
Author Update Author Update's Predictions for 2026!
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Jan 2, 2026 Dive into the future of the book business as Thomas and Jonathan share bold predictions for 2026. They discuss the impact of Public Domain Day, highlighting iconic 1930s characters now available for authors. The duo warns writers about the risks of adapting later versions of characters, emphasizing the value of original texts. They analyze the rising costs of PCs due to AI demands and predict an anti-AI political movement forming. As indie publishing grows, they urge authors to focus on their craft rather than social media distractions.
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Public Domain Opens Story Opportunities
- Copyright duration used to be short and is now releasing iconic characters into the public domain each January 1st.
- Authors can legally write new derivative works of those characters once original texts enter the public domain.
Practice With Known Characters
- Practice writing by using public-domain characters to focus on narrative craft rather than worldbuilding.
- Use existing fan bases to increase chances of commercial success early in your career.
Characters Enter In Phases
- Many classic characters entered via short stories, so rights roll in as more stories age into public domain.
- That phased entry gives authors incremental access to character traits over multiple years.

















