Bestsellers and the British book industry

The article considers the concept and significance of bestsellers in British publishing. There is a brief historical summary, noting the trade's objections to the idea. This was overcome in 1979, whenThe Sunday Times started to publish a weekly list. The methods used to compile it are described. The successive improvements to the methods, and their limitations, are analyzed. The authoritative lists published inThe Bookseller since 1979 are analyzed in terms of format, authorship and subject. It is concluded that paperback is the principal medium for popular fiction, but that hardback is still more important for nonfiction. It is further concluded that the range of subjects of bestsellers is limited, and predictable, leading to the creation of formula books. A link between popular television programs and media personalities and successful books is noted.