Weekly Update: Are Publishers Playing It Safe? Reading Goals, Gene Wolfe & Used Bookstores
Page Chewing · Nov 1, 2026 · 24:07
Page Chewing · Nov 1, 2026 · 24:07
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Are publishers taking enough chances on challenging and unconventional books? Or are readers becoming too comfortable with familiar stories?
This week on Page Chewing, I explore whether major publishers are playing it too safe, why readers should support experimental fiction, and how social media and annual reading goals can turn a relaxing hobby into an unnecessary competition.
I also share my final thoughts on Tender Is the Flesh and Pet Sematary, discuss my reread of R. Scott Bakker's The Thousandfold Thought, and prepare for November's Shadow & Claw read-along by Gene Wolfe.
Plus, I share some recent used bookstore discoveries, talk about the challenges of supporting local bookstores, and explain why I can't stand cracked book spines.
Join the conversation! Are publishers playing it too safe? Do you enjoy challenging books? And how do you feel about annual reading goals?
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