Kelly Speaks – Page 77 – Self Publishing Advisor

3 Reasons You’ll Fall in Love with Self-Publishing

Self-publishing is transforming the publishing industry. Universities are beginning to offer degrees in self-publishing. Successful authors who previously used traditional publishing firms are switching to self-publishing, and the options available to self-publishing authors are constantly improving.

Once you learn more about self-publishing, you may just find that you love this option! Here are three reasons why:

1. Control

With traditional publishing, the author has very little control over the fate of his or her book. Editors and agents decide if your book is print worthy. The publishing firm decides the cover art, layout, and price point for your book. Once you hand over your manuscript to a traditional publishing company, you are giving up control. With self-publishing, you are in charge. You decide when your manuscript is ready to be published, and you control the final outcome.

2. Quality

The quality of POD books has come a long way. In addition to better printing quality and a wider variety of formatting options, many self-publishing companies offer a variety of professional services (for example, copy editing and cover design) to ensure that you publish the best book possible.

3. Speed

Traditional publishing is a slow process. There is the dreaded query letters. The time spent waiting to hear back from agents or editors. If your book does get picked up by a firm, it can take over a year to see your book in print. The self-publishing process is often completed within a few months (or even just a few weeks). Not only does this mean you don’t have to wait to see your book in print, but it also opens up even more doors for authors. You can now publish books that are current and in response to readers’ desires.

I’d love to know, why do you love self-publishing?

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Vice President of Outskirts Press. In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com.

Kelly Speaks, Self-Publishing Week in Review

Self-Publishing Week in Review: 2/11/14

As a self-publishing author, you may find it helpful to stay up-to-date on the trends and news related to the self-publishing industry. This will help you make informed decisions before, during and after the self-publishing process, which will lead to a greater self-publishing experience. To help you stay current on self-publishing topics, simply visit our blog every Tuesday to find out the hottest news.

What Your Friends Can’t Tell You About Your Self-Published Book

This is a great article for anyone considering self-publishing. The author provides honest advice with a sense of humor. She compares self-publishing to American Idol and offers suggestions on how to be a successful self-published author.

British University Launches MA Program for Self-Publishing

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has introduced a new MA program in self-publishing, the first of its kind in the U.K. The degree is designed to guide students through writing, editing, publishing and marketing their own books. The fact that a university is offering a degree in self-publishing shows the impact of this option on the publishing industry and that self-publishing authors are getting the respect they deserve.

Local Authors Follow Self-Publishing Trend

This article talks about the growing interest in self-publishing and how some libraries are responding.

From Comics to Prose: Jerry Craft on Self-Publishing

Jerry Craft, an award-winning cartoonist, creator of the weekly syndicated comic strip Mama’s Boyz, and children’s book illustrator, was a self-publisher before it became cool. Last month, Craft self-published his first work of prose, The Offenders: Saving the World While Serving Detention, an illustrated middle grade novel co-written with his two sons, Jaylen and Aren, and focused on bullying. This is an interesting read for anyone considering self-publishing a comic or children’s book.

If you have other big news to share, please comment below.

Kelly Speaks, Self-Publishing Week in Review

Self-Publishing Week in Review: 2/04/14

15 Inspirational Quotes of Top Self-Published Authors

If you need a little inspiration, check out these quotes from self-publishing authors. This post is a quick, fun, and uplifting read.

Complimentary Self Publishing Guide from BookBaby

BookBaby’s How-To Guide for Writers goes beyond the eBook basics to help you create a digital masterpiece. Whether you’re a rookie or an experienced pro in the eBook world, BookBaby’s How-To Guide has something for everyone.

Follow-Up On Self-Publishing: Readers Are Not Good Gatekeepers

This author provides an interesting perspective on the quality of work that authors self-publish. The article suggests that even if a writer publishers a book that isn’t of the same quality of other writers, it is just a stepping stone to producing better work. The writer urges authors to always strive for their best.

Call It “Artisanal,” And 5 Other Ways To Crush Self-Publishing

Guy Kawasaki, former Apple evangelist and co-author of APE: How to Publish A Book, shares five tips for self-publishing success. My favorite quote from the article is “to be successful the process must be approached with professionalism.”

If you have other big news to share, please comment below.

Kelly Speaks, Uncategorized

Self-Publishing: 10 Things You Need to Know

If you are new to self-publishing, it can seem a little overwhelming at first, but there are plenty of great resources to help you decide if self-publishing is right for you and to answer all your questions on hot topics such as copyediting, copyrights, and book formatting. Below is a list of 10 must read articles for self-publishing authors. Each gives you helpful information to ensure you have a great self-publishing experience.

1. 4 Reasons to Fall in Love with Self-Publishing

Not only is self-publishing a huge trend among first time authors, but it is also becoming increasingly common for writers who previously used traditional publisher (and had great success) to switch to self-publishing. This article discusses the top four reasons why writers love self-publishing.

2. The Cost of Self-Publishing

The cost of self-publishing is a common question, and concern, for many writers. This article provides an honest look at the cost of publishing your book.

3. 5 Self-Publishing Mistakes You Can Avoid

Sometimes self-publishing gets a bad rep because of the amateur mistakes some authors make. This post will help you avoid those mistakes so you can be seen as a professional and your book can be taken seriously by readers and the publishing industry.

4. What is an ISBN?

This article explains what an ISBN is, if you need one, and how to get one.

5. Paperback vs. Hardcover: Which is Better?

This post discusses the pros and cons of paperback and hardcover books. It will help you decide which cover is best for your project.

6. Should You Create Your Own Cover?

A great book cover can significantly impact your book’s success. This article breaks down the pros and cons of creating your own book cover or hiring a graphic artist.

7. The Importance of a Compelling Back Cover Synopsis

The back cover of your book is also important. This article explains the importance of a compelling back cover synopsis and provides tips on creating one.

8. Copyediting 101

This article explains how copyediting is different from proofreading and why it is a good idea to consider hiring a professional copyeditor.

9. Top 7 Book Formatting Questions for Self Publishing Authors

One of the most popular topics I receive questions on is book formatting. This article tells you what you need to know.

10. Top 6 Self-Publishing Copyright Questions

Copyright is another hot topic among authors. This great article answers the most common questions, such as what is the fair use law and how do I know if something is copyright protected.

I’d love to know, what other questions do you have about self-publishing?

Kelly Speaks, Self-Publishing Week in Review

Self-Publishing Week in Review: 1/28/14

Technology: Kindle turns self-publishing on its head

According to this article, Amazon.com reported, at the end of 2013, that nearly 25 percent of the top 100 Kindle e-books are from independent publishers. (This is great news for self-publishing authors!) This story talks about how technology is changing the publishing industry, including the self-publishing segment.

PW Select January 2014: A Look Ahead to Self-Publishing in 2014

This Publisher’s Weekly article discusses what authors can expect from the self-publishing market in 2014. It covers “what the future may hold, what new opportunities may be available in the new year, and what challenges to watch out for.” It is a must read.

NYT Best-Selling Author and Finance Expert Dave Ramsey on Self-Publishing

This is a fascinating interview with NYT Best-Selling Author and Finance Expert Dave Ramsey. It is part of a MediaBistro series titled Profit From Your Passion. Any one understanding self-publishing should check it out.

If you have other big news to share, please comment below.

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