When Touko Siltala began studying at the University of Helsinki in 1975, he had qualified to major not only in Finnish Literature but also in English Philology and Political History. In the end he completed his Master’s in Finnish Literature.

Many of my memories from the University of Helsinki are anchored in spaces: the incredibly beautiful foyer of the old wing of the Main Building, the rooms of the Department of Finnish Literature on Liisankatu, the hall of the National Library.

– When I started as an editor at WSOY in 1982, there was a lot I had to learn for myself. I made many mistakes and learned something new from each of them. Beginner orientation wasn’t really part of company culture at WSOY in those days, but the spirit and mood in the house was good and encouraging.

The heart of a publishing house is its current publication catalogue. In its nonfiction, Siltala Publishing has specialised in history, biographies, and memoirs – books where writing and language are crucial. Touko Siltala is emphatic about concentrating on one’s own strengths and leaving the rest to others.

The book trade has been in decline for almost a decade. Publisher Touko Siltala is sceptical of a growth spurt being on the cards.

Touko Siltala is regularly in contact with his Alma Mater. Several of the authors of Siltala Publishing are teachers or researchers in history disciplines at the University of Helsinki, and the publishing house works with departments and disciplines at the Faculty of Arts when arranging author visits and launch parties for books.

Despite the problems of the book trade, publishing is still a fantastic field to work in. I truly have reason to be happy today.