Scottish-American writer and public figure
The Booker Prize longlist for 2026 has been announced with 13 novels from seven countries and three continents. It features former winners and debut authors, including Douglas Stuart and Elizabeth Strout, and is chaired by Mary Beard. The panel says the list expands boundaries and offers a mix of humor, dystopia, and drama. The shortlist will be revealed Sept. 22, with the winner announced Nov. 9.
Independent, author-owned bookstores have expanded in the U.S., with a surge in ABA membership and ventures from Patchett, Erdrich, Groff and Straub. Stores range from Birchbark in Minneapolis to An Unlikely Story in Plainville, reflecting a broader mission beyond selling books.
A wave of author-owned bookstores across the U.S. is reshaping independent bookselling. Notable spaces founded by Judy Blume, Louise Erdrich, Lauren Groff, Jeff Kinney and George R.R. Martin are expanding in Brooklyn, Minnesota, Florida, Massachusetts and New Mexico, offering community hubs beyond Amazon-dominated retail.