The Best Worst Book Ever
If ever there were an example of why publishing houses were, are, and will continue to be necessary, Aaron Rayburn, author of The Shadow God, has (unintentionally) provided it. By writing and self-publishing what one reviewer called "the worst book ever written," Rayburn has affirmed the need for publishing houses and their traditional role—to serve as gatekeepers to help keep really bad books from making their way to bookstore shelves.
Every now and then, it's good to be reminded that editors provide a vital service. It's also a good warning to wannabe authors that self-publishing is not for anyone with a fragile psyche.
And for those of us who write and speak about writing, a really good example of bad writing is always fun to find.
The Risk of Writing
