Teen publication Rookie Mag is shutting down because today’s media climate is especially harsh for indie publications. Following in the footsteps of beloved independent sites like The Awl, The Hairpin, and The Toast, Rookie Mag’s founder decided to call it quits rather than bring on private investors or charge subscribers. Securing ad dollars depends on reaching a large audience, which fundamentally undermines the smaller, cult followings publications like this develop. (The Verge)
