HarperCollins to Release Exclusive Indie Bookstore Edition of New Kingsolver Novel

HarperCollins is releasing an exclusive edition of Barbara Kingsolver’s new novel, Unsheltered, for independent bookstores only.

To be available in limited quantities, the new hardcover edition will include a one-page letter from the author that addresses the indie reader directly, highlighting Kingsolver’s ongoing support for independent bookstores. The letter, to be highly designed with full-color border artwork, includes insight about the inspiration for the new novel.

HarperCollins will release the limited edition in 12-copy cartons; the book has a shipping date of September 26 and an on-sale date of October 16.

This effort by HarperCollins is part of a test being conducted by ABA’s new Pre-Order Task Force. Mary Beth Thomas, HarperCollins’ vice president and deputy director of sales, said the publisher is enthusiastic about supporting indies by helping to increase the availability of pre-order opportunities for indie customers.

“We thought Barbara Kingsolver would be the perfect author to create our first exclusive edition for the indies. Barbara graciously agreed and wrote a letter about her love of independent bookstores and why they are necessary to the publishing industry, especially now,” said Thomas. “This letter is beautifully designed and will be bound into the book for indie orders exclusively. We know the ABA members have been working on increasing preorders in the independent channel and we hope that an exclusive on such a highly touted book will help with that process.”

Although HarperCollins will try to meet demand, sales reps will be in contact with stores if order quantities run short. Booksellers should order now on Edelweiss to secure a carton of the new Kingsolver limited edition.

Booksellers can also learn more about growing their pre-orders at the new “Maximizing Pre-Orders” education session, which ABA will premiere at this fall’s regional trade shows. Bookseller members of the Pre-Orders Task Force will also participate in the session.