Baileys helps to re-release 25 novels under authors’ true names

Baileys has teamed up with the Women’s Prize for Fiction to re-release 25 novels by female authors published under male pseudonyms with their actual names.

Giving the authors the credit they deserve, the ‘Reclaim Her Name’ initiative will see 25 novels re-released, championing female writers throughout the ages who faced sexism and prejudice while trying to get their works published.

Among the books in the collection are Middlemarch by Mary Ann Evans (George Eliot) A Phantom Lover by Violet Paget (Vernon Lee); and Indiana by Amantine Aurore Dupin (George Sand). All works in the series boast contemporary cover designs by female illustrators.

Middlemarch author Mary Ann Evans wrote under the name George Eliot

Throughout history, many female writers have written under male pseudonyms in order for their works to be published and taken seriously by society.

The campaign aims to encourage a conversation around the ongoing challenges women face in publishing and authors’ many reasons for using a pseudonym.

While things have improved significantly, female authors still experience gender bias and some use male pseudonyms as a way to level the playing field.

“Baileys has been a sponsor of the Women’s Prize for Fiction for many years, and together we have been dedicated to honouring, celebrating and championing women’s writing,” Women’s Prize for Fiction founder director, Kate Mosse. Said.

“The Reclaim Her Name campaign is a lovely way to celebrate the 25^th year of the prize by empowering women, igniting conversations and ensuring that they get the recognition they deserve,” Mosse added. 

“Through Reclaim Her Name we are excited to extend this celebration of literary achievement to authors who concealed their gender on their work – shining a spotlight on these incredible female storytellers,” said Adrienne Gammie, marketing director for Baileys.

The Reclaim her Name series can be downloaded in e-book format for free here.