Recent Articles

For public libraries, it's the best of times and the worst of times: Usage is skyrocketing, but budgets are being slashed. What to do? A few thriller authors are stepping in -- and using their time and fame to help organize fund-raising events for libraries. The goal is to create a national movement.

To those outside the publishing industry, the deals that get covered in the press might give the impression that book auctions are as rare as solar eclipses. In fact, they happen with remarkable regularity. But that doesn't mean they're any less nerve-wracking for authors.

Beginning as early as the end of the week, 6,000 Borders employees will be out work, and publishers will likely lose millions of dollars in bad debt. Hardest hit will be "midlist" authors -- those whose books aren't bestsellers but still do well enough to justify their publication.

Pitch sessions are a staple at most writers conferences, offering authors the opportunity to sit down face-to-face with a literary agents to talk about their projects. But while they make lots of money for conference organizers, they aren't the best path to getting a book published.

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.

Should the deeply troubled Borders chain close, publishers will survive just fine. But for authors who don't have instant name recognition with book buyers, the loss of an outlet with scads of shelf and floor space is a serious blow. Plus, it's one less place where authors and readers can connect.

Lost book sales can't be quantified, making it impossible to calculate e-piracy's full economic impact. But the sheer number of illegal copies available for download gives an idea of the scope. It translates into a staggering amount of royalties being stolen from authors.

As electronic media accounts for a larger and larger portion of the book business, consumers are benefiting from lower prices for books, and manufacturers are enjoying massive sales. But how is the e-book revolution affecting authors? It's opening new opportunities -- but no guarantees.

The quality of an audiobook truly hinges on its narrator. The best ones use their voice talents and training to deliver the feeling behind the author's intent. Here, a writer explains what goes into audiobooks -- and why they can boost an author's audience.