In recent years, blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies have gained massive popularity and started entering various industries, including literature. Blockchain, a distributed database that ensures transparency and security in storing information, opens up new opportunities for authors and publishers.
With blockchain, it’s possible to create a decentralized system where each transaction is recorded in encrypted blocks and linked together in a chain. This eliminates the need for intermediaries such as traditional publishers and distributors, giving authors more control over their works. Most importantly, it enables automatic royalty payments through smart contracts, which can instantly send a percentage of sales directly to authors. It’s even possible to build decentralized publishing houses where readers can fund their favourite authors.
Today, several projects explore blockchain-related ideas and works available via the blockchain. Here are some of the most noteworthy examples.
Top 5 Books About Crypto and Blockchain
1. Mastering Bitcoin — Andreas Antonopoulos
A highly technical deep dive into Bitcoin, covering transactions, smart contracts, and security.
Best suited for developers and advanced users.
Explains the basics of cryptography and decentralization.
2. The Business Blockchain — William Mogaillard
Focuses on blockchain’s potential in business and economics, explained in accessible language.
Goes beyond just cryptocurrencies to explore broader applications.
The author is one of the first investors in Ethereum.
3. Digital Gold — Nathaniel Popper
Tells the story of Bitcoin and its early pioneers, from Satoshi Nakamoto to the first crypto millionaires.
Reads like a documentary thriller packed with real-life stories.
Captures the evolution of the crypto community.
4. The Age of Cryptocurrencies — Paul Vigna and Michael Casey
Analyzes how cryptocurrencies are reshaping the global financial system.
Covers regulation, dark markets (like Silk Road), and the future of money.
Written by The Wall Street Journal journalists with extensive interviews with key figures.
5. The Bitcoin Standard — Saifeddin Ammous
Compares Bitcoin to gold and explains why it could become a new financial standard.
Offers an economic analysis of inflation, decentralization, and the history of money.
Critiques the traditional banking systems.
Top 5 Cryptocurrencies Related to Literature
1. Bitcoin (BTC)
The first book purchased with BTC was Cypherpunks by Julian Assange.
In 2013, several websites allowed users to buy printed books with Bitcoin, marking the start of “crypto literature.”
2. Ethereum (ETH)
Most NFT books and literary smart contracts are built on the Ethereum blockchain. Given Ethereum current price — around $1,820 USD per ETH — it remains one of the leading platforms for digital asset creation and decentralized publishing.
3. Steem (STEEM)
The Steemit platform allows authors to publish content and earn rewards in cryptocurrency.
Some writers earn more on Steemit than through traditional publishing platforms.
4. LBRY Credits (LBC)
LBRY’s decentralized platform allows authors to publish and monetize their content.
It also promotes freedom of expression by enabling censorship-resistant publishing.
5. BookCoin (BOOK)
A cryptocurrency created specifically for the book industry.
BookCoin is accepted by several independent online libraries for buying and selling books.
Platforms Where Authors Can Earn Crypto
- Substratum: A decentralized platform where authors can publish their books and earn crypto income.
- Steemit: A social network where users are rewarded in STEEM for publishing and engaging with content.
- tapX: Connects authors and readers, offering cryptocurrency rewards for reading and reviewing books.
The growing use of cryptocurrency in literature opens up exciting new opportunities for authors. It allows writers to control their publishing processes and claim a larger share of the profits of their work.
However, this comes with some challenges, such as the need for technical know-how to work with blockchain and the financial risks associated with cryptocurrency price volatility.
Smart contracts — automated contracts executed on the blockchain — have the potential to revolutionize publishing. Authors can define the terms for publication, royalty payments, and adaptation rights without relying on traditional publishing houses.
Unlike the traditional model, where publishers take a large cut, smart contracts enable fairer, more transparent agreements. This could lead to a more efficient system that benefits everyone involved.
Blockchain and cryptocurrencies are transforming the economy and set to reshape literature. This integration could fundamentally change the publishing world, creating a more honest and direct relationship between authors and readers. The only question is how quickly and smoothly these technologies will become part of everyday life.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect the views of the CryptoTotem team. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as legal, tax, investment or financial advice. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility, directly, or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or connected with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in this article. Readers should do their own research before taking any action on this matter.