IWSG 01 July 2026: Book Publishing Industry
QUESTION: – Is there anything you’d like to see changed, added, and/or rearranged about the book publishing industry?
MY ANSWER: –AI is becoming a major influence in the book‑publishing world, but my own focus is on writing personal blog posts for my Website rather than publishing books. I’m curious to see how others respond to this question and what changes they’d like to see in the industry.
Thanks to everyone who commented on my June IWSG post. I’m truly sorry I wasn’t able to visit your sites. I just read your June comments again and feel your warmth and support. Each one lifted my spirits in ways I didn’t expect.
Rick’s recovery has been my absolute priority. His journey began in a military hospital, and his follow‑up care ended up split between civilian and military specialists. Every day was a whirlwind of referrals, appointments, navigating the military prescription system, and arranging transportation.
Every bit of my energy went into making sure he received the best care possible. It took everything in me, and I would do it all again in a heartbeat.
Last month I mentioned that my husband, Rick, was recovering from a stroke and needed a virtual speech therapist. He finally got connected with one, and she’s already been such a huge help in his rewiring and recovery.
Every day he shows such courage as he rebuilds, reconnects, and gently rewires his brain—little by little—on his path back to strength and wholeness.
Insecure Writer’s Support Group (IWSG) is enjoying its monthly blog-fest invented by Alex J. Cavanaugh. IWSG is a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds.
The awesome co-hosts for our July 1st posting of the IWSG are Rebecca Douglass, Ronel Janse van Vuuren, Cathrina Constantine, and Jacqui Murray!
“Spread a little sunshine.”
— Jack Lemmon
Great to hear he is on the path to recovery!
Thanks, Alex
Thinking of and glad to hear your husband is recovering.
Hi Lee,
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
Great to hear he is doing well. My thoughts go out to you and him.
I’m glad your husband is getting the support he needs. You’re doing the right thing to focus all your energy on taking care of him.
Hope Rick’s recovery is progressing.
I’ll always remember your thoughtfulness when our friend nearly lost an eye to MRSA.
Hi Esther,
Thank you for your kind words. My husband has a great speech therapist and she’s helping him make steady progress.
Glad to hear your husband is making progress in the right direction.
I’m praying for you and your husband daily, Lynn. Stay strong. Glad to hear your husband is moving forward in his progress to getting stronger.
I’m glad to hear that your husband is recovering, Lynn. My heart goes out to you both. Being a caretaker is demanding and requires courage too. Wishing you all the best!
I’m so glad your husband is getting better, and you found a speech therapist. Your writing will be there for you when you have time to come back to it.
I’m glad you found a speech therapist for hubs! You must be so relieved. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
My husband had a stroke in 2010, so I can sympathize with you. These early days following Rick’s stroke will be a mix of learning new skills and feeling emotionally challenged for both of you, and yet, you have hope for the future. Every day, week, and month that passes without a recurrance is good news. Today, nearly 16 years later, my husband has regained all his faculties. We now only have to worry about the gradual progression of Parkinson’s (recently diagnosed). Just know that your doctors, friends, and family — all will be there for you. Sending you the best wishes for strength and perseverance. And maybe a sense of humor to ease each day!
Dear Beth,
Thank you for your sympathy and understanding.
I extend my thoughts of courage and perseverance as you and your husband focus on your most recent challenge.
Yes, our support team (yours and ours) will always be there for us.
Stay Strong, Stay Encouraged and Stay Awesome!
I’m glad your husband is recovering but so sorry he had a stroke. That’s terrifying. Take care of yourself as best you can. Caregiving is exhausting work. I’ll be thinking of you.