The big buzz in the publishing world is the Department of Justice’s lawsuit against five major publishers and Apple for colluding to keep ebook prices high though an agency-pricing model. This issue affects writers and readers alike. The outcome will determine how much readers have to pay for ebooks in the future and will affect writers' sales and royalties.
Several organizations, such as the Author’s Guild and the Association of Author Representatives, have written to the DOJ supporting the traditional publishers—and their high prices—and have asked their members to write as well.
In response, indie author David Gaughran has penned a letter supporting Amazon and its low-priced ebook strategy as well as its support of writers through Kindle Direct Publishing. David is asking other authors—and readers—who feel the same to add their name to his letter.
I’ve signed it simply because the DOJ needs to know the Author’s Guild doesn’t represent most writers. In all honesty, the agency-pricing model benefits me because it keeps my competitors’ prices high, thus encouraging readers to try my less-expensive novels. But in fairness to readers, I support Amazon’s position, which is to keep ebook novel prices under $10.
My point here is to simply draw your attention to the letter (and issue), so you can participate if you choose.
Here’s the link if you’re interested.
Thanks for bringing our attention to this issue, LJ. As a reader, I wouldn't pay high prices for an e-book, or at least I would buy fewer e-books if the prices were higher. And it makes sense to charge less for them, since the production costs are lower. And as you say, it gives indie authors more of a chance to compete against bestselling authors.
ReplyDeleteThanks, L.J. for bringing this to our attention and giving us a way to be heard.
ReplyDeleteGreat Post LJ.
ReplyDeleteI agree on both counts. High prices help us compete, but readers are really frustrated with them.
I wasn't aware of this letter, but it's good to know. Ultimately, I agree with you, L.J. This isn't about the authors; it's about the readers. They are the consumers, and they deserve affordable and fair pricing. Anything less is unacceptable.
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