Trends that Never Go Out of Style by Eleri Grace

We are meant to be discussing publishing trends for 2024. But since I know absolutely nothing about AI and have no true insights to share about other possible trends in the publishing industry, I decided to go a different direction with this blog.

I'm focusing on the constants in the publishing industry, the things that are likely to remain true for many years or even decades to come. 

On the whole, reading is here to stay (thankfully!). That said, I believe increasing use of devices has likely reduced attention span for many of us. It's fair to say that gaining -- and keeping -- a reader's attention has never been more challenging than it is right now. Authors would do well to focus on what's been a truism in genre fiction for lo these many years -- the page-turner hook has tremendous value. 

Readers have so many options, and I think more and more readers are apt to abandon a book that isn't holding their interest rather than "giving it one more chapter." Capturing their interest right off the bat, and then keeping them moving through the book at a good clip to see "what happens next" is now more important than ever.

Speaking of devices, I also believe that, for NOW, many readers do still have a nostalgic preference for actual books. Many, myself included, appreciate the convenience of an electronic reading device or using an app on our phone. Gone are the days when I would pack more books than clothes for a beach vacation. But I rarely use my Kindle unless I'm traveling. The younger generations, however, might have a decreasing sense of loyalty to actual books, so I suspect, much as I hate the idea, we might in time see less attachment to libraries, bookstores (chains or indie), and actual physical books (though I suspect that transition is still decades away). 

Whatever format reading material is predominant in years to come, I believe another constant is the comfort and inspiration one derives from a rollicking good story. Nothing beats a story well told, and my hope is that as we move into 2024 and beyond, authors continue to find joy from telling stories that resonate with their readers. Not every author is meant for every single reader, but we as authors can and will find OUR readers by telling the stories we love and that speak to us. 

While many stories appeal to me, I'm particularly drawn, as a reader and a writer, to the WW2 era. A constant in the lives of my characters was the unpredictability and fragility of life. They celebrated the holiday season wherever they were, using whatever creative resources they could lay their hands on, and hoped they would be around to see the next season, never certain what the next season would bring in the way of more war or peace at last. Here's another look at some WW2 Christmas photos I've shared here in the past:

And to wrap this up, I hope all of you enjoy a warm and cozy holiday season, however you celebrate it, with lots of good stories!  

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