Book Publishing

Blog

3 Reasons Black Authors Must Keep Writing in the Age of Book Bans and Anti-DEI Backlash

At a time when books are being banned, classrooms are facing restrictions on how race and history can be discussed, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs are under attack, the role of Black writers has never been more important. Throughout American history, Black authors have used literature, journalism, poetry, and scholarship to preserve truth, challenge injustice, and give voice to communities too often ignored or silenced. From the Civil Rights Movement to t

mjackson148

2 days ago3 min read

Who Chooses the Books We Read — Readers or Publishers? And What That Means for Black Authors

When we stroll through a bookstore or scroll on BookTok and see book recommendations, it can feel like readers collectively decide what stories rise and fall. But the reality is more complicated: both publishers and readers play a role, and the balance of influence has real consequences — especially for Black authors. The Gatekeepers: Publishers and the Book Market In traditional book publishing, a relatively small group of insiders — agents, editors, and publishing houses —

mjackson148

2 days ago3 min read

How to Self-Publish With Intention, Ownership, and Profit

Every week the same question shows up in my inbox and on the Black Writers Workspace private Facebook page: “How do I self-publish my book?” The short answer? There’s no single “perfect” path—but there is a smart, strategic one. Self-publishing is no longer a niche option. According to industry data from Bowker, more than 1.7–2 million self-published books are released every year in the U.S. alone. That number continues to grow as authors realize they can maintain creative co

mjackson148

2 days ago3 min read