Why the Publishing Industry Needs Inclusive and Strategic PR: Supporting Black and Marginalised Authors Beyond the Book Launch

In the publishing world, a successful book launch often marks the culmination of months, even years of hard work from the inception to publication, it can be an exciting and worthwhile time. But for many Black and marginalised authors, what happens after publication matters just as much as the lead-up. A powerful launch doesn’t guarantee visibility, longevity or meaningful reader engagement which is why an inclusive and strategic PR is vital, not just as a one-off campaign, but as an ongoing tool for amplifying voices, building cultural relevance,= and supporting author careers beyond the first press release.

We’ve worked with authors, publishers and imprints who are committed to changing the narrative within publishing. However the reality is that the UK’s publishing industry’s traditional PR models often don’t reflect the nuances, communities and storytelling needs of underrepresented writers. It’s time for a shift that centres cultural insight, audience authenticity and long-term strategy.

Publishing teams regularly invest in media plans to support launch day coverage often through mainstream broadsheets, trade magazines, and book review blogs. While these are valuable platforms, they don’t always connect with the audiences that marginalised authors are writing for or about. Post-launch, coverage often tapers off, especially if authors don’t already have a public platform or if their work challenges conventional narratives. Without continued engagement, vital stories risk being forgotten in the fast-moving cycle of publishing publicity.

Strategic PR, when done well, creates lasting visibility. It ensures that books by Black and marginalised authors don’t just make a splash—they make an impact. It means thinking beyond press kits and into personal branding, digital storytelling, podcast features, grassroots media and community partnerships. It means positioning authors as thought leaders, speakers and culture-shapers, not just book promoters for a few weeks.

Inclusive PR also recognises that not every author has the same starting point. Some may be debut writers with little experience in interviews or public speaking whilst others may be navigating cultural or institutional barriers that affect how their work is received. That’s why media coaching, tailored to the author’s background and values, is a critical part of our process at Ariatu PR. We help authors show up with self-assuredness and clarity in the media, making sure their voice stays intact and isn’t lost to industry expectations or generic messaging.

Moreover, publishing imprints that centre inclusivity in their commissioning must also apply the same principle to their publicity because without this, their commitment to diversity rings hollow. Readers can spot tokenism. Authors feel the difference between a team that uplifts them holistically and one that treats them like a moment. A strategic PR partner bridges this gap, ensuring the author’s identity and community are not just acknowledged but actively embraced in the visibility process.

We’ve seen the impact of this work first-hand. When authors are supported beyond the launch, they build deeper connections with readers. Their names stay in circulation longer. They’re invited to new opportunities, events, panels, collaborations, that expand their reach and impact. Importantly, they gain control over their own narrative, something especially vital for those from communities whose stories have historically been misrepresented or overlooked.

This isn’t necessarily about replacing traditional publishing publicity, it's about complementing it. At Ariatu PR, we collaborate with publishing teams to create campaigns that extend the life of a book, while also building up the brand of the author. We understand how to reach Black British, African and Caribbean diasporic audiences in culturally relevant ways. We’ve helped authors find their voice, shape their messages and own their story in media, online  and in real life.

If the publishing industry truly wants to support equity and inclusion, it must expand its approach to PR. That means working with partners who understand the intersection of creativity, culture and communication and who know how to navigate the media landscape with authenticity and intention.

Authors deserve more than launch week buzz; they deserve a platform. Publishers who invest in inclusive, long-term PR strategies will not only support their authors better, they'll reach new audiences, deepen brand trust and create impact that lasts far beyond the shelf life of a single campaign.

Ready to elevate your authors’ voices with strategic, culturally aligned PR? Contact Ariatu PR to explore how we can collaborate.