The Commonalities Among the New York Times Best Sellers

Why do certain books rise to the top of the New York Times Best Sellers list?

1. Author Recognition and Reputation

The common thread among many of the bestselling books is the recognition and reputation of the author. When an author has a large following, their books tend to generate significant buzz and speculation. This was certainly the case with JK Rowling, whose 20-year reign over the Harry Potter series exemplifies this phenomenon.

JK Rowling started as a relatively unknown author, but her subsequent bestsellers such as the Harry Potter series catapulted her into the limelight. Even her first attempt was rejected by several publishers, illustrating the low probability of success for many authors. The perseverance and popularity of her books have solidified her status as a major literary figure.

2. Subject Matter and Accessibility

While some bestselling books are critically acclaimed, others are selected for their mass appeal due to their subject matter. A notable example is Stephen Hawking's The Brief History of Time. This book simplifies complex concepts in physics, making them accessible to a general audience.

Despite the sophisticated content, the book's ability to capture the interest of readers who might not have a background in science made it a success. Hawking’s clear and engaging style helped introduce new ideas to a wide readership, further contributing to its popularity.

3. Sensational Elements and Human Interest

Books with plotlines that appeal to the baser elements of human nature often find success in the bestseller lists as well. Lady Chatterley's Lover is a prime example of this. While the book is not universally acclaimed for its literary merit, its prurient content has made it a sought-after and controversial work.

4. Current Ties and Public Fads

Bestselling books are often those that tap into current fads or public preoccupations. The imminent release of Prince Harry's memoir, titled the Duke of Sussex, is expected to generate significant interest. Harry's personal life and controversies have fueled public anticipation, ensuring this book will likely be a frontrunner for bestseller status.

Harry's announcement of his memoir was well-timed, coinciding with his grandmother's Platinum Jubilee. The mix of personal revelations and public interest around this event makes the book a sure candidate for topping bestseller charts.

5. Extensive Publicity and Advertising Networks

The success of some authors and books is closely tied to a well-orchestrated publicity network. These authors often appear on major media platforms, securing multiple interviews and appearances. This exposure helps build buzz and maintain interest in their work. However, there's often a stark divide between authors with established networks and those with limited recognition.

6. Luck and Discoveries

While many bestsellers are strategically marketed and scheduled for optimal release times, there are also instances where books and authors emerge unexpectedly as 'discoveries'. These are typically from unknown or obscure authors who gain traction through word of mouth. Their success is often attributed to a wave of public attention, which can propel them to bestseller status.

7. Competitive Landscape

It's important to note that the proportion of bestsellers to the total number of books sold is incredibly low, often ranging in the thousands to one against. This emphasizes the rigor and luck often involved in achieving bestseller status.

So, what are the takeaways? While some authors may have natural advantages, the road to bestseller success is often a combination of recognition, subject matter, publicity, and sometimes, a bit of luck.