This cutting-edge move is being discussed in many publishing houses in an attempt to stay current with the present economic climate, but few have yet to implement it. RainTown’s decision to adopt this model from title one on, is sending a confident message about their perception for the future of books, and their role in this advancement.

“This is where we see publishing going, and we want to be on the forefront of this wave,” states Anna Noak, Associate Publisher for RainTown. “We want readers to be able to make the choice that works best for them. The expectation is that many publishers will be transitioning to this model in the future.” Embracing this uncharted territory, RainTown is sure to draw attention—keep an eye out for the next move they make.

RainTown Press is dedicated to encouraging young readers to become lifelong readers and lovers of great literature. RainTown Teaching Classics and RainTown Originals aim to engage young readers in a way that will exemplify and perpetuate America’s great book tradition and reading culture. They make it their mission to help give rise to young voices, speaking directly to the spirit they embody, through their books and other multimedia endeavors.

We’ve given the blog a bit of a makeover, and moved it over to its own space: Blogtown. This old blog is only going to be updated with press releases and RainTown news–all the fun stuff will be over on Blogtown, so update your bookmarks, and look for us there!

As an author, there’s a moment when noble emotions such as “admiration” and “respect” for a fellow scribe cross over into outright, green-eyed jealousy. And, about midway through reading Molly E. Johnson’s page-turning debut Spartacus and the Circus of Shadows, my appreciation for her quirky, breezy style quickly gave way to wanton prose-envy of the worst kind. The “E” surely stands for either “Effortless,” “Eclectic,” or perhaps “Eunice”…I can’t be sure. Only someone with the middle name of Eunice, like a creepy secret hidden at the nougaty center of their name, could create a charming outsider such as Spartacus Zander, AKA “Poop Lip.”

As exotic as his name is, Spartacus grounds the fantastical events of his story in a deeply affecting and relatable way. His insights and feelings at being a runaway in a difficult situation at a difficult age hold your metaphoric hand as Johnson leads you, circuitously, to the inevitable big showdown at the Big Top. But it’s the various roadside attractions and delightful deviations along the way that make her story sparkle like the creepy-shiny eyes of a carnie. Seriously: your mind will do advanced yoga moves at the story’s twisting twists and—at times—stomach-turning turns. But I’m a better person for every mile spent with Spartacus on his darkly comic road trip. And, if you’re from inner- or even outer-Portlandia, you will derive extra joy from the numerous inclusions of various beloved landmarks, twisted like a helium-filled balloon animal into Johnson’s wonderful story.

— Dale E-for-Eunice Basye

So, as it turns out, that the only thing cooler than making the books we love, is when authors of other books we love give praise for the books we make. Thanks, Dale. It means the world coming from you.

Order a copy of Spartacus RIGHT NOW. (instant gratification rules!)

“Molly E. Johnson’s debut novel, Spartacus and the Circus of Shadows is a humorous novel with unforgettable characters and an unpredictable ending. I loved the travelers Spartacus ends up with. Spartacus’ quest is hilarious and even a bit heartbreaking. It’s a fun novel that is hard to put down. I loved the twist of a not so happily ever after ending. Anybody who has ever had an older brother will love the sibling dynamics. The author does a great job with the theme of loving and accepting others, especially your own family. My twelve year old and seventeen year old sons like the novel as well.  Highly recommended for the middle school reader or ages 10-14.”