In the US authors Ann Patchett and Amor Towles have launched the Book Industry Charitable (Binc) Foundation’s end-of-year campaign, I Stand with Book and Comic Stores. They are joined by fellow
bestselling authors, including David Baldacci, Judy Blume, Suzanne Collins, Michael Connelly, Anthony Doerr, John Grisham, Lauren Groff, James Patterson, Jodi Picoult and Dav Pilkey.
Patchett is herself an independent bookseller. In 2010 she co-founded Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee and has been a vocal campaigner for independent bookshops ever since.
Binc executive director Pam French said, “Stores need our support more now than ever. We’re incredibly grateful to have these authors join us in support of the book and comic people who preserve the right to free speech, the open exchange of ideas, and the freedom to read. The work of independent bookstores matters more than ever. Binc is receiving 60% more calls for help from booksellers and comic retailers than before the pandemic. Please join your favourite author to ensure we can continue our commitment to never turn anyone in need away.”
The campaign kicked off with a $15,000 matching gift from Penguin Random House. All gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $15,000.
“As publishers with a mission to create books for everyone, we couldn’t do what we do without our bookstore and comic book shop partners, who help us reach more readers everywhere with our books and stories,” said Jaci Updike, chief revenue officer, Penguin Random House US. “We are honoured to partner with Binc to support them during the holiday season and year-round.”
