Just smashing

Self-publishing used to be called “vanity press” because some people who couldn’t interest a traditional publisher were thought to be feeding their egos by paying to have their books printed. It’s still true that some people rush forward without editing or rewrites, but, more and more, independent authors do take care to put out their best work. Smashwords has helped a lot of people release their books. Here’s an interview with its founder.

London Book Fair 2015: Self-Publishing Smashes Through
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/international/london-book-fair/article/66265-london-book-fair-2015-self-publishing-smashes-through.html#path/pw/by-topic/international/london-book-fair/article/66265-london-book-fair-2015-self-publishing-smashes-through.html

Authors seek better communication

Bookseller‘s author survey has some interesting findings about traditional publishing. They provide another reason to give serious thought to self-publishing before deciding which route to take.

Authors call for better communication with publishers | The Bookseller
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/authors-call-better-communication-publishers

ALA award winners

As a library fan, I like to know what books librarians are honoring. As a writer, I’m curious about what they’re buying. This is a list that tells me. (It is a list of books for kids, but I still read them.)

Small But Mighty Presses Prevail at ALA Awards
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/65507-small-but-mighty-presses-prevail-at-ala-awards.html#path/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/65507-small-but-mighty-presses-prevail-at-ala-awards.html