If you're just starting out or have even been at it for years, you've probably noticed that self-publishing has a bad rep. On most writer's forums and inside writer's groups, if you mention the prospect of self-publishing, you'll probably be greeted with frowns instead of smiles of encouragement. However, it isn't their fault for looking at it in such a way. Self-publishing has a bad rep because it's earned it. The main idea is that anyone can self-publish, which means essentially that about ninety percent of what's published is unreadable. Of course, this all comes down to who you ask and what kind of self-publisher we're talking about.
There's a reason commercial publishers only accept a handful of books to publish per year. It isn't for the lack of ideas or submissions, but rather the amount of work. It takes months of edits, typesetting, interior formatting and cover design to make a book as fresh as we see it on the shelves in bookstores. Most self-publishers don't bother with doing additional edits outside of maybe a handful of revisions. So in the end, what some may think is true. Most of what is published is unreadable due to formatting errors, grammar or spelling.
Another reason for the bad rep is because of what are considered vanity presses. These publishers crank out hundreds of books per month. After getting paid by the author, these publishers slap a stock image on the cover, change the font a bit and call it done. They don't offer editing services unless the author pays for them and half the time the book is formatted incorrectly as a result. These companies aren't in business to publish books, they're in business to make money.
So, how can you avoid the bad rep? Self-publish. This isn't to be confused with submitting your book to places such as Lulu or Createspace. As a self-publisher, you're responsible for everything. Purchase an ISBN number, get a read editor to read over your work, hire a cover artist and find a printer or distribution channel that allows returns. Most sites that go on about helping you self-publish won't accept returns. Returns as well as wholesale pricing’s essential for those wanting to get placed in bookstores.
In the end, the best way to self-publish is to be patient. Once you feel you're ready, contact a digital printer such as Lightning Source that accepts returns or locate the nearest offset printer. Either option will cost money as they both require the author, who is also named the publisher, to purchase and supply their own ISBN numbers. These companies will also charge for things such as the submission of your files and any edits you'd like to make in the future.
So, if you're just publishing something for friends and family, perhaps a printer like Createspace is best. However, if you have a larger audience, look into self-publishing with printers who accept returns and refund a percentage to book sellers.
Nicole Thomas - I've been writing for Suite 101 since 2010 and focus on topics such as publishing, online branding, marketing and self employment. These ...
Join the Conversation