What’s an Influencer Worth to Books?

Platform has always been key when putting together a nonfiction book proposal. But back in the not-so-very-distant past - a mere dozen years ago! - publishers were throwing six figures and two-book deals at anyone who had a half-decent story and a clip in the local newspaper. These days, a huge following on social media, particularly Instagram, is a must for a book deal. 

The moment agents or editors hear an author has a small following or no following, it's over. Yes, there are exceptions. Still, worthy authors are overlooked every day - in favor of a young woman with a photo of macarons that went viral? Now her friend the ghostwriter has CAA shopping rights to her story? Which era is crazier?