Chapbooks

Illustration from http://www.doverpublications.com/designsampler/1226/

Lately I’ve noticed the term “chapbook” turning up a lot. Being published in one is often part of the prize included with contests, and I didn’t know what type of document this was. So, of course, I looked it up. The term “chapbook” refers to a category of small booklets and has been used since the 16th century. Use of the word died down by the late 19th century, but is turning up again—I would assume the ease of desktop publishing has contributed to its revival. Wikipedia states use of the word probably started because certain traveling sellers were called “chapmen” and it is likely the original “chapbooks” were part of their wares.