Still, Carlson enjoys the options afforded by cultivating a variety of distribution channels. Though percentages fluctuate, trade currently makes up only one-fifth of his book sales (Upper Access releases two to three new books per year, along with updated editions of existing titles), as he has been able to build a business in direct sales, and at author events and nontraditional retail outlets—none of which require that he accept returns.
Cover Story: Rethinking a World With No Returns
Still, Carlson enjoys the options afforded by cultivating a variety of distribution channels. Though percentages fluctuate, trade currently makes up only one-fifth of his book sales (Upper Access releases two to three new books per year, along with updated editions of existing titles), as he has been able to build a business in direct sales, and at author events and nontraditional retail outlets—none of which require that he accept returns.