Last October, 16-year-old Justin M. Anderson started what, to his knowledge, is the first publishing company exclusively for teenage authors (ages 12 to 19). On June 24, Sigma’s Bookshelf, which is run by Justin and his parents, Jamie and Rachel Anderson, officially released its first two titles. The launch party was held at Roseville’s Barnes & Noble bookstore.
Justin just started his junior year at Wayzata High School.
Justin’s own debut sci-fi thriller, Nothing but Trouble, and 13-year-old Ruby Jane Schwieger’s The Murder at Emerson’s are currently available through Sigma’s Bookshelf.
“When we started up the company, it was very important to Justin that teen authors do not have to pay anything to bring their books to market,” says Rachel. “So we secured a fiscal sponsor, Springboard for the Arts, which makes it possible for us to pursue grant money to cover costs. Sigma’s Bookshelf services are totally free for the kids whose books are selected for publication.” To learn more, visit the website here.
