As we watch job cuts coming like crazy this week by Cat and Sprint, one thing to keep in mind is that the book industry is, like everyone else, under fire. Few publishers are bringing on new authors, and older, more etsbalished authors, are finding it harder and harder to get their new books into the market.

It's not easy for anyone right now, and with people having the option to go to their local libraries to check out a book instead of buying it, it's only making things worse for everyone in the industry. Consumers have to cut corners when the money runs dry, and one of the first things to go is luxury items, like entertainment.

Publishers are turning more to their heavy hitters, authors they know will make them strong sales to survive these down times. Are we headed for a depression? No one knows for sure. I hope not, cause it may scare a lot of new authors who actually have talent away from the industry. Who knows, maybe the next Stephenie Meyer or Rowling won't ever come to light because of the state of the economy. That would truly be a shame. But, one thing is for sure, it's going to force every author out there to turn in more quality manuscripts. That, of course, will help keep devoted readers coming back for more.