Often, I talk to would-be and new self-publishers who get riled about the fact that a discount is expected on our books. Many think that’s unfair. Having worked in retail a big chunk of my life, I am a bit mystified by this.

Two items lit up the publishing world this week: The debut of Barnes & Nobles’ “Nook” e-book reader and thehardback book price war between Wal-Mart, Target and Sears. Let’s take a look at those issues.