In keeping with our tradition, here is an overview of the known BEA after-hours celebrants and events so far. If your event is not listed, that means you didn’t let us know–send an e-mail and we’ll update as appropriate. You can see that Tuesday is shaping up as BEA’s Big Night. As usual, this is a guide to what’s happening rather than a crasher’s manual; many of these events are invitation and RSVP, often in strictly limited numbers, though others are open. Congratulations and best wishes to all for successful gatherings. Monday Algonquin Hotel Grand Reopening and a New Literary […]
Archives for May 2012
Google Makes Zagat’s Free In New Local Service; Northshire Launches Syndicated Author Radio Interviews
Eight months after acquiring Zagat’s for approximately $151 million, Google has announced how they will leverage the company’s content on the internet. Full (and free) Zagat reviews are a major element in the newly-launched Google+ Local service, a “way to discover and share local information” designed to “improve the way you find great local information.” Anyone who signs up for the Google+ Local service can now get free, open access to the Zagat database, which was previously a paid subscription product. The NYT says that the company will continue to issue their 40 printed guidebooks. Director of product management at […]
The New New eReaders Are Browser-Based In HTML5
OverDrive is just the latest company to announce plans to offers an HTML5, browser-based reading platform. Called OverDrive Read, it is built with the help of the recently-acquired Australian company Booki.sh. The company will demo the new platform at BEA and ALA. “Unlike eBook apps or devices, OverDrive Read enables readers using standard web browsers to enjoy eBooks online and offline without first installing any software or activating their device.” Start-up Inkling made a similar announcement earlier in the week. Previously available only through an iPad app, their Inkling for Web is an HTML5 web reading app works for all […]
People: Execs at Disney and Curtis Brown UK, and More
At Disney Consumer Products, Andrew Sugerman has been promoted to evp of Disney Publishing, taking over running the division from Russell Hampton (who held the title of president). Sugerman joined the company in 2007 and built their Disney English learning business (with over 30 language learning centers in China) and he oversees all global English language learning efforts for Disney Publishing. Curtis Brown UK has promoted Jonathan Lloyd to chairman “following a strategic review and consultation period,” with Jonny Geller and Ben Hall acting as joint ceos “to spearhead the management of the company.” The partnership has also instituted “a new […]
Corporate: Indigo Q4 Sales Decline Despite One-Shot Kobo Earnings Gain; Flammarion Sale Negotiations Are Extended
Indigo reported sales of C$196 million for the fourth quarter ending March 31, down 2 percent from the previous year, while suffering an operating loss of C$15.7 million from continuing operations, higher than the C$13.7 million the company lost the previous year. But Indigo received a one-shot earnings gain of C$135.7 million from selling Kobo to Rakuten (booking a pre-tax gain of $165 million, presumably less operating losses from the unit). For the full fiscal year, Indigo revenues decreased 2.3 percent to C$934 million and the company reported net profits of C$66.2 million — of which C$94 million was attributed […]
People, Etc.
Publisher and longtime managing director at AP Watt Hilary Rubinstein, 86, died on May 22. He began his publishing career at Gollancz before moving over to AP Watt in 1965, rising to MD over a 27-year career at the agency. He continued to represent a select number of clients after his 1992 retirement and was also the founder and editor of the Good Hotel Guide, which produced editions between 1978 and 2000. Melanie Little is stepping down as senior editor, Canadian fiction at House of Anansi Press to focus on her writing. She will continue to edit a select number […]