Mar 30, 2011

Two authors flip their publishing strategies, a snarky list of classics you needn't bother with and two books (from retreat authors) we can't wait for you to read.

The dates of our first two Retreat Author Reading Challenge online discussions have been announced. Get all the details on the challenge page.

The Big Publishing Story of the Week

The publishing world has been buzzing with the stories of two authors: Barry Eisler, author of eight books, who declined a six-figure contract to self-publish his books electronically; and Amanda Hocking, a huge success in the self-published e-book world, who signed a seven-figure deal with a major publisher. Read more about the story here, and check out some of the many links they provide for even more.

Not the 50 Books You Must Read Before You Die (11:08)

In The Telegraph, novelist Iain Hollingshead compiled a list of fifty "great" books that he feels you don't need to read. I personally take umbrage at several of his choices, but neither Ann nor I can deny the wit and humor he brings to his reasoning why each book is on the list. Check out the article and be sure to read some of the comments where folks added their own selections to the list

Two Books We Can't Wait For You to Read (17:34)

Ann tells us about Double Black, the first Ski Diva Mystery by Wendy Clinch, which features Stacey Curtis, ski bum turned amateur sleuth. (Ann mistakenly refers to Stacey as Wendy at one point - sorry for the confusion!) I just finished Unexpectedly, Milo by Matthew Dicks. It's the story of man plagued by his brain's unusual thoughts and demands, and the mission he undertakes to help someone he doesn't even know.