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The Shameless Book Club
Cheating the New York Times Best Seller list
Dec 14, 2023
Explore the origins and manipulation of the New York Times Best Seller list, including tactics used by authors. Learn about the power and prestige of being a best-selling author and the undisclosed method of calculation. Discover the controversial rise of 'Handbook for Models' to the top of the list and the aftermath of the controversy. Delve into the fascination with cheating the bestseller list and stories of individuals who have found loopholes.
38:09
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Quick takeaways
- The New York Times Best Seller list started as a calculation of book sales in New York City and later expanded nationwide, impacting the prestige and sales of authors who make the list.
- Questionable tactics like bulk purchases and the use of marketing firms can be employed to manipulate book sales and secure a spot on the New York Times Best Seller list.
Deep dives
The Fascinating History of the New York Times Bestsellers List
The podcast episode explores the history and significance of the New York Times bestsellers list. It reveals that the list was initially limited to calculating book sales in New York City but later expanded to include sales nationwide. The episode discusses the various categories and genres included in the list, with a focus on fiction and nonfiction. It also highlights the importance and prestige of being a New York Times bestseller, citing a study that shows an increase in sales for debut authors who make the list. The podcast explores the methods of calculating the list and the potential for gaming the system. It delves into the use of bulk purchases and marketing firms to artificially boost book sales and secure a spot on the list. The episode also features a case study of a controversial book, "Handbook for Mortals," which managed to reach number one on the young adult hardcover bestsellers list through questionable means.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode