The World Loses Michael Jackson - Publishing Perspectives

By Hannah Johnson

OK, today’s bonus material is not entirely about books, but as members of the media and entertainment sector, publishers cannot ignore it. Michael Jackson died of sudden cardiac arrest yesterday on June 25 in Los Angeles, California. MJ, the “king of pop,” defined pop culture around the world for years. People immediately gathered in Harlem at the Apollo Theater and in Los Angeles at Michael Jackson’s home to mourn his death. The BBC broadcast a live streaming video for hours after MJ’s death. His Wikipedia entry was updated in minutes with details of his death. Apple iTunes raised the price of his hit songs from 99 cents to $1.29.

Moon Walk was Michael Jackson’s first autobiography. The book was published in 1988 by Doubleday. In the book, Jackson talks about plastic surgery on his chin and the various environmental factors that altered his facial structure. Doubleday, might this be a good time to release a commemorative edition of Moon Walk?

When can we expect the first book about Michael Jackson’s life and death?

READ: Michael Jackson’s Wikipedia entry

SEE: Michael Jackson through the ages

BUY: (while the price is still low) Michael Jackson’s first autobiography, Moon Walk

About the Author

Hannah Johnson

Hannah Johnson is the publisher of international book industry magazine Publishing Perspectives, which provides daily information and news about book markets around the world. In addition to building partnerships with international cultural and trade organizations, she works with the Frankfurt Book Fair to organize and support a number of its overseas initiatives. Hannah has also worked as the managing editor for an online media company, The Hooch Life, focused on craft distillers and cocktail experts. Prior to that, she worked as a project manager for the Frankfurt Book Fair’s New York office, managing various business and marketing activities.