Here is a round-up of some of the latest writing news in the world of journalism and publishing.
Media Journalists' Top Stories of the Year – and What it Means for You in 2026 (UK)
"What opportunities emerged for small media? How did publishers try to convince young audiences to pay for news? How was audience engagement redefined? And how did AI reshape the landscape? These questions and more tackled by those covering media innovation." (Journalism.co.uk)
Spotify Tests Audiobooks in Middle Eastern, African Markets
"The streaming service will include English-language audiobooks as part of a new Premium Platinum subscription it’s testing in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa, marking Spotify’s first expansion of its audiobook service into these regions." (Publishers Weekly)
Shireen Abu Akleh Prize Launched: IFJ and UPF Honour the Courage and Commitment of Women Journalists Worldwide
"The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Union of the Francophone Press (UPF) reaffirm their commitment to press freedom and the safety of women journalists with the annual Shireen Abu Akleh Prize, a €5,000 award recognising the courage, integrity and commitment of women journalists around the world." (IFJ)
Your Questions Answered: Lessons in AI from Beyond Journalism
"You wanted to know how AI will impact the workforce, which industries lead AI adoption and why AI projects fail. Futurist Andrew Grill has you covered." (Journalism.co.uk)
111 Journalists Killed This Year, According to the IFJ
"One hundred and eleven journalists, including seven women, have been killed in 2025, according to the International Federation of Journalists’ (IFJ) annual report on journalists and media professionals killed in 2025. Launched ahead of Human Rights Day (10 December), the report’s findings highlight another highly lethal year for journalists and media workers - with 46% of the deaths occurring in Gaza, Palestine." (IFJ)
‘Suddenly, It was Everywhere’: Why Some Books Become Blockbusters Overnight
"Whether it’s through TikTok buzz, celebrity endorsements or good old-fashioned word of mouth, some titles enjoy a second, more powerful, life. But what unites them – and is there a formula for this type of success?" (Guardian)
Read more writing and publishing news.
