Are You in the 16%?

by Linda Glaz (Linda S. Glaz Literary Agency)

Well, are you? In 2026, the stats tell us that only 16% of the population reads for pleasure. This includes audiobooks. These dismal figures are down from 28% in 2004. And why is this important to know? All of us as writers are collectively seeking that same market—a market that is dwindling year by year.

Can we afford to write a good book? It’s something to be proud of, of course, but is it enough to reach the level where it will connect with one of those discerning folks in 2026? In my humble opinion, a good book will no longer make the mark. Most great books will struggle as well. We’re in a time when a book has no choice but to achieve an undeniable level of excellence. The novel must be incredibly unique. Can you bring ideas that are new and exciting? Do you freshen up the romance formula? Do you tell the whodunit in a way no one’s heard before (not just another chalk mark on the ground)? Can your suspense frighten the toughest booklover? 

Think about this: there were thrillers before Carrie, but Stephen King took that horror to the next level. The story, characters, and setting were all fresh. There had been nothing like it. And with that, readers flocked to King, trusting him for book after book, in 1974, when 42% of the population said they read for enjoyment.

Now, don’t let the numbers discourage you. Rather, realize that you can be an author whom the 16% read. Be fresh. Have characters readers can’t wait to meet, and when you’ve done this in a new and provoking way, they’ll want to read more from … you.

Be an author who the 16% identify with through strong plot, real characters, and fresh voices. You have that rare kernel hidden within. Don’t be afraid to pull it out, put it in a story, and reach the 16%!

Linda is the proud owner of Linda S. Glaz Literary Agency. Her eclectic tastes in books are brought alive by the authors she represents. She discovers most of her clients at conferences or through referrals from other authors.