Highlights from Frankfurt Book Fair: October 27, 2021
After producing an entirely virtual book fair in 2020, Frankfurt hosted a hybrid event last week that saw reduced attendance and exhibitors.
The Believer is closing
Founded as part of the McSweeney’s publishing empire in 2003, The Believer was beloved in the literary community almost from launch.
Structure Isn’t the Holy Grail You’re Looking For
Your memoir’s structure can reveal itself later, once the primary elements are in place. In the meantime, concentrate on scaffolding.
Does the Idea of Promoting Your Book Make You Feel Queasy?
As an author, marketing your work will always be your job, but it doesn't have to be a chore. To do it well, think beyond self-promotion.
NaNoWriMo: How to Fly by the Seat of Your Pants—and Win
For writers who prefer to work without a roadmap, here are some tips for reaching your NaNoWriMo goals.
Use Your Analyzer Switch to Increase Productivity
Envision your inner critic as an adjustable dial: turn it lower to let ideas flow freely, and higher when it’s time to analyze and revise.
Closing Image: October 13, 2021
14 percent of UK book buyers were TikTok users in the 12 months to April, rising to 37 percent of 13-to-24-year-olds and peaking at nearly half of 16-to-19-year-olds.
Links of Interest: October 13, 2021
Traditional Publishing Where have all the midsize publishers gone? Longtime industry journalist Jim Milliot says there is a dearth of
Rocket Bird Books launches in the UK
Rocket Bird Books will focus on picture books “with no limits.” Beginning in 2023, it will release 10 picture books,
A new nonfiction imprint led by Melinda French Gates
Starting with three titles in 2023, Macmillan’s Flatiron Books is launching a nonfiction imprint, Moment of Lift Books, led by Melinda French Gates.
How Traditional Publishers Are Shifting to Data-Informed Marketing
Social media listening services and advertising analytics help publishers customize book marketing and improve reach
Inkitt Raises $59 Million, Touts Success with Galatea
An exuberant market for online literature leads to investment in Inkitt’s serial fiction app, Galatea
“Pretty Much Everything Has Gone Wrong”: Navigating Supply Chain Issues
A recent panel of publishing industry vets discussed how they’re adapting to paper shortages and extended shipping times
Book sales update: ebook sales declining for traditional publishers
Last year was the first time since 2013 that annual ebook unit sales grew, increasing by 22 percent year over year, according to NPD BookScan.
The first half of 2021 sees a surge in dealmaking
According to Publishers Lunch (subscription required), book deal volume for the first half of 2021 is about 20 percent higher than in 2020.
American Booksellers Association membership remains steady
This year, ABA reports 1,910 members with 2,496 locations, comparable to where they were prior to the pandemic.
Big Five publisher Hachette signs deal with bestselling author Colleen Hoover
Grand Central Publishing, an imprint at Hachette, has announced a deal for a new psychological thriller by bestselling author Colleen Hoover.
Book Printing 101: What You Need to Know Before Approaching a Printer
Choosing the right materials for your printed book affects not just its appearance but how a potential customer perceives its value.
Adversaries in Fiction: Who Is Standing in Your Character’s Way?
Your story’s adversary might come in many shapes or sizes. Most important, ensure that the conflict they present has a reason for existing.
Your Writing Matters. A Coach Can Help.
Just as coaches help athletes, writing coaches can help authors be more productive, proficient, and proud of what they accomplish.
Why You Should Write a Novella for NaNoWriMo 2021
Only a fraction of participants reach the finish line. Setting your sights on the more compact novella form might help you go the distance.
What Do Authors Earn from Digital Lending at Libraries?
Does library lending help or hurt author and publisher income? The debate continues.
Closing Image: September 29, 2021
NPD BookScan recently released figures for thriller book sales in the US, a category that accounts for one in eight adult fiction books sold.
Links of Interest: September 29, 2021
Big Five Publishing Congress questions Big Five publishers about ebook pricing for libraries. Lawmakers are asking each of the Big
Virtual conference: Reimagining Bookstores
A group of independent bookstores is hosting a free, virtual gathering, Reimagining Bookstores, on October 18 and 19.