Crump’s Debut Novel Delivers Big Wins for Black Independent Booksellers

February 25, 2026

Attorney Ben Crump has released his debut legal thriller novel "Worse Than a Lie," which sold approximately 25,000 copies in its first week and caused several Black-owned bookstores to sell out their initial inventory. Rather than focusing on major chain retailers, Crump intentionally partnered with Black-owned independent bookstores nationwide for his book tour signings and events. The novel follows lawyer Beau Lee Cooper investigating a case involving a wrongful conviction stemming from a violent traffic stop in 2008.

Who is affected

Black-owned independent bookstores across the United States (including Baldwin & Co., Da Book Joint, Mahogany Books, Malik Books, Marcus Books, The Dock Bookshop, and Underground Books)
Kevin Johnson (founder and president of the National Association of Black Bookstores)
Black communities served by these bookstores
Families and businesses connected to independent Black retailers
Ben Crump (as author)

What action is being taken

Ben Crump is conducting book signings, conversations, and community gatherings at Black-owned bookstores
Black-owned bookstores are hosting tour events and selling copies of the novel
The National Association of Black Bookstores is facilitating purchases

Why it matters

This matters because it demonstrates how intentional support from high-profile figures can directly strengthen Black-owned businesses and cultural institutions. The strategic partnership provides crucial revenue to independent bookstores that serve as community centers offering literacy programs, youth initiatives, and cultural gatherings. The success also occurs during a significant growth period for Black-owned bookstores nationwide, helping sustain their expansion and their role in preserving and sharing African American stories and heritage.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer