Factors that affect "bestseller" status:
* Sales figures:
* The New York Times Bestseller List: This is one of the most well-known and influential lists. To make it, a book needs to sell a significant number of copies, but the exact number varies by category.
* Other national and international bestseller lists: Lists like USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Amazon, and The Sunday Times (UK) all have their own criteria.
* Genre: Books in certain genres, like romance or thrillers, tend to sell more than others. So, a bestseller in a niche genre might sell fewer copies than a bestseller in a mainstream genre.
* Timeframe: Some lists track sales over a week, while others track them over a month or longer.
* Format: The definition of "bestseller" can also vary depending on whether it refers to physical copies, ebooks, or audiobooks.
In general, to be considered a bestseller, a book likely needs to:
* Sell a significant number of copies: This number can be in the tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, or even millions depending on the list and genre.
* Rank high on a prominent bestseller list: This is often the most recognizable indicator of bestseller status.
It's important to note:
* There's no magic number. What constitutes a bestseller can fluctuate.
* Sales figures aren't the only factor. Critical acclaim, media attention, and word-of-mouth also contribute to a book's success.
Instead of focusing on the exact number, consider these points:
* Focus on writing the best book you can.
* Engage with readers and build an audience.
* Utilize marketing strategies to promote your book.
Ultimately, success is measured by your own goals and the impact you make on readers.