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Self-publishing pros and cons

Self-publishing is easier than ever and it’s only becoming easier. The problem is, what to do with it once the printer delivers all those boxes to your garage?

1. Most self-published books look self-published. Between bad printing, poor design and an absence of proofing and editing, they often don’t look impressive.
2. Many bookstores won’t carry them. Publishers have access to a distribution network self-published authors do not.
3. Self-publishing still wafts the stink of stigma.

And yet, self-publishing can be successful. When it is successful, it’s because the author has a business plan to combat 1,2, and 3. The author hires an editor, isn’t shy about promotion, gets a website and/or podcast going and builds a platform to call a congregation.

The Wealthy Barber was an early winner in self-publishing. Publishers have offered to publish that book. The author turned them down since he likes to sell his own book, retain all the rights and keep the profits. Now he’s publishing a very successful line of cookbooks for other authors as well.

A few weeks ago I chatted with an author at her book signing. Lorina Stephens has 30 years experience in publishing and decided to publish her own books. They looked great. Now she’s become a publisher, as well. Next year her company, Five Rivers, will publish a bunch of authors.

It can be done well. The problem is that the vast majority are not done well.

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