Online for Authors Episode 4-5-25

​Ink and Pixels: The Transformation of the Publishing Industry with Author Michael Castleman

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Michael Castleman, author of the book The Untold Story of Books. During a 50-year career, he has written 3,000 magazine and web articles and 19 books. 

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I had an eye-opening podcast recording with Michael Castleman, author of The Untold Story of Books, and wow - do I have some publishing insights to share with you!

Publishing Reality Check

Did you know that out of 2 million books published annually, only about 200 become New York Times bestsellers? That's a jaw-dropping 1 in 10,000 chance!

What Every Author Needs to Know

Michael dropped some serious knowledge bombs about modern publishing:

• 80% of books sell fewer than 100 copies
  
• Only 6% sell 1,000 copies
  
• Digital technology has completely transformed publishing

Hot Publishing Trends

• Hybrid Publishing: Authors can now pay $5-$20k to publish with reputable companies
  
• AI Challenge: Major battle brewing over AI's unauthorized use of authors' content

Michael's Top Author Advice

• Invest in professional editing
  
• Start promoting at the pre-order stage
  
• Build an email list
  
• Pace yourself in book marketing
  
• Pro Tip: 40% of book sales happen between Thanksgiving and Christmas - don't miss that window!

Want to dive deeper? Head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy of Michael's book, The Untold Story of Books! Or purchase The Untold Story of Books on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3QlsHqL
Ebook: https://amzn.to/42ZS0X4

Keep writing, keep dreaming!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.