When we think of dime novels today, more than likely all mass-produced pulp fiction from the early 19th century to the first part of the 20th come to mind. The term, however, was specifically derived from the Dime Novel Library, published by Beadle and Adams of New York. They published their first volume June 9, 1860 – Malaeska, the Indian Wife of the White Hunter by Mrs. Ann Stevens. Every month, leading to every two weeks, a new volume was published. Initially, these books were smaller in size with pale orange covers, complete with cover art and illustrations. They were written by well-respected authors. And while the content was full of action, adventure, and romance, it was intended for the whole family – upholding the strong moral values of the age. Over time, however, they became more sensationalized – more gruesome, more vile, more risque. Many argued – and still argue today – that dime novels were key to the breakdown, not only of literature, but society as a whole. Thus dime novels continue to spark the age-old question: is media the cause or merely a reflection?
OOh, I want to read this!!