Book sales

Liberty Media, the conglomerate controlled by John Malone, made a $1 billion bid Thursday to buy Barnes & Noble. The bricks-and-mortar bookstore business is declining everywhere, so for Malone's gamble is to pay off, the Nook will have to gain some ground against Apple's iPad and Amazon's Kindle.

Many writers are discovering the wonders (and extensive rewards) of self-publishing, but there are still places where professional representation can be be well worth the trouble. The confusing but often lucrative world of international sales is an example.

Veteran novelist Catherine Ryan Hyde (Pay It Forward and 15 other books) describes the monetary underpinnings of the novelist's business. Did you know authors generally get just two royalty checks a year? That is, if there are any royalties at all.

Investor Ron Burkle, who's embroiled in a proxy fight at Barnes & Noble, says he doesn't want control of the bookseller. His Yucaipa Companies owns 18.8% of the company and claims in a letter that he wants Chairman Leonard Riggio's hold on Barnes & Noble broken.

Will author Rick Riordan reach J.K. Rowling territory? Millions of fans of his 'Percy Jackson' series would answer that question with a resounding yes, but it will take Hollywood's blessing to vault him into that hallowed territory.

Today through Thursday, May 13, 2010, get 33% off the list price of one item using this Borders coupon. Online use coupon code BUE7662Y, which expires at 11:59 p.m. PST May 13. The coupon is also valid at Borders Express and Waldenbooks. Make sure to bring your free Borders Rewards membership to...

With yard-sale season coming to an end in many parts of the country, thousands of bargain hunters will be experiencing symptoms of withdrawal. Luckily, there is help. While yard sales still present the best opportunity for bargains on household items and valuable collectibles that can be resold on...

Here's some good news from the recession: Book sales are up, at least in Continental Europe. As far as "cheap treats" go, books are at the top of the list, and readers have more time on their hands if they're unemployed, according to a story in the New York Times. The numbers aren't up...