The Complainers and Blamers

Every now and then, I see people on social media who blame something or somebody for their own lack of success.

Most recently, a few writers on social media got upset about celebrities writing children’s books.

I can’t comment personally on how good any books by celebrities are, but the general feeling seemed to be that publishers see it as a fast way to sales. I don’t doubt this.

However, celebrities are people, and if they have a great idea for a book, any book, then why not? Especially if said book is written by a journalist. We do, after all, live in what is commonly known as a ‘free country.’

I see that the argument is that this blocks the success of lesser-known authors, but does it really?

I hadn’t heard of Charlie Mackesy before his book The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse ended up on the bestseller list for months or years.

J.K. Rowling needs no introduction. Previously unknown. And many more besides.

OK, it was harder for these unknown writers to achieve such success than it would be for a ready-made celebrity, but I don’t think we should be expecting publishers to turn their backs on potential business. After all, they are just that — a business. They need to survive, and if a celebrity comes along and boosts their coffers…