Simon & Schuster, a Big-6 Publisher, Picks Up Self-Published Series

"Simon & Schuster is entering as yet uncharted waters for a big-six publisher: it is acquiring the print rights to an ebook hit and leaving the ebook rights with the author.
“This is a modern twist on the old paperback license, but in this case Simon & Schuster will be publishing the hardcover and paperback editions simultaneously. We’re thrilled to be able to help Wool achieve greater distribution at retail and bring this talented writer to a larger audience,” said Julia Prosser, assistant director of publicity for Simon & Schuster.
The Bookseller is reporting that in the UK Century has acquired both the print and ebook rights for the title.
—Wool Author Hugh Howey and his agent Kristin Nelson will be presenting at Digital Book World 2013."— Story from Digital Book World

On goodreads

"Originally a self-published short story, WOOL was first released in July 2011. Within months, word of mouth turned this small piece, never marketed, into an ebook sensation. Reviews poured in and readers demanded more, inspiring Howey to continue the story. Howey published the next four sections of the book in installments, growing his fan base with each new release. WOOL has gone on to sell over 300,000 ebooks and is now being translated into over eighteen languages. Century Fox recently acquired film rights to the book with Ridley Scott’s production company partnering with Steve Zaillian for this option." 

What do you think of this? It's well known by now that self-published authors with success on their own can expect to garner the attention of an agent, or a publisher. But this is a first for a Big-Six Publisher. Does this encourage more people to self-publish?

What is your reaction?

Honestly, my reaction is to wonder where I can get a copy! Post-apocalyptic mystery? Awesome!

Here's the blurb:

They live beneath the earth in a prison of their own making. There is a view of the outside world, a spoiled and rotten world, their forefathers left behind. But this view fades over time, ruined by the toxic airs that kill any who brave them.
So they leave it to the criminals, those who break the rules, and who are sent to cleaning. Why do they do it, these people condemned to death? Sheriff Holston has always wondered. Now he is about to find out.