This Week in Publishing: June 22nd, 2015

by Allison Bucknell

Inkshares and Indies Partner Up
Publishers Weekly describes Inkshares as “a new publisher that meshes crowdfunding with traditional publishing.” It depends entirely on the readers to make publishing decisions, which is a fresh approach when it comes to the industry. Another fresh aspect of Inkshares’ business is the fact that it’s serious about its distribution partnerships with independent bookstores.

Taking that relationship a step further, Inkshares has “signed” their first indie bookstore imprint (or “collection”) this week. Matt Kaye, VIP of Inkshares marketing and operations, “views an Inkshares imprint as a way for indies across the country to deepen ties with their local writing community. It also provides them with a way to offer an alternative to Amazon’s CreateSpace.”

Publishing is becoming more reader-focused, and proof of that move can be found in publishing startups like Inkshares. Many view the independent bookstore as a sort of savior for retail bookselling, and whether you agree or not, indie bookstores have more flexibility, which allows them to try tactics outside the norm.

Dark Horse Comics Debuts on comiXology
In the digital graphic novel and comic world, comiXology is a well-known name. The company serves readers on a variety of platforms, and is the go-to place for digital graphic novel and comic book reading, especially with publishers like Marvel, DC Comics, IDW, and Dynamite, among others.

One big-name comic publisher had kept itself from comiXology’s partnership: Dark Horse Comics, one of the largest independent comics publisher in North America. Titles that Dark Horse has published include Joss Whedon’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Mike Mignola’s Hellboy, and Frank Miller’s 300 and Sin City, so it’s understandable that fans have wanted Dark Horse’s titles to be made available on comiXology.

However, in a surprise revelation this week, Dark Horse Comics has debuted on comiXology with the release of 800 digital titles for sale. Publishers Weekly pointed out, though, that “moving forward, the publisher will continue to sell digital editions of its own periodical comics exclusively via Dark Horse Digital.”

“Chim, chimney, chim, chimney, chim, chim, cher-ee!”
Mary Poppins, along with many other classic literary figures, holds a special place in people’s hearts. Many grew up watching the movie (which was released in 1964), and many more read the 8-book series that was written by P.L. Travers and released between 1934-1988.

Now, for further delight, fans can visit the Mary Poppins display at the New York Public Library until Fall 2015. Galley Cat notes that “visitors will be able to find this program at the children’s room of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building.” Be sure to check out this classic display while it lasts!

Any stories you think we should have covered? Mention them in the commentsbelow and we’ll give you a shout-out next week! We mean it!

(Featured Image source: Inkshares)

About Blog Editor

The Women’s National Book Association was founded in 1917 by female booksellers who weren’t allowed in the men’s organizations. Nearly 100 years later, the WNBA is still supporting women in the book industry through literary events, networking, literacy projects, workshops, open mic nights, book clubs, and many other entertaining programs throughout the season!

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