Amazon and Print on Demand

Looks like the Print on Demand (POD) option for self-publishers has become more complicated. Amazon is telling self-publishers, among others, that if they want Amazon to carry their title, they must use their POD, Book Surge. However, if the self-publisher uses another POD service, they can still sell through Amazon but must use the Advantage program (with all its associated fees and commissions). Check out the discussion at Computerworld and gain more insight at Writers Weekly.

Book Stores and Book Sales

There has been a great deal of conflicting information in the news lately about book stores and book sales. It appears that a number of long-time book stores are closing--particularly in the East. Meanwhile here in Central Oregon, a couple of new independent book stores have opened. Hurray for them!

Similarly, the news about book sales has been mixed. Some retail chains and publishers are reporting huge losses, often associated with write-downs, while others report a greater-than-expected sales volume and overall profit.

One thing is apparent: many (most) of the big publishing houses are copying the sales strategies used by the self publisher. Good for us!!!