Book Breakers are professionals employed by publishers to perform in-depth analyses of an advance copy of a book and produce detailed reports regarding its content and commercial viability.
Book breakers help publishers determine whether a proposed book has the potential to become a best-seller and whether investing resources to print and promote it would be worthwhile.
Book breakers are typically experienced professionals in publishing or editing. Their services usually involve providing a written report and meeting with publishers to discuss their findings in person.
Recent years have witnessed increased scrutiny of book breaker’s roles, as some critics suggest they no longer require one in today’s society with social media and book review sites like Goodreads.
Others consider book breakers integral to publishing, providing impartial analyses and objective evaluations of potential manuscripts.
Publishing refers to “breakers” as authors who are relatively newcomers to the industry and produce work that stands out. Although more seasoned writers may enjoy established reputations within publishing, breaking authors often generate greater buzz and interest with readers as readers gain exposure to different voices and stories that keep publishing vital and dynamic.
Breakers in the publishing industry are indispensable, not least of all, because they provide fresh perspectives and ideas that lead to change within it. Furthermore, they broaden what constitutes “literature” by including new genres and writing styles in literary works; finally giving hope for its future by showing that new voices are still taking risks and pushing limits in writing.
With disruptors, publishing would become more active and exciting. So when an author makes their debut at bookstores or libraries, remember that they are helping keep this industry vibrant and moving forward.