Today, Explained cover image

Today, Explained

Amazon’s garbage book factory

May 17, 2024
25:36
Snipd AI
Vox senior correspondent Constance Grady explores the shady world of online self-publishing, discussing AI-generated books flooding platforms like Kindle, deceptive tactics used to profit, and the challenges of combating low-quality content. The episode sheds light on the unethical practices of book creation schemes and the broader implications for authors and buyers.
Read more

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Publishing garbage books exploits readers by using clickbait titles and misleading content.
  • Creating trash books involves unethical practices like AI-generated content and fake reviews for profit.

Deep dives

The Rise of Trash Books on Kindle

The prevalence of trash books on Kindle has become a significant issue, where books with misleading titles flood the platform, drawing unsuspecting readers. These books often capitalize on trending search terms, generating cheaply written content through AI and clickbait titles to manipulate buyers into making purchases. This flood of garbage books not only deceives consumers but also poses dangers when misinformation, particularly in fields like mushroom foraging, could have serious consequences, even risking lives.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode