The hottest Publishing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

7 New Magazines I Believe In (+ 8 promising first issue calls!)

The Sub Club Newsletter • 376 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
📚 Literature Magazines Poetry Fiction Publishing
  1. New literary magazines are popping up all the time, and they can be a great opportunity for fresh voices. Writers shouldn't ignore these newcomers, even if they don't have a long history.
  2. Magazines that opened in 2023 and 2024 are often more accessible to submit to than well-known ones. Many are actively seeking submissions and have a vision that stands out.
  3. Keeping an eye on new and unique magazines is exciting, as they may become important in the literary scene. Plus, some magazines are currently open for submissions to their first issues, which can be a fun gamble for writers.

The Biography Bots are Back

Rory’s Always On Newsletter • 615 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
📚 Literature Biographies AI writing Publishing Criticism
  1. Authors often check their names online to manage their reputation and prevent other products from hijacking their name. It's important for them to stay aware, especially around book release dates.
  2. AI-created biographies often contain inaccuracies and may read like generic content. Many times, they lack the personal touch and detail that a real biography should have.
  3. Despite the rise of AI, there's still a significant difference in quality between AI and human-written works. Original and creative writers can still stand out and have value that AI can't replicate.

9 Agents Seeking Memoirs

The Sub Club Newsletter • 594 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Querying Memoirs Submissions Writing
  1. There are nine agents currently looking for memoirs, which is a great opportunity for writers in that genre.
  2. Upcoming changes to the newsletter will include more insights and tips about the querying process from experienced writers and agents.
  3. Writers can use the Query Hotline and new chat features to ask questions and share experiences about getting published.

Sub Club Weekly Digest #2 (ish)

The Sub Club Newsletter • 495 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Editing Creative Process
  1. There are new features on Chill Subs that show popular and competitive literary magazines. This helps writers find where to submit their work.
  2. The Submitter's Club offers help in getting work submitted to magazines. Members can submit their pieces and receive personalized recommendations.
  3. A new column called Story Doctors will answer craft questions about writing. Writers can submit their work for feedback and tips on improving their pieces.

Google throws publishers a bone

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 28 May 25
💼 Business Media Publishing Streaming Technology Journalism
  1. Google's Discover feature is helping some publishers offset losses from search traffic. This shift shows that not all platforms are the same and offers a small boost to those adapting.
  2. Ghost, a publishing platform, has hit a milestone with over $100 million in subscription revenue. This highlights the growing importance of independent platforms for publishers.
  3. The growing popularity of IMAX theaters is great for premium experiences, but it could hurt traditional cinemas. It's a tricky balance between offering luxury options and keeping it affordable for everyone.
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Q & A edition: on volatility in publishing (and candles)

How to Glow in the Dark • 439 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Books Creativity Querying
  1. When querying agents about a new book, it's fine to directly email them if they previously showed interest. Just make sure to update the subject line and include your new manuscript.
  2. Publishing is a partnership, so approach agents with respect and mutual understanding. Both sides need to feel heard and valued for a successful collaboration.
  3. If you get a book deal, don't stress about tight deadlines for sequels. It's more likely that your publisher will not pursue a sequel if your first book doesn't sell well.

Curator

Castalia • 1758 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Publishing Art Criticism Society
  1. Literary writing should introduce new ideas, provide honest experiences, or unleash creativity. Unfortunately, much of what's out there feels repetitive and lacks depth.
  2. There's a growing disconnect between writers and publishers, as publishers often prioritize profits over the integrity of literary work. This leads to a system that might not serve those truly passionate about literature.
  3. The publishing industry is shifting, and some men feel left out of the conversation. It's essential to remember that literature should be about artistic expression, not just political representation.

The Troll School of Literature

Castalia • 2238 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
📚 Literature Criticism Publishing Fiction Reviews Cultural Commentary
  1. Some writers gain fame not for their talent, but for the buzz around them. This can help their books sell, even if the writing isn't good.
  2. Reviews can sometimes fail to criticize bad books, making it harder for readers to know what's worthwhile. Honest reviews are important to point out what really matters.
  3. The idea of just getting attention, regardless of quality, can overshadow real literary talent. It’s easy for readers to get caught up in the hype instead of seeking out good literature.

Mailbag Grab Grab

Freddie deBoer • 3434 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Publishing Reading
  1. The writer is open to doing a podcast if it's funded and someone else handles the technical aspects, but they don't think it would attract enough new subscribers.
  2. They are excited about their upcoming book projects, including a novel and a nonfiction book about mental health, with expected publication dates in 2025 and 2026.
  3. Despite receiving many emails, the writer can't always respond due to time constraints but values the input and feels guilty for not replying.

21 Pitch Calls from Paying Publications

The Sub Club Newsletter • 396 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Publishing Media Storytelling Lifestyle
  1. Editors are really busy right now and getting lots of pitches, so don't take it personally if you don't hear back right away.
  2. If you're unsure if a story idea will be popular, don't hesitate to pitch it. Your unique experience could resonate with many readers.
  3. There are many opportunities to pitch stories on various topics like lifestyle, politics, and ageism, so keep looking for the right fit for your ideas.

YouTube's last white whale

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 249 implied HN points • 30 May 25
💼 Business Media Publishing Marketing Content creation Advertising
  1. YouTube is growing stronger as more creators make high-quality scripted shows, competing with Hollywood. This shift shows that digital platforms can produce professional-level content and attract large audiences.
  2. Moving companies are now partnering with influencers to promote their services, which is a clever way to save money for both sides. It highlights the power of social media in marketing, even for unexpected industries.
  3. Local news organizations are debating whether to keep paywalls. One paper is trying to be open about its finances, showing that transparency might help them connect better with their audience.

Common Misconceptions About Publishing IV

Notes from a Small Press • 26 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
📚 Literature Publishing Book Sales Authors Industry Trends Misconceptions
  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.

AI is an Assistant

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Writing Tips Nonfiction Storytelling Publishing
  1. AI can help writers by suggesting ways to make their writing more engaging. This includes adding stories and examples to capture interest.
  2. Using a conversational tone makes writing more relatable to readers. Simple language can help connect better than formal, complex words.
  3. It's important to hook readers emotionally and surprise them with interesting ideas. Engaging them with questions can keep their attention.

Book Offer

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 65 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books Writing Authors Publishing Narratives
  1. There are physical copies of the book 'No Apologies' on sale for half off. It's a good chance to grab a deal!
  2. The book discusses how people face silencing and punishment for their opinions. It encourages everyone to find their voice and speak up.
  3. Silence can have serious downsides. Speaking out helps build real connections and allows for open discussions, which can change minds.

Dangerous! This Is the Reason Most Writers Quit (Before They Can Be Successful)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1558 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Writing Mindset Self-help Publishing Creativity
  1. Writers often struggle due to negative mindsets that hold them back. It's important to change how you think before seeking more skills or knowledge.
  2. Taking risks can lead to significant growth. Stepping out of comfort zones can help overcome insecurities and open new opportunities.
  3. Most writers give up when they face challenges, thinking their work is not good enough. It's crucial to push through these feelings to achieve success.

Atrophy of the Writing Muscle

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 593 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Publishing Writer's block Personal Development
  1. Taking a break from writing can feel refreshing and necessary, even for dedicated writers. It's okay to step back and focus on other things for a while.
  2. Writers can experience burnout, which can make it harder to get back into writing. It's important to recover and find a sustainable way to write again.
  3. Creativity may ebb and flow, and it's common for artists to pause after completing big projects. Slow and steady practice can help rebuild writing skills.

Substack Anniversary

Castalia • 2018 implied HN points • 25 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Community Digital Media Content creation
  1. Starting a Substack can be a great decision for writers. It offers a chance to connect with a community and share their work without the typical constraints of traditional publishing.
  2. The challenges of internet writing include keeping readers engaged and dealing with financial uncertainties. Writers should focus on expressing their true thoughts rather than just chasing popularity.
  3. Substack represents a shift in how content can be shared, allowing more freedom for writers. It's seen as a positive alternative to other social media platforms, encouraging meaningful and longer-form writing.

Breaking some huge personal news

Cloud Irregular • 2809 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📚 Literature Novels Publishing Science fiction Satire Writing
  1. The author has sold their first novel called THE BLEB PROJECT, which is a big dream come true for them.
  2. The book mixes satire with science fiction and is about what happens when Silicon Valley invents time travel.
  3. It will likely take a while for the book to be published, possibly not until 2026, but the author is excited about working with a major publisher.

Working titles

Austin Kleon • 1718 implied HN points • 25 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Creativity Culture
  1. Finding the right title for your work can be a tough job. It often involves trying different combinations of words until something feels right.
  2. There are different styles of titles, like poetic or descriptive, and each has its own appeal. Sometimes, getting the opinion of others can help you figure out what works best.
  3. Even great titles can face skepticism from others. Just because someone isn’t confident in a title doesn't mean it won't be successful.

Unbelievable! How She Secured Her Dream Book Deal (and Went From Unemployed to Published by Penguin)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1498 implied HN points • 23 Jun 24
📚 Literature Authors Publishing Writing Self-Publishing
  1. Veronica Llorca-Smith, who started writing seriously just two years ago, became a published author with Penguin Random House after self-publishing her first book.
  2. She published four books in one year, including bestsellers, by focusing on consistent writing and utilizing different platforms for marketing.
  3. Veronica cleverly pitched her book idea to Penguin after researching their needs, showing that taking initiative and being strategic can lead to success.

What I Learned From Editing Substack Reads

Castalia • 2378 implied HN points • 20 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Editing Publishing Content creation Market research
  1. Substack is packed with all kinds of content, making it hard to find what matters to you. It's better to think about how to reach a wider audience rather than just focusing on your own style.
  2. The platform seems to have more older writers than younger ones. Younger writers might not realize how useful Substack can be for launching their careers.
  3. Substack shows the power of democratic expression with lots of voices and ideas. However, the vast amount of content can make it feel overwhelming and make each writer feel less unique.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 939 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Publishing Literary Criticism Authorship
  1. Honor Levy's book, 'My First Book', received harsh criticism for not living up to the hype. It's seen as lacking depth and is heavily marketed despite its flaws.
  2. Alexandre Lefebvre's 'Liberalism as a Way of Life' presents liberalism as an ethical way to live. He explores its historical roots and addresses modern challenges to liberal values.
  3. Lefebvre emphasizes the need for strong institutions to support liberalism. He believes that simply promoting good behavior isn't enough without collective action.

14 Poems

Tao Lin • 1079 implied HN points • 06 Jul 24
📚 Literature Poetry Creative Writing Publishing Book Reviews Literary Criticism
  1. A chapbook called '14 Poems' was published in June 2023 and quickly sold out. This shows that there is interest in the poems.
  2. The author has made changes to the poems and now has 13 instead of 14. This suggests that they are really committed to perfecting their work.
  3. They are currently writing a full-length poetry book, which will include these poems. This indicates ongoing creativity and growth in their writing.

Year in review, 2024

The Common Reader • 2799 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Criticism Media Publishing
  1. Subscriber numbers more than doubled from 7,440 to 16,068 in a year, showing strong growth. Thanks to everyone for reading!
  2. The book 'Second Act' received positive reviews from well-known publications, highlighting its appeal to late bloomers seeking success.
  3. Popular topics on The Common Reader included essays on literary criticism and cultural commentary, reflecting a mix of interests among readers.

Open Thread Because Book

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 62 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books Writing Publishing Authors Reviews
  1. The author is working on a German translation of their book about pandemicism, which is overdue. They are trying to balance writing and keeping up with posting but have found it challenging.
  2. Maintaining a regular posting schedule while managing the translation work has proven to be too ambitious. The author recognizes this struggle and is aiming to finish the project soon.
  3. The text highlights the importance of managing expectations and deadlines when juggling multiple writing projects. It's okay to seek help or adjust plans when things get overwhelming.

Art in the Age of Slop

Counter Craft • 2332 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Authors Plagiarism Trends
  1. There's a rise in formulaic and generic content in art, like books and social media, as creators chase trends instead of focusing on originality. This 'slop' culture is influenced by algorithms that favor imitation over creativity.
  2. Even popular novels can suffer from issues like plagiarism, especially in fast-paced publishing environments where multiple people contribute to the writing. This raises questions about the integrity and originality of the work produced.
  3. Despite the challenges, creating original work is still worthwhile. Unique and thoughtful art can resonate with audiences looking for something different, and it allows creators to express their true selves rather than just following the crowd.

A Statistical Saga at a "Top" Journal

The Good Science Project • 122 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🔬 Science Research Statistics Publishing Peer Review Methodology
  1. Top scientific journals sometimes have trouble understanding basic statistics. This can lead to confusion and errors that affect research outcomes.
  2. A recent case showed that reviewing a paper could involve contradictory requests, like asking for a post-hoc power analysis, which is generally not helpful after results are already obtained.
  3. Researchers should not rely solely on journal editors for correct statistical advice. The system needs to improve how it addresses statistical issues in published studies.

Men, Substack, Novels

Notes from a Small Press • 45 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Writing Authors Reading
  1. The decision to publish a novel is not based on the author's gender, but on the quality of their work and insights about literature.
  2. Substack offers a new way to serialize and share stories, making literary works different from traditional novels.
  3. Many independent presses support good literature, but they can't compete with big publishers in terms of money and marketing, focusing instead on quality over quantity.

Grow: How Mikala Jamison turned her newsletter into a book deal

Substack • 1395 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Newsletters Author insights
  1. It's important to stay consistent with your writing. Keep putting out content regularly and connect with your audience.
  2. Don't stress about how many readers you have at first. Focus on writing what you love, even if it feels like no one is listening.
  3. As your audience grows, you can start charging for your content. Adjust your paywall based on the quality and value you provide over time.

Asimov Press' Latest Book, Encoded in DNA

Asimov Press • 277 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🔬 Science Biotechnology Genetics Publishing Technology Fiction
  1. Asimov Press has released a new book that is both in print and encoded in DNA. This is a unique way to merge traditional reading with cutting-edge technology.
  2. The book includes essays on technology and science fiction stories, exploring both current and future innovations. It is made with contributions from various companies to store the DNA safely.
  3. There are pre-order options available for the book, including a DNA capsule with a printed copy. They only made 1,000 capsules, so people are encouraged to order soon.

Sometimes Readers Prefer Paperbacks

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 965 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books Memoirs Reading Social Class Publishing
  1. Many people still enjoy reading physical books like paperbacks. There's something special about holding a book compared to digital formats.
  2. The author highlights key themes in their book, such as social class and upward mobility. These topics are important for understanding today's society.
  3. The author faced challenges with book promotion, including bias in bestseller lists. This shows how difficult it can be to gain recognition in the publishing world.

The Future Belongs to The Imposter Writers

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 739 implied HN points • 19 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Authors Publishing Inspiration
  1. Feeling fear and self-doubt is normal and can even help you grow. It means you're pushing yourself and trying new things.
  2. Everyone has their own journey, so don't compare your start to someone else's success. You are exactly where you need to be right now.
  3. Instead of letting fear hold you back, use it as a motivator. Embrace your feelings and take risks for the chance of amazing rewards.

Soon Will Come a Day That None of This Exists

Discourse Blog • 3400 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
📰 News Media Journalism Digital Media Publishing Online Content
  1. Legacy media is being replaced by something worse, with media-wide layoffs being a visible sign.
  2. Publications are struggling and dying due to financial issues, particularly affecting traditional print media.
  3. The future of journalism looks bleak, with the rise of individual-driven media leading to misinformation and lack of accountability.

Common Sense and Sensibility

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 30 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Publishing Cultural Commentary Creative Writing
  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.

From Beginner to Substack Expert | Interview with Sarah Fay

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1398 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Writing Tips Publishing Author interviews Content creation Online Platforms
  1. Many publishers are encouraging writers to use Substack to connect with readers and promote their older works. It's a good way to keep selling books that might otherwise be forgotten.
  2. Building a network on Substack is key to success. It's not just about writing; you need to engage with your audience and connect with others in the writing community.
  3. Unlike social media, Substack allows writers to grow their presence without constantly chasing trends. It offers a supportive environment where writers can focus on quality and creativity.

Medium Isn't Dead. It's The Era of Smaller and New Writers.

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1198 implied HN points • 09 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Authors Online Platforms Content creation
  1. Many new and smaller writers are finding success and growing their audience on platforms like Medium. It's a good time for fresh voices to emerge and make their mark.
  2. Big-name writers leaving Medium often create noise, but writers should trust their instincts and explore their own path instead of just following trends.
  3. The landscape of writing platforms is changing, but opportunities still exist. Writers can still build careers and connections if they put in the effort and adapt to new demands.

I Am The Friend Who Will Tell You To Get Paid.

Burnt Toast by Virginia Sole-Smith • 2712 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
💼 Business Money Self-promotion Art Publishing Gender bias
  1. The myth that true artists don't sell their work leads many women and marginalized writers to fear being seen as sell-outs, resulting in lower sales.
  2. Scarcity mindset conditions creatives to accept low pay and resist self-promotion, inhibiting them from knowing and declaring their worth.
  3. Shaming creatives for valuing self-promotion implies it's wrong to recognize and assert your own value.