Here are the best publishing news and resource websites as identified in the 26th Annual 101 Best Websites from the May/June 2024 issue of Writer's Digest.
A * means this is the website’s first appearance on the WD list. All listings within each category are alphabetically arranged.
1. Jane Friedman
Jane Friedman continues to be the leading voice and most trusted expert in publishing and is a frequent contributor to Writer’s Digest online and in print. Friedman’s website offers her writing courses, her blog, and her free newsletter, “Electric Speed.” Become a member for $59/year and you gain access to her award-winning newsletter, “The Hot Sheet,” among other benefits. A free trial is offered.
2. Publishers Marketplace
If you want to know the most current information on what’s going on in the publishing world, this is your one-stop website. Their free newsletter, “Publishers Lunch,” gives writers an inside scoop into everything from new books to awards announcements. A membership fee gives users access to the job board, the database of authors, agents, and editors, and the deal tracker.
3. Publishers Weekly
Stay abreast of what’s happening in the publishing industry by signing up for PW’s free daily newsletter, or visit their website to view bestseller lists, upcoming releases, interviews with authors and publishing professionals, and essays from writers. If you’re an indie author, check out their BookLife site dedicated to self-published writers.
4. Winning Writers
If you don’t know a) where to find legitimate writing contests or b) if a contest you have found is legitimate, visit Winning Writers. This site includes resources for identifying scam/fake writing contests (including a list of contests to avoid) and frequently updated announcements for new contests and changes to existing ones.
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.
