When you hear the phrase ‘bookish business’, your first thought will probably be a publisher, bookshop, or author. But there’s a whole community of businesses and professionals working behind the scenes to bring stories and non fiction books to readers.
A bookish business is anyone whose work is rooted in books, storytelling, and the reading community. From publishers and agents to bookshops, audio narrators, and book subscription services, bookish businesses are the threads that hold the literary world together.
Here are just some of the people and organisations that make up the bookish world:
Publishers
Publishers of every size are at the core of the book world. They discover stories, polish them, and bring them to readers. Blog posts and newsletters can help publishers share industry insights, showcase new releases, and highlight the authors they champion.
Literary Agents
Agents are the bridge between writers and publishers, guiding careers and spotting hidden talent. Sharing advice through blog posts can position an agent as approachable, knowledgeable, and trustworthy. These are all qualities that matter to both authors and publishers.
Bookshops
Independent bookshops are at the heart of their communities, while larger shops create in-store and online hubs for book lovers. Blog posts and newsletters are perfect for sharing staff picks, announcing events, and celebrating the love of reading beyond the shop floor.
Audiobook Companies and Narrators
The audiobook industry is booming, and narrators are essential to bringing books to life. Blog posts and behind-the-scenes content can help narrators and audio book companies showcase their craft, connect with authors, and reach more listeners.
Book Cover Designers and Illustrators
We all know that readers absolutely judge a book by its cover. Designers and illustrators capture a book’s content in a single image, often becoming a reader’s first impression. Portfolios are powerful, but blogs and social content can help them share their process and attract new clients.
Authors
Many authors run their own websites and newsletters. Blogging can be a brilliant way to connect with readers, share updates, and explore topics beyond their books. Author online content doesn’t just sell books. It also builds a loyal audience of readers.
Book Subscription Services
From monthly book boxes to tailored recommendations, subscription services curate bookish picks for readers. Blogs and newsletters are ideal for deepening that connection. You can share box contents, introduce authors, and build excitement for each delivery.
Author Services
Author services can take many forms, from editing and mentoring to design and production. Blogging about their expertise helps these professionals show their value, share tips, and attract new clients who need their help.
Literary Festivals
Festivals bring readers, authors, and industry professionals together. Whether large or small, in-person or online, these events create unforgettable experiences around books. Blogs and newsletters can help festivals build excitement in the run-up, share highlights afterward, and keep their community engaged between events.
How I Support Bookish Businesses
As both a published author and a copywriter, I have a foot in each camp. I understand what it’s like to create stories, and I know how to craft content that helps businesses grow.
For bookish businesses, I provide blog posts, web copy, and content ideas that:
- take away the stress of writing
- showcase expertise and personality
- strengthen community ties
- keep readers and clients coming back for more
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Bookish businesses come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: a love of stories and the communities built around them. Whether you’re running a bookshop, guiding authors as a literary agent, designing unforgettable covers, or hosting a festival, your work matters to readers.
If you’d like help sharing your story through blog posts, web copy, or newsletters, I’d love to help. Together, we can create content that reflects your passion and keeps your audience connected to what you do best: bringing books into the world.
Drop me an email at fiona@fiphillipscopywriter.com
