TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is closing down its book publishing imprint, 8th Note Press, as reported by The Bookseller.
Over the past few years, TikTok’s #BookTok community has played a significant role in shaping the publishing industry, helping to drive book sales and catapulting both traditionally published and self-published authors to viral fame. Recognizing the platform’s growing influence in the book market, ByteDance launched 8th Note Press in 2023, aiming to profit directly from the success stories its own platform was generating. However, despite the strong momentum of #BookTok, the publishing venture is now coming to an early end.
ByteDance’s attempt to enter the publishing world is coming to an early end. Many authors were initially interested in 8th Note Press, believing that its connection to TikTok could help promote their work and drive strong book sales. However, the imprint is now informing writers that it will be shutting down operations and returning all publication rights back to them.
The exact reasons behind the decision to close the publisher remain unknown. ByteDance has yet to issue a public explanation and has not responded to press inquiries from TechCrunch or other news outlets seeking more information.
