it supports. These activities not only help writers improve their craft but also foster a sense of community and shared purpose.

The Importance of CIP Data

An important feature of LivenBooks’ publications is the inclusion of Cataloging in Publication (CIP) data. This ensures that the books meet library standards and facilitates easier cataloging by libraries to make them more accessible to readers worldwide.

The Future of LivenBooks

Looking ahead, LivenBooks aims to continue its mission of empowering marginalized writers to enrich the literary world with diverse voices. The organization plans to expand its reach, support more writers, and bring more unique and powerful stories to life. With each new publication, LivenBooks moves closer to its goal of creating a more inclusive and empathetic world through literature