The Ink Plots
Weekly writing world headlines, contests, and tools for authors who want to stay ahead of the curve.
📰Writing World Headlines
1. Polari Prize Controversy
The Polari LGBTQ+ Book Prize is facing major backlash after author John Boyne, known for his controversial views on gender identity, was included as a nominee. Multiple judges and nominees have withdrawn in protest, and over 800 publishing professionals have signed a statement condemning the nomination.
2. Icodex Publishing Solutions IPO Surge
Icodex Publishing Solutions, currently holding its IPO (Aug 11–13), is seeing intense retail investor interest. The offering is nearly 4x oversubscribed, with a substantial grey market premium — a sign that capital is flowing into publishing tech and services.
3. News Corp Pushes Back Against AI Book Misuse
News Corp’s CEO slammed AI companies for using copyrighted works without permission — citing Donald Trump’s The Art of the Deal as an example. He called it “the art of the steal” and warned publishers would seek stronger legal protections for authors.
📅Deadlines & Opportunities
Bridport Prize – Short Story | Closes Sept 30
Writer’s Digest – Poetry Awards | Closes Oct 5
NaNoWriMo Prep Webinars | Registration open for October
🛠️Tool Spotlight
Reedsy Book Editor – A clean, free browser-based writing and formatting tool that exports to EPUB & PDF for both print and eBook.
💬Quote of the Week
“You can’t edit a blank page.” — Jodi Picoult
📌Call to Action
Reply or comment with your favorite writing resource — it might be featured in next week’s Ink Plot.
See you next week — same ink, new plot.
— KL Adams
Editor, Ink Plots