I'm a huge fan of book subscription services. I'm often perusing bookshops to try and find another novel or five to add to my collection, but having the thrill of ordering a selection of books that somebody else is going to pick out for you is really something special. So, when I got the opportunity to receive a Heady Mix subscription book box just before Christmas, I jumped at the opportunity.
Heady Mix's strapline says it's a service that includes diverse stories for curious minds, and that's apparent from the description and detail given to potential subscribers. This book box aims to showcase emerging writers from underrepresented groups, with categories including women, authors of colour, authors with disabilities, and more. The box pictured above for example was subtitled Loud Silence, with authors from the D/deaf community featured.
Promoting diversity and equality within literature is something that we should all have a more active part in, especially when it comes to underrepresented communities and authors that are just starting out, and trying to make a name for themselves.
The box we received was called Afrofuturism, and included two novels from emerging African writers, as well as an anthology of short stories and essays.
David Mogo, Godhunter by Suyi Davies Okungbowa and Triangulum by Masande Ntshanga were the two novels included, both wildly different but rooted deeply in culture. The anthology meanwhile included works from authors in locations such as Botswana, South Africa, Kenya and Malawai, amongst other places.
This is the essential book subscription service for activists who know the change they want to see in the world, and want to have a hand in helping see it happen. Picking up a subscription could be just the first step on a journey of then promoting the work of these underrepresented authors to a wider audience, and Heady Mix should be celebrated for playing their part in that.
In the current political climate, it's more important than ever before for those of us who promote equality and diversity to stand firm in our beliefs. Heady Mix have hit the nail directly on the head with their service, and I for one cannot wait to see what comes from them in the future.
There are a number of different tiers when it comes to subscribing to Heady Mix. The Heady Mix is priced at £34.50 per box plus £3 deliver and includes two novels and an anthology, delivered every two months. The Select Mix includes one novel and one anthology and is delivered every two months for £24.50 plus £3 delivery. The Light Mix includes an anthology for £14.95 plus £3 delivery and is delivered every two months. The Monthly Mix is delivered each month, including one novel for £12 including delivery. Find out more at www.headymix.co.uk.
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