BOOKstore Economics

The episode explores the journey of a book from publishing to bookstore shelves, focusing on the crucial role of booksellers in determining which books reach readers. It highlights Fisher Nash, a book buyer at Carmichael's bookstore, whose decisions on acquisitions are influenced by factors like author recognition, publicity, and sales data of comparable titles. The episode also features Stephen Pace, WW Norton’s director of trade sales, who discusses the publisher's perspective, including estimating sales, managing print runs, and dealing with unsold inventory through remaindering or pulping. Ultimately, the episode illustrates the complex interplay between publishers, booksellers, and market forces that shape a book's success.