Why 'New York Times Bestseller' Stands Out

When it comes to describing the popularity and success of a book, many marketers opt to use the phrase 'New York Times bestseller' rather than just 'bestseller'. This choice is deliberate and rooted in the significant cachet and prestige associated with this particular list.

The Vagueness of 'Bestseller'

It's important to note that using the term 'bestseller' alone is highly vague and can be misleading. A book that has shown up at the top of an obscure micro-category on one country's Amazon store for a single day could claim to be a 'bestseller', which lacks any substantial meaning.

The Prestige of the 'New York Times' List

In contrast, being a 'New York Times bestseller' means that the book has appeared on a specific, selective list that is widely recognized as a significant achievement. The New York Times bestseller list is one of the most prestigious in the publishing industry, and a book appearing on it is often considered a hallmark of success.

Other Important Bestseller Lists

While the 'New York Times' is the most well-known and respected bestseller list, there are other important ones as well. For instance, the 'USA Today' bestseller list is less famous but is arguably more impartial in its approach. However, the 'New York Times' list still holds more cachet in the publishing world, and authors often cite it if they can.

Citing Reliable Sources

It is best practice to cite the source when making a claim about a book's success. With the 'New York Times' bestseller list, the sales data are audited by a reputable source, which can be trusted. However, the criteria and threshold for inclusion in the list are often questioned.

Understanding 'Bestseller' Metrics

A 'bestseller' is a metric of sales in relation to time. This means that if 'New Novel X' sells 10,000 copies in a week, it is more likely to be considered a bestseller than a book that sells 15,000 copies in three months. The key is the rate of sales, not just the volume. Bestseller lists track regional and national sales, providing a more comprehensive view of a book's performance across different outlets.

Reputation and Trustworthiness

The 'New York Times' has been providing bestseller lists for a long time and has built a reputation for reliability and accuracy. Publishers and authors often cite the 'New York Times' bestseller list because it is well-regarded and trusted. This list is closely guarded, with a meticulous algorithm tracking a range of sales data from various chain, independent, and wholesale outlets around the country. The inclusion of books in this list often leads to increased royalties, bonuses, and prestige for authors.

Backstage Access: My Experience

Being a part of the 'New York Times' reporting process can be likened to a serious and meticulous endeavor. Prior to digitalization, we had weekly meetings to discuss and verify the sales numbers before reporting. The process was intense and required a high level of trust and confidentiality from our reporting venues. The focus on accuracy and the requirement for verification ensured that the information was trustworthy and reflected the true performance of books in the market.