Acquiring My Work: A Primer

John Scalzi addresses common inquiries about how readers can best support authors when purchasing their work. He emphasizes that buying new books, regardless of format or retailer, ensures that authors receive fair compensation. Scalzi explains that he is paid a percentage based on the book's list price for print versions and a percentage of the publisher's net for eBooks and audiobooks. He acknowledges the roles of publishers and bookstores in the book production and distribution process, stating that they provide essential services that benefit authors. Scalzi encourages readers to borrow his books from libraries, as he also receives compensation from library purchases. He notes that while he does not receive payment for secondhand book sales, he supports the idea of buying used books as it helps local bookstores. Scalzi expresses a preference against piracy but acknowledges certain circumstances where it may be acceptable, such as when books are out of print or inaccessible. He concludes by affirming that once a reader purchases a book, they own it and can choose how to manage that ownership.

- John Scalzi encourages buying new books to ensure authors receive fair compensation.

- Libraries are a valuable resource for readers and also provide authors with payment.

- Secondhand book purchases do not benefit authors directly, but they support local bookstores.

- Piracy is discouraged except in specific circumstances where access is limited.

- Scalzi emphasizes that readers own the books they purchase, regardless of format.