News for Authors

In summer 2016, the Penguin Random House Amazon sales team met with the head of the Author Central team to discuss frequently asked questions about author photos, new titles, and reader notifications. Here are those questions and answers: (more…)

At Penguin Random House, we’re always seeking new ways to foster one-on-one relationships between authors and readers. In today’s ever-changing marketing landscape, email remains an essential tool for reaching consumers with news about your books. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our newest automated email program, Penguin Random House Author Alerts! (more…)

Libraries are—and always have been—an important part of communities, and according to a recent Pew Research poll, most Americans share the same view. From tech camps and Wi-Fi to increased ebook presence, libraries have been challenged to shift resources and services to meet the needs of the twenty-first-century digital world. (more…)

The Special Markets sales team at Penguin Random House focuses on getting your books into markets outside of the traditional book trade. If you like to shop, you’re no doubt familiar with some of our top specialty retailers, such as Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Paper Source, Papyrus, Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and more. Read on to learn about five key places where we sell your books. (more…)

It’s time we looked at Snapchat, one of the fastest-growing and most-buzzed-about social platforms, with more than 200 million active users. Snapchat is known for its high concentration of millennial users, which makes it a great tool for connecting with the thirty-four-and-younger set.  However, recent reports show that older users are quickly taking to the app as well.  (more…)

Penguin Random House recently debuted Unbound Worlds (www.unboundworlds.com), an online destination that’s the successor to Suvudu, dedicated to the literary worlds of science fiction and fantasy. The website will offer readers insight into books and authors from all publishers and occupy the crossroads of science fiction and fantasy, including slipstream, pop science, fairy tales and folklore, magical realism, urban fantasy, and more. (more…)

Some writers outline their stories heavily, while others let the words and ideas flow as they come to them. In the end, there is no one-size-fits-all way to plot a story. Read on for some tips and tricks from our editors about structuring your next book. (more…)

Twitter recently made headlines by allowing all its users to request a verified account on the platform. A verified account is easily identified by a blue checkmark, which means it has been recognized as authentic. Prior to this announcement, verification on Twitter was limited to very public figures, companies, brands, and a few exclusive others. (more…)

Making videos using a smartphone is a relatively simple and economical way to create valuable content. In fact, depending on the goal of the video, smartphone videos can often be more appropriate than slick professional videos. Smartphone videos can feel more personal and authentic, as you are talking directly to your readers. While viewers are generally forgiving when it comes to quality expectations, there are several things you can do to ensure yours hits a comfortable quality threshold. (more…)

Last month Penguin Random House launched Subway Reads, a special eight-week joint promotion in partnership with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and Transit Wireless, providing subway commuters with access to five free Penguin Random House e-shorts, as well as extensive samples from more than 175 of our full-length books, to enjoy underground.  Announced on August 28 by New York’s governor, Andrew M. Cuomo, the promotion celebrates the installation of free wireless connectivity in more than 175 underground stations throughout New York City. (more…)