Self-Publishing Weekly Update for the week ending March 29, 2025

Here's your Self-Publishing Weekly Update for the week ending March 29, 2025:

Industry News

- AI and Copyright Concerns: Authors are raising alarms over the unauthorized use of their works to train AI models. Irish writers discovered their books on pirated databases allegedly used by Meta for AI training, sparking debates about fair use and compensation. 

- Unbound's Financial Turmoil: Crowdfunded publisher Unbound has entered administration, leaving authors unpaid. Its assets have been acquired by a new entity, Boundless, which promises to settle outstanding payments. 

Author Spotlights

- Robert Partridge's Quiet Success: Writing under the pseudonym Peter Grainger, Robert Partridge has sold over a million copies of his self-published detective series featuring DC Smith. Despite his success, he remains largely unknown in traditional literary circles, highlighting the potential of self-publishing. 

- Mark Pawson's Legacy: The art world mourns the loss of Mark Pawson, an innovative artist renowned for his self-published books and handmade art. His work transformed everyday objects into unique creations, leaving a lasting impact on the DIY art community. 

Trends and Discussions

- Debate on Market Saturation: With approximately 200,000 books published annually in the UK, concerns about market saturation are growing. Bestselling author Bill Bryson questions the rise of self-publishing, suggesting it may contribute to an oversupply of books. 

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Stay informed and navigate the evolving landscape of self-publishing with these insights.