Here are the best publishing news and resource websites as identified in the 25th Annual 101 Best Websites from the May/June 2023 issue of Writer's Digest.
1. Jane Friedman
A mainstay at WD, Jane Friedman is the leading voice and most trusted expert in publishing today. Friedman’s website is home to her blog, her courses, and you can sign up for her award-winning newsletter “The Hot Sheet,” with a membership fee of $59/year. Also available are various free newsletters and email alerts.
2. Publishers Marketplace
A membership-based site for everyone interested in the publishing industry, Publishers Marketplace has a database of agents and who they represent, contact information for agents, editors, and other professionals, both domestic and foreign sales insights, a list of publishers and their imprints, distributors, and the latest publishing news.
3. Publishing Trends
Sign up for the weekly Publishing Trends newsletter to stay current on the key publishing topics and to see what’s making the bestseller lists around the world. Plus, visit the Categories tab on the website to find book reviews, monthly roundups of publishing job moves, and a literary agent contact sheet.
4. Publishers Weekly
Visit PW to stay current on new and upcoming book releases, data on what’s making bestseller lists, award announcements, and news articles on all facets of the publishing industry from manufacturing to marketing to trends in specific niches and genres. You can also access BookLife, their indie publishing resource hub.
5. We Need Diverse Books*
This nonprofit is focused on getting “books featuring diverse characters into the hands of all children.” They aim to support writers and illustrators through awards and competitions, grants and mentorships, and resources for parents, librarians, and educators to find out the latest news in the kidlit space.
6. Winning Writers
Winning Writers compiles legitimate (and free!) writing contests shared via their newsletter along with contests to avoid (frequently operated by vanity publishers). Check out their Resources page for links to other credible sources for practical information and inspiration.
About Amy Jones
Amy Jones is the Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest and was the managing content director for WD Books. She is the editor of the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market and Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market. Prior to joining the WD team, Amy was the managing editor for North Light Books and IMPACT Books. Like most WD staffers, Amy is a voracious reader and has a particular interest in literary fiction, historical fiction, steamy romance, and page-turning mysteries. When she’s not reading, Amy can be found daydreaming about Italy or volunteering at her local no-kill cat shelter. Find Amy on Twitter @AmyMJones_5.
