As technology changes the way we view the world, it is also changing the way businesses choose to produce and advertise their products. A great example of this change is in literary spaces, with companies like Simon & Schuster and HarperCollins taking advantage of the growing influence technology has. It is easier than ever to spread the word about upcoming releases and garner excitement and attention for them.
In addition to increased publicity when it comes to book releases, companies have found ways to make their products desirable in a market that grows more and more competitive. This could be by offering special gifts when consumers preorder the book, or by offering special attributes in first edition copies. These methods all have one goal, to entice people to buy their wares. In many ways, the increased presence of companies in social media spaces has been beneficial, with self-published authors like Olivie Blake and Freida McFadden getting the chance to market their books to audiences and gain the attention of larger companies.
One thing we can all be grateful for is the chance to discover new authors and works thanks to their efforts without relying on publishing companies to bring our attention to them. As we move into a new year, try to make it a goal to support an independent or local author. Just because they may not have the backing of a large company doesn’t mean their works can’t touch us in meaningful ways.
If you are interested in connecting with one of these works, feel free to join us on April 15th at 6:30 pm for our Novels at Night Book Club. We will be discussing the book Diamonds in Auschwitz by Meg Hammand, who happens to be a local author and will be there to discuss her book.