The Business of Books - André Schiffrin

The Business of Books: A Radical Reckoning

In his groundbreaking book, "The Business of Books: A Radical Reckoning," André Schiffrin, a renowned publishing veteran and industry insider, offers a scathing critique of the modern publishing industry and its impact on literature and culture. Schiffrin argues that the increasing corporatization and commercialization of publishing have led to a decline in the quality of books and a narrowing of the range of voices represented in literature.

The Rise of the Conglomerates

Schiffrin begins by tracing the history of the publishing industry, from its origins as a small, independent trade to its current state as a global, multi-billion dollar industry dominated by a handful of large conglomerates. He argues that this concentration of power has led to a narrowing of the range of books published, as these conglomerates are more interested in maximizing profits than in promoting literary excellence.

The Decline of Literary Quality

As a result of this profit-driven approach, Schiffrin argues that the quality of books has suffered. He points to the increasing number of formulaic, predictable books that are published each year, as well as the decline in the number of books that are translated from other languages. This has led to a homogenization of literature and a narrowing of the range of perspectives represented in books.

The Impact on Authors

Schiffrin also discusses the impact of the changing publishing industry on authors. He argues that the increasing power of agents and the rise of self-publishing have made it more difficult for authors to make a living from their work. This has led to a decline in the number of people who are able to pursue a career in writing, which has further impoverished the literary landscape.

A Call for Change

Schiffrin concludes by calling for a radical transformation of the publishing industry. He argues that we need to move away from the current profit-driven model and towards a more sustainable, author-centric model that values literary excellence over commercial success. This will require a concerted effort from authors, publishers, and readers to resist the forces of commercialization and to support independent publishing and literary journals.

Why You Should Read This Book

"The Business of Books" is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of literature. Schiffrin's passionate and well-argued critique of the publishing industry is a wake-up call to the dangers of commercialization and the importance of supporting independent publishing. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the current state of the publishing industry and the challenges facing authors and readers today.

How to Buy This Book

"The Business of Books" is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats from all major retailers. You can also support independent bookstores by purchasing the book directly from them.