Reflecting another full month when many businesses were closed or working under a range of limitations because of the Covid-19 pandemic, total net book sales in August in the U.S. rose 0.3%, to $1.94 billion, compared to August 2019, representing sales of 1,361 publishers and distributed clients as reported to the Association of American Publishers. It was the first rise in net book sales since February. For the year to date, total net book sales were down 4.6%, to $9.4 billion.
Again, as happened in July, trade sales rose significantly, compared to non-trade areas. Trade sales were up 6.9%, to $703.6 million, compared to August 2019. E-books, downloaded audio and adult hardcovers had the strongest sales. Excluding e-book sales, children's/YA, religious and university press titles slipped compared to August 2019.
Sales by category in August 2020 compared to August 2019:
