Focal Point Publications was David Irving's self-publishing house, established to distribute his controversial works, often those rejected by mainstream publishers. It operated internationally, seeking out buyers and translators for Irving's books, particularly those dealing with World War II and related figures. The company's existence highlights Irving's commitment to disseminating his historical interpretations, regardless of mainstream acceptance.
Focal Point Publications served as a vehicle for Irving to control the publication and distribution of his books, allowing him to bypass traditional publishing houses that deemed his content too controversial. The company engaged in printing arrangements with various firms, including Biddle’s Books Ltd, and explored international distribution networks. Irving expressed concern about the perceived "enemy" influence within the British publishing industry, motivating his independent publishing efforts.
* 2014: Matthew P. Gill inquired about reprints of "The War Path," a Goebbels book, and the availability of a Himmler book and the Churchill series. ([diary_2014_temp]) * 2019: Matej explored publishing rights for Czech and Slovak language editions of "Uprising" for the Czech and Slovak markets. ([diary_2019_jan_may]) * 2019: Ernst van Dijk referenced a book ("Deutschland im Visier Stalins") that Irving had mentioned, noting its lack of "creditable publishers." ([diary_2019_jan_may]) * 2021: Irving discussed copyright control of a manuscript and the planned two-part publication of Himmler's life. ([diary_2021]) * 2022: Milen requested permission to publish "Dresden" and "Nuremberg" in Bulgarian, offering $2000 per volume. Discussions also occurred regarding publishing "Hitler's War" in two volumes in Bulgarian. ([diary_2022_jan_jun]) * 2023: Irving mentioned editing Volume III and having it printed in the UK, requiring an advance payment. He also expressed blame for the loss of the British Empire on Churchill. ([diary_2023]) * 2023: Irving stated that Focal Point Publications publishes books "too controversial for mainstream publishing houses" and that they know "where to find buyers." ([diary_2023])
The establishment and operation of Focal Point Publications demonstrate Irving’s determination to control the narrative surrounding his historical interpretations, even in the face of rejection from mainstream publishers. The reliance on international partnerships, particularly in Eastern Europe, suggests a targeted effort to reach audiences beyond the UK and US. Irving's concerns about the British publishing industry reveal a broader worldview and a distrust of established institutions. The shift towards dividing larger works like "Hitler's War" into volumes indicates a strategic approach to maximizing sales and distribution.
Irving Enterprises David Irving's Publishing History Biddle’s Books Ltd Weidenfeld & Nicolson
* [diary_2014_temp] * [diary_2019_jan_may] * [diary_2021] * [diary_2022_jan_jun] * [diary_2023] * [emails_2023_2024]