“This is a thrilling collection, amply demonstrating that Busby’s sensitivity and confidence as an editor were rooted in her own considerable literary ability” Times Literary Supplement

“The record of one woman’s lifelong passion for the literature and life of Africa and its diaspora, wherever she finds it. A beautiful collection” Zadie Smith

With little attention previously given to her own skills as a writer, Part of the Story is a unique opportunity to enjoy Margaret Busby’s own remarkable literary output. It brings together her writings on people, places, politics and publishing, and provides a rich insight into the many elements that have contributed to shaping her life, from her childhood in Ghana to the Black writers, intellectuals, artists and activists she has worked with, befriended, supported and championed for over half a century.

“This fascinating and simply fantastic book is a comprehensive record of Margaret Busby’s exceptional life story, unparalleled career and deep knowledge of black culture and literature . . . A true trailblazer, we all walk in the deep imprints of her footsteps” Bernardine Evaristo

“Her own voice is glorious, allowing her erudition and strength to shine through. An important and wonderful book.” Irish Times

“Margaret Busby is one in a million, a pivotal figure in the literary world, a champion of the unheard, a fighter for literary excellence” Lemn Sissay

“A vibrant historical document and a collection of writings about a life of substance . . . It is because of a handful of people like Margaret Busby that today's contemporary British cannon is diverse at all” Monique Roffey

“A legend of British publishing . . . Margaret Busby championed important writers from a wide range of communities at a time no one else was doing so. Her taste was impeccable and she helped widen the scope of literatures available to the nation” Ben Okri

“A very special work of non-fiction from one of publishing's most iconic figures . . . From politics and publishing to her own childhood in Ghana and the circle of writers who surround her, this is an absolute 2026 highlight” Elle

“Margaret Busby wears her fame as a trailblazer and ‘daughter of Africa' lightly in this entertaining and erudite collection of writing. It is a testament to her wide-ranging talents, as well as to her status as a pioneer in the (still) white-dominated fields of publishing and journalism” Lindsey Hilsum

“This inspiring collection beautifully showcases Margaret Busby's pioneering work as a champion of literature . . . Margaret is a courageous pioneer in the publishing world, a tireless champion of writers and literature, a wonderful scholar and critic, also a personage whose generous, graceful, humorous spirit warms all those who know her” Michèle Roberts

“Margaret has never lost sight of what is important, keeping the faith throughout. What a woman, what a warrior!” Val Wilmer