The rise of self-publishing has empowered authors to bring incredible stories directly to readers, but bookstores continue to act as gatekeepers, making it nearly impossible for indie authors to compete on a level playing field. This outdated model doesn’t just hurt self-published writers—it limits the diversity and creativity of books available to readers, particularly in the middle-grade fantasy genre.
The Harsh Reality: How Bookstores Shut Out Self-Published Authors
Many bookstores claim to support independent voices, yet they impose unfair policies that make it nearly impossible for self-published authors to succeed. Instead of offering equal opportunities, bookstores create roadblocks that favor traditionally published books while pushing indie authors into financial risk and obscurity.
Bookstores force self-published authors into consignment agreements, meaning authors must front the cost of their books and only get paid if they sell. Meanwhile, traditional publishers have their books stocked without these restrictions. Why the double standard?
Many bookstores require self-published authors to offer a 40-55% wholesale discount and accept full returns. This outdated model leaves indie authors vulnerable, as they may end up losing money on unsold copies while big publishers absorb these costs without issue.
Despite owning the copyright to their work, self-published authors spend thousands of dollars on professional editing, illustration, and formatting. They also purchase their own ISBNs to ensure their books are market-ready. Yet, bookstores still assume self-published books are of lower quality and refuse to give them equal shelf space. This bias directly affects visibility, keeping indie books out of reach for potential readers.
Bookstores often refuse to stock print-on-demand (POD) books from platforms like IngramSpark and KDP Print, even though these formats allow indie authors to meet demand without massive print runs. By excluding POD books, bookstores intentionally shut out a significant portion of self-published authors.
But Aren’t Indie Bookstores & Barnes & Noble Supposed to Support Independent Authors?
Bookstores often market themselves as champions of independent voices, but their actions tell a different story. Barnes & Noble, indie bookstores, and other retail chains continue to favor traditional publishers, making it nearly impossible for self-published authors to compete. If they truly supported the little guy, why do they make it so difficult for indie books to get on shelves?
The “Trendy” Excuse: Why Middle-Grade Fantasy Authors Are Being Shut Out
Middle-grade fantasy has been a staple of literature for decades, with classics like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson still selling millions of copies. Yet bookstores and publishers continue to claim that middle-grade fantasy is “not trending.” But is that the truth, or is it just a convenient excuse to push other genres?
Industry trends are dictated by publishing executives, not reader demand. While bookstores claim to stock what sells, they actively limit middle-grade fantasy books, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. If readers can’t find the books they want in stores, how can bookstores claim they aren’t selling?
Middle-grade fantasy provides young readers with adventure, escapism, and creativity, yet it continues to be pushed aside for contemporary fiction or graphic novels simply because publishers say so. If bookstores truly cared about what readers want, they would stop suppressing this beloved genre.
Bookstores Are Driving Self-Published Authors to Find Alternative Success
Bookstores may be shutting out indie authors, but self-published writers are fighting back by thriving in other ways.
Instead of relying on bookstores, authors are successfully selling directly through their own websites, Amazon, and Bookshop.org. By building a loyal readership, they can bypass the bookstore gatekeepers altogether.
Schools and libraries are actively looking for engaging, diverse books. By connecting directly with educators and librarians, self-published authors can get their books into the hands of young readers without bookstore interference.
Social media platforms like TikTok (BookTok), Instagram (Bookstagram), and YouTube allow self-published authors to create their own marketing success. Viral book trends are often driven by readers—not bookstores.
Rather than waiting for bookstores to change, self-published authors are collaborating to amplify their voices. By cross-promoting books, supporting each other, and creating their own platforms, indie authors are proving they don’t need bookstores to succeed.
The Future: Will Bookstores Wake Up or Continue to Alienate Indie Authors?
The world is changing, and bookstores that continue to shut out self-published authors risk falling behind. Readers are turning to online platforms to find the books they want, and if bookstores refuse to adapt, they will lose relevance in the rapidly evolving publishing landscape.
If you’re a self-published author who has been rejected by bookstores, share your experience in the comments below! It’s time to call out these outdated practices and demand change for indie authors and the middle-grade fantasy market.
