Definition & Meaning of "chapbook"

What is a "chapbook"?

A chapbook is a small booklet or pamphlet that typically contains poetry, short stories, or essays. It is often a limited edition or self-published work, and its compact size makes it easy to distribute and affordably produced. Chapbooks are usually printed on inexpensive paper and can be bound in various ways, such as saddle stitching or stapling. They are commonly used by poets and writers to share their work with a wider audience or to showcase a specific collection of their writings.