Ben Crump’s Book Tour Ignites a Resurgence for Black-Owned Bookstores
A national book tour by civil rights attorney Ben Crump is driving a significant increase in sales at Black-owned bookstores across the United States. His new legal thriller, “Worse Than A Lie,” is not only captivating readers but also intentionally directing consumer spending toward vital community institutions.
The Power of Intentional Support
Crump’s strategy of partnering with Black independent bookstores for signings, conversations, and community events has resulted in sell-outs and increased foot traffic. Approximately 25,000 copies of “Worse Than A Lie” were sold in the first week, with the publisher nearing limited stock. This surge in sales is particularly impactful during Black History Month.
“Black-owned bookstores are cornerstones of our community,” Crump stated. “They are freedom schools, gathering places, and platforms for truth. If Worse Than A Lie is helping strengthen these institutions during Black History Month, that’s a victory far greater than book sales alone.”
A Growing Network of Black Bookstores
The success of Crump’s tour highlights a broader trend: a resurgence in the number of Black-owned bookstores nationwide. According to the African American Literature Book Club, there are currently nearly 180 such bookstores operating in the U.S., a dramatic increase from the 54 in 2014.
Bookstores participating in the tour include Baldwin & Co. (New Orleans), Da Book Joint (Chicago), Mahogany Books (Washington, D.C.), Malik Books (Los Angeles), Marcus Books (Oakland), The Dock Bookshop (Dallas/Fort Worth), and Underground Books (Sacramento). Stores in cities like Tallahassee, Florida, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, have also reported record numbers of sales.
Beyond Sales: Community and Cultural Impact
The impact extends beyond immediate sales figures. Kevin Johnson, founder and president of the National Association of Black Bookstores (NAB2), emphasized the importance of intentional support. “By facilitating purchases of his book through the National Association of Black Bookstores, he ensured that independent Black-owned bookstores across the country directly benefited. That kind of intentional support matters. It strengthens businesses, families, and the cultural institutions that help tell our stories.”
Black bookstores serve as invaluable community centers, hosting author talks, youth programs, and civic dialogues. They play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Black literature and culture.
Future Trends: Strengthening Black-Owned Businesses
Crump’s success offers a model for future collaborations between authors, publishers, and Black-owned businesses. Several trends are likely to emerge:
- Increased Author Partnerships: More authors may intentionally choose to partner with Black-owned bookstores for book launches and events.
- Publisher Initiatives: Publishers may develop programs to specifically support and promote Black-owned bookstores.
- Community Investment: Consumers will likely continue to prioritize supporting Black-owned businesses, driven by a growing awareness of their importance.
- Digital Integration: Black-owned bookstores will likely expand their online presence and utilize digital marketing strategies to reach a wider audience.
As Crump noted, supporting Black bookstores is “investing in literacy, legacy, and liberation.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I find a directory of Black-owned bookstores?
A: Visit the African American Literature Book Club’s national database.
Q: What is the significance of Black History Month for Black-owned bookstores?
A: Black History Month historically drives increased attention toward Black authors and businesses, providing a crucial boost in sales and visibility.
Q: How can authors support Black-owned bookstores?
A: Authors can partner with these bookstores for events, book signings, and promotions, intentionally directing sales to these vital community institutions.
Did you know? The number of Black-owned bookstores has more than tripled in the last decade, demonstrating a growing demand for these cultural hubs.
Pro Tip: Consider purchasing gift cards from Black-owned bookstores as gifts for friends and family to further support these businesses.
To learn more about Ben Crump’s work, visit bencrump.com.
What are your thoughts on the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses? Share your comments below!
