Self Publishing Weekly News

June 23, 2026

Self Publishing Weekly News, June 23, 2026

1. MindStir Media Ranked Among Best Self-Publishing Companies

MindStir Media announced that it has been recognized among the leading self-publishing companies, highlighting its author-support model that combines editing, design, publishing, distribution, and marketing services. The recognition reflects the continued growth of assisted self-publishing, where authors seek professional guidance while maintaining ownership of their work and creative control over the publishing process.

Reference: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/920293753/mindstir-media-ranked-among-best-self-publishing-companies

2. IMHO: I Wouldn’t Blame Libraries for Declining Author Income

Publishing expert Jane Friedman argues that libraries are not the primary reason for declining author earnings. Drawing on industry data, she suggests that broader market shifts, increasing competition, and changes in book discovery have had a greater impact on authors’ income. The article also highlights research showing that established self-published authors can outperform traditionally published authors in book-related earnings.

Reference: https://janefriedman.com/imho-i-wouldnt-blame-libraries-for-declining-author-income/

3. Local Author Releases ‘Alters,’ a Dystopian Romance Set in West Michigan

West Michigan author Alex Bos has released Alters, a dystopian romance novel that combines speculative fiction with themes of identity and survival. In discussing the book, Bos shares insights into her writing process, world-building efforts, and experiences navigating the self-publishing journey. The article also offers practical advice for aspiring independent authors.

Reference: https://therapidian.org/local-author-releases-alters-a-dystopian-romance-set-in-west-michigan

4. Manhattan Book Group Recognized as a Top Hybrid Book Publisher for Authors Seeking Professional Publishing Services

Manhattan Book Group has been recognized as a leading hybrid publisher, a model that blends aspects of traditional publishing and self-publishing. The company emphasizes editorial support, book production, marketing, and distribution services while allowing authors greater involvement and control over the publishing process than is typically available through traditional publishing contracts.

Reference: https://www.einpresswire.com/article/920298440/manhattan-book-group-recognized-as-a-top-hybrid-book-publisher-for-authors-seeking-professional-publishing-services

5. More Is Less, More or Less: The Novella as a Legit Literary Form

This article examines the novella’s place within contemporary literature, arguing that the form deserves greater recognition from publishers and readers alike. By exploring examples from both classic and modern authors, the piece demonstrates how novellas offer a unique balance between the depth of a novel and the efficiency of short fiction, making them an increasingly relevant format in today’s publishing landscape.

Reference: https://www.pw.org/content/more_is_less_more_or_less_the_novella_as_a_legit_literary_form

6. Mary Ann Jensen, the 18-Year-Old Author with Seven Books

Mary Ann Jensen, an 18-year-old author from Utah, has self-published her seventh book, Rebound. The profile traces her development as a writer, illustrator, and independent publisher, highlighting how she began creating books at a young age and steadily expanded her catalog. Her story illustrates the opportunities available to young authors through modern self-publishing platforms.

Reference: https://www.deseret.com/entertainment/2026/06/17/salt-lake-author-mary-ann-jensen-publish-sundance-springs-seventh-book/

7. The Value of Legacy: Encouraging the Heirloom Picture Book Author

Barbara Leary explores the growing interest in heirloom picture books, works created to preserve family stories, histories, and memories for future generations. The article argues that these projects represent a meaningful niche within self-publishing, offering authors an opportunity to create lasting personal legacies rather than focusing solely on commercial success.

Reference: https://janefriedman.com/the-value-of-legacy-encouraging-the-heirloom-picture-book-author/

8. Paul McAllister on Founding Monster House Publishing

In an interview with Quill & Quire, Paul McAllister discusses the origins of Monster House Publishing and the path that led him toward independent publishing. After receiving advice to self-publish a project that did not fit traditional publishing categories, he developed a publishing venture that has since grown into a platform for distinctive creative works and emerging voices.

Reference: https://quillandquire.com/authors/2026/06/17/paul-mcallister-on-founding-monster-house-publishing/