Blockchain technology isn't widely used in publishing yet, but that doesn't make it useless. Since these industries have shifted to the digital space, publishing companies, academic journals, self-publishers, and writers stand to gain significantly from blockchain technology. Selling and buying material and conducting online transactions are the cornerstones of online … [Read more...] about Blockchain – An Intersection of Technology and Publishing
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Brandon Sanderson breaks record, launches most funded Kickstarter ever
If you're into fantasy novels, chances are you're more than just aware of Brandon Sanderson's existence. With scores of critically acclaimed titles under his belt, Sanderson is one of the most celebrated authors in the sci-fi and fantasy genres. Recently, he achieved a remarkable feat by setting a record on the popular crowdfunding platform Kickstarter. Taking fans by … [Read more...] about Brandon Sanderson breaks record, launches most funded Kickstarter ever
Big Changes that May Save Barnes and Noble
Everyone is talking about Barnes and Noble CEO James Daunt's keynote address to the Independent Book Publishers Association annual event recently. This important talk offered a lot of insight into crucial changes at the brick-and-mortar locations (especially as to how the company is bouncing back from a global pandemic), from mundane changes like new furniture to major … [Read more...] about Big Changes that May Save Barnes and Noble
2020 has been surprisingly good for the publishing industry
It might be a picture of gloom and doom for most business sectors in 2020 though surprisingly, the publishing sector has come out unscathed from the vagaries of the pandemic. Sales have largely been positive across all segments of the book industry, which includes printed books, eBooks, and audiobooks. Print sales have risen by 8 percent, which may not seem much but is the … [Read more...] about 2020 has been surprisingly good for the publishing industry
Keanu Reeves Launches Book Imprint but It’s Not Erotic Lit
Is anyone else still recovering from the tidal wave of actors-turned-singers that ruined a little bit of the '80s for us? Big names like Don Johnson, Bruce Willis, Eddie Murphy, and Patrick Swayze made us all cringe a little by releasing albums, which is somehow not the same thing as a singer like Harry Connick, Jr. or Madonna turning to acting. In reality, entertainers have … [Read more...] about Keanu Reeves Launches Book Imprint but It’s Not Erotic Lit
Are Authors Really That Poor?
"So, you're an author. Have you written anything I've heard of?" "You're an author, so you just wear pajamas all day, right?" "You're an author, so you're rich, right?" That last question has been the bane of many authors' existence, the misperception that somehow listing a book for sale equates to a carefree lifestyle filled with champagne baths and sleeping 'til noon. … [Read more...] about Are Authors Really That Poor?
Profanity in Books: Is It a Good Thing?
“Substitute ‘damn’ every time you’re inclined to write ‘very,’” Mark Twain famously said. “Your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.” Well, damn. Yes, back in the day, your editor--often working under strict guidelines from the publisher--would slash a red pen through anything considered outside the acceptable standards for profanity (this … [Read more...] about Profanity in Books: Is It a Good Thing?
Can Authors Really Be Booksellers?
One of the most interesting digital publishing trends of the year has been the reemergence of a number of ideas that appeared well before their time. Startups have come and gone in this space, and others have renewed those models and ideas at what is hopefully a more appropriate time. Yet another "newly new" idea has emerged, one that has its roots in giving authors total sales … [Read more...] about Can Authors Really Be Booksellers?
Simon & Schuster Dumps Milo Yiannopoulos Book
It's a tough day to be a jerk, as Milo Yiannopoulos is still learning. The self-styled "provocateur"--which is polite speak for arrogant, flippant, sub-bridge dwelling troll--has lost both his book deal and his high-dollar CPAC speaking engagement in the course of a single day. His alleged crime? A video has surfaced which purports to show him advocating for legalization of … [Read more...] about Simon & Schuster Dumps Milo Yiannopoulos Book
New Data Suggests Boys Are Reading More than Ever
A widely held belief that has long reduced parents, teachers, booksellers, and publishers to tears is the sad state of reading priority exhibited largely by boys. It's a common stereotype that boys make up the bulk of the "struggling" or reluctant readers, a belief that relies on compilations of different sources like book sales and "fill in the bubble" standardized test scores … [Read more...] about New Data Suggests Boys Are Reading More than Ever