A new online Observer bookshop has been launched, coinciding with the paper’s first edition under Tortoise Media following its transfer from the Guardian. The inaugural issue under the new leadership will be published on 27th April.
The Observer Shop, developed with ecommerce book company Monwell, features “curated collections of exceptional books to suit every reader, from literary fiction and graphic novels to sharp political analysis and award-winning poetry”.
Richard Furness, co-CEO at Tortoise Media, said: “We’re thrilled to publish the first edition of the Observer under new ownership on 27th April — reimagined, reinvigorated and marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the world’s oldest Sunday newspaper. Our partnership with Monwell is the perfect complement to this moment.
“It’s all about creating a richer, more engaging experience for our readers – starting with a curated selection of books and soon expanding to a full range of Observer-inspired merchandise. We can’t wait to share it all with our audience.”
Sara Montgomery, founder of Monwell, added: “We are delighted to be working with Tortoise Media to provide their readers with an Observer-branded bookshop service. The Observer has a long history of world-class books coverage, showcasing bold storytelling and a wide range of genres that are often not covered elsewhere. Arts and culture will continue to take centre stage in the Observer and we’re excited to bring our bookselling expertise to this new partnership.”
Prior to the deal with Tortoise Media, the Society of Authors raised concerns about the deal and readers launched a campaign to “Save the Observer”. A number of illustrators, agents and authors – including Philip Pullman, Michael Frayn, Robert Harris, Monica Ali, Mary Beard, Julian Barnes, Frank Cottrell Boyce, Peter Kosminsky, Daisy Lafarge – also backed the campaign.
