Book sales in the travel sector have fallen sharply in the U.K., following the terrorist attacks on North America last week. Air travel is expected to decrease by at least 15%, but travel book sales were declining at a faster rate. WH Smith reported a 30% drop in travel titles and lower foot traffic in airport branches, as well as a depressed high street. Ottakars' travel sales declined by approximately 20%, while other areas held up well. Book sales fell 3% compared to last week, with the total consumer market in the U.K. down £600,000.
British publishers were in a somber mood. Many had colleagues and contacts in New York making pre-Frankfurt calls at the time of the attacks and, deeply shaken by events, have made donations to the trust fund for the families of the deceased.
Newspaper serializations of new titles in the U.K. have been canceled or deferred over the past week as editorial coverage of the disaster and its international implications has commanded unprecedented journalistic acreage. Only one British author has had his book withdrawn, and that was as result of an unfortunate quote on the book jacket. Christopher Brookmyre's novel A Big Boy Did It and Ran Away sported the phrase "Terrorism— it's the new rock and roll," which publisher Little, Brown recalled.
British publishers are slowly starting to focus on Frankfurt again: the majority are committed to attend and hope that the international situation will allow at least a small number of our American friends and colleagues to make it over.
