Why Does Self-publishing Matter

By Author: Walter Stewart
Total Articles: 37
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How Has Self-Publishing Changed?
Several years ago, self-publishing was associated with vanity presses. Authors would pay to have their own books printed, and then they would handle most of the marketing of those books by themselves. Some authors had very good reasons to publish themselves then, just as they do now. But this practice was still associated, in many people's mind, with lower quality work that could not find a traditional publisher.
Today self-publishing has become a very mainstream and popular alternative to searching for a traditional publisher Some very well known authors, who used to publish with a traditional publisher, have begun to publish their own new books. Others have never been picked up by a big name publishing house, but are finding success by promoting their own books and handling other aspects of their business. There are many reasons for this, and a lot of them have to do with the growing popularity of e-readers and digital books.
Why Do Many Authors Choose To Publish Their Own Work Now?
I could list a lot of reasons why authors turn to publishing themselves now. One of the ...
... biggest reasons is that it is very easy and inexpensive to do. Some major book distributors make it very simple for authors to upload their manuscripts into the system. It does not cost the author anything to participate, and in fact, the author can start selling their books very quickly.
Uploading books for distribution on e-readers has become very popular. However, new technology makes print on demand much easier to do as well. An author does not have to pay to get hundreds of books printed at one time, but can simply have each one printed as it is ordered!
The low cost to enter the market is one big reason, but are there others? Actually, many authors say they prefer the control they have over their own work. They can hire their own artists and editors. They can pick and choose how their book will be formatted and designed. In the end, authors maintain full control over the finished product.
Finally, many authors say they actually make more on each book sold by managing the process themselves. Royalty shares are usually much higher than they are for authors who work with a publishing house.
Should All Authors Self Publish?
Of course, a good publishing house will do a lot of tasks for an author, so the writer can spend time writing! Many writers do not really know how to market their own books, and they would benefit from having the support of experienced publishers, editors, and artists.
Many authors still believe that self-publishing is just a way to get their name out there so traditional publishers will notice them. They feel pride when that call finally comes in. Others have had offered and turned them down so they could just enjoy the freedom of being their own boss.
Self-publishing is not the right answer for all authors, and it is certainly no guarantee of success. However, it has become more respectable and common place these days. If you are sitting on a book of your own, maybe it is time for you to explore your options!

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