Betty Prashker, a legendary editor of the 20th century, passed away on July 30 at the age of 99. She was a trailblazer in the industry, one of the first women to have the power to acquire books. Prashker was instrumental in publishing classics like Kate Millett’s “Sexual Politics” and Susan Faludi’s “Backlash”, and she played a key role in shaping the careers of renowned authors such as Jean Auel, Dominick Dunne, and Erik Larson.

Born Betty Arnoff in New York City, Prashker’s journey in the world of publishing began in the 1940s as a reader-receptionist at Doubleday. Despite facing initial rejections, she persevered and eventually rose to become an associate publisher, breaking barriers along the way.

Prashker’s keen eye for talent led her to discover and publish groundbreaking works that challenged societal norms. She was ahead of her time in championing women’s rights and advancing the representation of female voices in literature. Her legacy lives on through the numerous authors she supported and the impactful books she brought into the world.

Throughout her illustrious career, Prashker influenced and inspired generations of writers and readers. Her contributions to the literary landscape are immeasurable, and her passion for storytelling continues to resonate with audiences today.