The problem with this is..it has long been known that publishers have paid to get their authors listed on the NYT bestseller list. When you consider books that are new releases and haven’t sold large volumes are already labeled #1 New York Times Bestsellers, it dilutes the prestige of the label.
1000 percent agree! And FWIW, Rick Riordan has a whole imprint geared toward ushering other authors / underrepresented voices into the fantasy MG space. I don't think he'd object to ceding his personal NYT list slot(s). Let's get him to help lead the charge :).
I'm still unclear if sales gets a book onto the list or making the list makes more sales. How does the list editor decide placings and categories, when a ranked list can't accurately reflect very different sales cycle curves?
The list starts with sales. It's a proprietary algorithm that records sales from participating retailers, and weights some of those retailers more than others (like indies count a little more than B&N because of size differences). Then, I believe, the list editor can make a call about suspicious titles (like pundit books that get the little dagger). But I do not think the editor is like rearranging them at will. Sometimes the categories get screwy, but I also don't think that's according to capricious whims (or undue influence). Usually, getting on the list increases sales, but there's no telling for how long.
The problem with this is..it has long been known that publishers have paid to get their authors listed on the NYT bestseller list. When you consider books that are new releases and haven’t sold large volumes are already labeled #1 New York Times Bestsellers, it dilutes the prestige of the label.
I agree. I have never wrote a book before. I took a writing class and was told I was good but I never did anything with it. I would like to.
What an absolutely amazing idea! Maybe we should all send letters to the editor suggesting this. :D
oh my gosh YES. NYT, please call Kate (and pay her a nice consultant fee while you’re at it)
Excellent plan Shelley! Go NYT Consultant Kate!
1000 percent agree! And FWIW, Rick Riordan has a whole imprint geared toward ushering other authors / underrepresented voices into the fantasy MG space. I don't think he'd object to ceding his personal NYT list slot(s). Let's get him to help lead the charge :).
I'm still unclear if sales gets a book onto the list or making the list makes more sales. How does the list editor decide placings and categories, when a ranked list can't accurately reflect very different sales cycle curves?
The list starts with sales. It's a proprietary algorithm that records sales from participating retailers, and weights some of those retailers more than others (like indies count a little more than B&N because of size differences). Then, I believe, the list editor can make a call about suspicious titles (like pundit books that get the little dagger). But I do not think the editor is like rearranging them at will. Sometimes the categories get screwy, but I also don't think that's according to capricious whims (or undue influence). Usually, getting on the list increases sales, but there's no telling for how long.
Brilliant!
Great idea!
This idea gets my vote 🙋🏼♀️
Brilliant!
I totally agree!
this is a genius idea!
Great plan!
Welcome back
I think this is a really good idea. Move those relentless space-takers over and open up the list for new ideas and perspectives.
Yawn!
Well then!