The hottest Publishing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

"My editor [or agent] is taking FOREVER with my edits. They keep making and breaking promises about when they'll be done with their notes. What the f*ck?"

How to Glow in the Dark • 119 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Delays in getting edits from editors or agents are frustratingly common in book publishing.
  2. ESBs involve delays in receiving feedback, which can lead to distress for authors.
  3. It's important for all parties to address ESBs by understanding the underlying reasons and collaborating for corrective action.

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The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 3 implied HN points • 28 Dec 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Subscribers are invited to nominate essays published on Substack in 2025 (not paywalled and not by the Cosmopolitan Globalist) across many categories; nominations close Dec 30 and winners are announced Dec 31 after a Dec 30 Zoom judging session.
  2. The newsletter is running an extended 48‑hour sale offering 50% off a one‑year subscription, with gift and group discounts and access to archives, podcasts, events, and community features.
  3. Winners will be named Cosmopolitan Globalist Laureates and receive a permanent listing, a badge, publicity, invitations to a podcast or salon, and a citation, and volunteers are welcome to join the judging panel.

Common Misconceptions About Publishing IV

Notes from a Small Press • 26 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. People in publishing often know the industry better than outsiders, but even they may only see a small part of it. It's good to read from multiple sources to get a fuller picture.
  2. Not all books go through agents, and many small presses are bigger than people think. In fact, a small press is defined by bringing in less than $50 million a year.
  3. Bookstores decide what to stock based on profit margins, and there can be a big difference between books ordered and books actually sold. This means authors shouldn't always trust early numbers on how well their book is doing.
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The Story of the Mathematics of Machine Learning Book

The Palindrome • 5 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
🚌 Education Publishing
  1. Writing online about math and machine learning turned a hobby into a 700-page book, showing that sharing knowledge can lead to unexpected successes.
  2. Creating clear, engaging content on social media helped grow an audience rapidly, proving that quality work can attract attention even in crowded spaces.
  3. Finding a publisher transformed a challenging project into a successful book release, underlining the importance of collaboration and support from the community.

Diary Entry #2: Discovery Numbers (And a Quick Favor)

Shades of Greaves • 39 implied HN points • 22 Oct 23
💼 Business Publishing
  1. The author's book has launched on Reedsy Discovery, a platform connecting authors with readers. Getting support through upvotes, comments, and reviews can help increase visibility for the book.
  2. Paid press opportunities like Reedsy Discovery can cost money but may lead to more book sales and broader exposure. For instance, with a $50 cost, selling 10 books could break even and expand the book's reach.
  3. Free press through interviews, newsletter features, and social media shoutouts has been crucial in promoting the author's book, demonstrating the value of media coverage in reaching potential readers.

December Is The Best Month to Write on Medium.com and Boost Your Stats

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 99 implied HN points • 10 Dec 22
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. December is a great time to write on Medium because more readers are inside and online. This can help your articles get more views.
  2. Many publication editors take breaks during the holidays, so it's smart to plan and submit your stories ahead of time. This way, you can still get featured even when they are away.
  3. Using specific tags, like the year-end retrospective tag, can increase your chances of being highlighted by Medium's editors. It’s a good way to connect with readers about your year's experiences.

Changing Directions at Midlife

The Reclamation Era • 79 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. It's okay to change your path in life, especially during big transitions like midlife. Making changes can bring peace and excitement.
  2. Taking care of your health is really important. Prioritizing well-being can lead to new opportunities and passions.
  3. Writing a book can be a fulfilling goal, and sharing the journey can inspire others. Embrace the ups and downs along the way.

How To Create A Free Blog With Medium In 6 Easy Steps

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 99 implied HN points • 03 Dec 22
🚌 Education Publishing
  1. To start a blog on Medium, first create a strong profile. Include your name, a short bio, and links to your other social media or newsletter.
  2. When you start writing, pay attention to formatting using Medium’s tools. Use titles, subtitles, and images to make your posts visually appealing.
  3. Finally, add relevant tags to your posts before publishing. This helps your articles get noticed and reach a wider audience.

Join me on Notes

Visual Media Overlord • 39 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. Notes is a new space on Substack for sharing links, posts, quotes, and photos
  2. Subscribers to Gilby's Pop Culture Roundup will automatically see notes
  3. Readers can share their own notes and engage in discussions on the platform

Join me on Notes

Extropic Thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 05 May 23
🕹 Technology Publishing
  1. Substack Notes is a new platform for sharing ideas, links, and short posts.
  2. Subscribers automatically have access to author's notes on Substack.
  3. Authors and readers are finding Substack Notes a positive and creative space.

How Should Authors Navigate AI and Publishing Contracts?

Notes from a Small Press • 16 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Authors should carefully read their publishing contracts to understand who holds the copyright. Most often, authors keep the copyright but grant publishing rights to the publisher.
  2. When it comes to AI and training sets, contracts may not clearly state the rights regarding the use of an author's work, leading to confusion. Authors might have options to opt out of having their work used in AI training.
  3. The publishing landscape is complicated due to ongoing legal issues and AI's increasing role in content creation. Authors need to stay informed and consider how these changes might affect their rights and income.

Hello

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 21 Aug 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Life can get busy and hectic sometimes, and that's perfectly fine. It's okay to take a break when things become overwhelming.
  2. There will be times when you may feel disconnected from your creative side. It's normal for inspiration to come and go.
  3. New experiences, like moving or starting a new job, can refresh your perspective and possibly stimulate your creativity.

Pity the Short Story Writer

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 54 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Getting published as a writer can be really tough. Many writers spend a lot of time submitting stories and getting rejections before they find success.
  2. The traditional path to publishing, like getting into the New Yorker, is harder now. Writers may need to build their own audience through platforms like blogs or Substack instead.
  3. Self-publishing is becoming more accepted now, and many talented writers are finding ways to share their work without relying on big publishers.

Mappy New Year

Breaking Smart • 45 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The focus is shifting away from annual summaries to a more thoughtful exploration of writing themes. This change aims to reflect a clearer narrative in the work.
  2. Serialized projects will be replaced by standalone posts, as the writer wants to stay focused and adapt better to the Substack format.
  3. The newsletter price will increase soon, but current subscribers can lock in their rates by subscribing before the change happens.

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The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 2 implied HN points • 26 Dec 25
💼 Business Publishing
  1. There’s a limited 48-hour sale offering 50% off a one-year subscription to the Cosmopolitan Globalist, billed as an unusually good deal.
  2. A paid subscription unlocks daily (or frequent) access to paywalled essays and a large archive of political and international commentary.
  3. You can buy subscriptions as gifts for friends, family, coworkers, kids, or even elected representatives, and the offer is pushed with a satisfaction-or-money-back promise.

How to Write a Book

The Analog Family • 39 implied HN points • 10 Jul 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Writing a book requires a clear proposal that outlines your ideas and structure. It helps you think deeply about what you want to say and who will read it.
  2. Research is crucial and can be organized effectively using physical notes like index cards to help you remember important information.
  3. The writing and editing processes are intense but rewarding. It can feel like a long journey, but it's an opportunity to share something you love with the world.

Jobs and Opps at Faber Academy, SWNS, the BBC, Channel 4, and Many, Many More 📻

Journo Resources - The Opportunities • 59 implied HN points • 02 May 23
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Various job opportunities are available at companies like Faber Academy, SWNS, the BBC, and Channel 4.
  2. The media industry is facing challenges such as layoffs, but it is important to stay hopeful and keep honing your craft.
  3. There are diverse roles in journalism and adjacent fields, with opportunities for writers, editors, reporters, and content coordinators.

Why, actually, I am doing this

Sex and the State • 16 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Writing can be both enjoyable and challenging. It's great when it's easy, but sometimes it feels tough.
  2. A helpful way to deal with perfectionism is to just keep trying and not worry about making things perfect.
  3. Finding motivation and reasons to write is important, even if you feel pressure to produce something great.

Story Voyager is taking a break

storyvoyager • 11 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The author is taking a break from the newsletter to prepare their first book for publishing. They need to focus on getting it done without distraction.
  2. The main goal of the newsletter was to serialize a novel called 'There Is Hope,' which is now complete. The book will be published soon, with some exclusive content for print readers.
  3. The author appreciates their readers' support and promises exciting updates when they return in September. Thank yous and a special gift for paid subscribers will be included.

Common Sense and Sensibility

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 30 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. A new magazine called 'The Metropolitan Review' has launched, focusing on diverse voices and unique perspectives in literature and criticism.
  2. The goal is to embrace individual writers' styles without enforcing a strict house style, allowing for more creative freedom and expression.
  3. The rise of platforms like Substack shows that there’s a growing wave of fresh, independent writing that can challenge traditional media and engage readers.

Christmas Sale!!!

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 38 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. There's a Christmas sale on subscriptions for 'Slack Tide', with 30 percent off until Christmas Day. It's a good deal for anyone looking for a new subscription.
  2. The annual subscription price drops to just $35 for the first year, which is cheaper than many fast food items. This makes it an affordable option for readers.
  3. Subscribers can expect honest and entertaining content from 'Slack Tide'. It's a place where readers can engage and participate in discussions, adding to the community feel.

I Know What's On Your Mind Right Now

Notes from a Small Press • 41 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. There is a rise in low-quality paperbacks in the market. This change might be affecting the overall reading experience.
  2. Book production and printing can be complex topics that impact how books feel and look.
  3. Sometimes, focusing on creative work like writing helps to distract from stressful news in the world.

My Book, Get Funded!, Is 50% Off This Weekend!

Startup Strategies • 14 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
💼 Business Publishing
  1. The book 'Get Funded!' offers essential tips on how to successfully secure funding for your startup or project. It's a helpful resource for anyone looking to raise money.
  2. Right now, the book is available at a 50% discount, making it a great time to buy if you're interested in learning about fundraising.
  3. Despite being published in 2020, the book has continued to be popular and relevant, showing that good advice lasts over time.

Reckoning Season

Notes from a Small Press • 31 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. It's possible to predict how many copies of a book will sell by looking at past sales data. This can help in planning budgets and marketing strategies.
  2. While some new books may not sell as expected, backlist titles often gain popularity over time and keep a publishing house afloat.
  3. Publishing involves managing expenses for new titles while also hoping that older books will continue to sell well, balancing both sides is key for success.

Too many books

The Leftovers • 39 implied HN points • 12 Nov 22
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. The publishing industry often thrives on the thievery of our time and brain cells, with many books being published that may not bring value to humanity.
  2. Not every book is a noble object, and the world wouldn't lose much if a vast majority of books disappeared, leading to more trees and less ideological issues.
  3. Consider subscribing to The Leftovers for more insightful content and a 7-day free trial to explore the full post archives.

Award Ceremonies and a Book Proposal Course

Notes from a Small Press • 12 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Being part of award ceremonies is exciting and offers great opportunities to support authors. It feels rewarding to celebrate their achievements.
  2. Teaching online courses about nonfiction book proposals is a key focus. These courses help people understand how to write effective proposals and develop their ideas.
  3. The community formed during these courses is important. Participants often continue supporting each other after the course ends, creating lasting writing groups.

Trust the Critic?

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 36 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. There is less honest criticism of books because many critics are now freelancers and also writers. This makes them less likely to be negative about new books that could affect their own careers.
  2. Critics used to challenge well-known authors more freely and offer varied opinions, but now they often just give praise without saying what's really bad about a book. This makes it hard for readers to know which novels are really worth their time.
  3. New platforms like Substack are giving space to honest voices in criticism. This shift could bring back more genuine discussions about literature instead of the bland, safe reviews we often see now.

Amazon Exposed!

Polymathic Being • 94 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
💼 Business Publishing
  1. Amazon's strength is in revolutionizing supply chain logistics, not in direct selling.
  2. Amazon's marketplace allows small businesses to thrive alongside larger competitors.
  3. Amazon has democratized software development, resale, and publishing making entry easier for new businesses.

Book Blurbs

The Analog Family • 39 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. Getting positive endorsements for a book feels amazing and validating. It's like receiving an A+ report card for your hard work.
  2. Writing a book is a big commitment, often without immediate feedback. It can feel scary, but it’s important to trust your instincts throughout the process.
  3. Having supportive blurbs from respected authors can motivate you to keep going, especially when preparing for a book launch. Each endorsement feels like a helpful push forward.

Agents, Awards, Taylor Swift, The Day Job, and This Very Thing You Are Reading

Notes from a Small Press • 26 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. It’s important for writers to understand the role of agents in the publishing industry. Agents can help negotiate deals and represent a writer's best interests.
  2. Awards can play a big role in a writer's visibility and career. Winning an award can open doors and attract new readers.
  3. It's okay to have other jobs while pursuing writing. Many successful authors started out with a day job before making it big.

American Made: Or, What I'm working On

Notes from a Small Press • 8 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
📚 Literature Publishing
  1. AI is becoming a big topic in the publishing world, and it's important to understand its impact on writing and authorship.
  2. Many people have different opinions about how AI should be used in publishing, making it a complicated issue.
  3. Staying informed and discussing these issues can help authors navigate the changing landscape of publishing.

Total Editor Death

The Carousel • 32 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. The role of editors is really important for great writing; many famous writers had editors who helped shape their work. Without skilled editors, quality in mainstream writing seems to be declining.
  2. Today's editors often don't believe in finding true talent and instead focus on what's already popular. This can limit the discovery of new, unique voices.
  3. Creative industries seem stuck in a loop, choosing familiar successes over new ideas because of decision fatigue. There's hope that this might change as more people explore DIY platforms for fresh talent.

S&T: 'A conversation with Sydney Brenner: How academia and publishing are destroying scientific innovation' - Elizabeth Dzeng's 2014 Interview

James W. Phillips' Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 16 May 23
🔬 Science Publishing
  1. Sydney Brenner and his colleagues made significant contributions to biology, including establishing the genetic code and using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism.
  2. Young scientists face challenges in today's academic environment, such as pressure to publish in high-impact journals and the need for funding for risky, innovative research.
  3. There is a growing movement towards open access publishing and a reevaluation of the metrics used to judge research quality in academia.

Autism and the critic in me

The Author Is Dumb • 1 implied HN point • 11 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Publishing
  1. Discovering ADHD and autism can explain why someone might not emotionally connect with movie characters, so they legitimately experience films differently than most people.
  2. A critic often watches a film as a 'hyperobject'—seeing the filmmaker’s body of work, historical and social context, and technical choices all at once—which gives a broad, analytical perspective.
  3. That analytical distance is a strength, so the plan is to lean into long-form film criticism and focus the newsletter on reviews and essays, while still doing occasional fiction and other projects.

Big News!

Notes from a Small Press • 66 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
💼 Business Publishing
  1. The publishing company Belt has been acquired by Arcadia Publishing.
  2. Despite the acquisition, the publisher, staff, and book releases will remain the same.
  3. Anne Trubek expresses relief and excitement about the acquisition.