The publishing industry debates book blurbs

The publishing world is questioning the value of book blurbs—short endorsements from well-known authors printed on a book’s cover—after bestselling author Rebecca Makkai and Simon & Schuster publisher Sean Manning announced they were letting go of the practice. 

Makkai said she received five to ten blurb requests weekly, taking time away from her own reading and writing. Manning argued that blurbs favor connections over talent and don’t reflect book quality.

Do blurbs matter?
Blurbs help books gain attention, especially for lesser-known writers. Prize juries, booksellers, and critics often use them to decide which books to prioritize.

However, some believe blurbs are time-consuming, ineffective, and unfairly favor well-connected authors. Critics argue publishers focus their marketing budgets on bestsellers, leaving midlist and debut authors to rely on blurbs for visibility.

The debate highlights deeper concerns about publishing’s financial challenges and unequal promotional support.

While some call for reforms, others worry removing blurbs will make it harder for new voices to break through in an already competitive industry.