Tag: self publish

Book Design, Cheri Speaks

Submitting Native Files Can Save You Money

Many self-publishing authors are concerned about submitting print ready files. Often, an author will submit print ready files only to discover that the files do not meet on-demand printing requirements. This results in frustration, extra work, and additional fees. To help you better understand the process and avoid spending extra money, here is some basic information you need to know about print ready files and on-demand printing requirements.

On-demand Printing is Unique

On-demand printing is different from offset and home printing. Therefore, the requirements are different. On-demand printing is digital, and machines are not recalibrated to complement the book and file settings. Therefore, the file needs to meet the on-demand requirements.

Your Files Need Reviewed

Authors who submit print ready files often complain about being charged for the self-publishing company reviewing the files. However, many authors will submit print ready files that are not correctly formatted. This results in frustration and extra fees. To avoid this, authors can submit native files and allow the designers at the publishing company to format the book.

Cheri Breeding ABOUT CHERI BREEDING: Since 2005 Cheri Breeding has been working as the Director of Production for Outskirts Press. In that time, she has been an instrumental component of every aspect of the Production Department, performing the roles of an Author Representative, Book Designer, Customer Service Representative, Title Production Supervisor, Production Manager and, Director of Production. She brings all that experience and knowledge, along with an unparalleled customer-service focus, to help self-publishing authors reach high-quality book publication more efficiently, professionally, and affordably.
Self-Publishing, Wendy Speaks

LCCN Explained

If you’re wondering what the heck a LCCN is, you’re in the right place. Here is a brief explanation of the four-letter acronym and why you need one.

What is LCCN?

LCCN stands for Library of Congress Control Number. Instead of using an ISBN to track titles, libraries use a LCCN.

Why do you need one?

To be eligible for distribution in the library system, your title must have a LCCN. Children’s book authors should definitely get a LCCN so their book can be available both in public and school libraries.

To learn more about LCCNs, check out these previous post.

LOC Acronyms Explained

How to Get Your Self-Published Book in a Library

Who Needs an LCCN?

ABOUT WENDY STETINA: Wendy Stetina is a sales and marketing professional with over 30 years experience in the printing and publishing industry. Wendy works as the Director of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable customer service reps and publishing consultants; and together, they all focus on educating authors on the self-publishing process in order to help them publish the book of their dreams. Whether you are a professional looking to take your career to the next level with platform-driven non-fiction, or a novelist seeking fame, fortune, and/or personal fulfillment, Wendy Stetina can put you on the right path.
Self-Publishing Book Review of the Week

Weekly Self-Published Book Review: True to Life

Book reviews are a great way for self-publishing authors to gain exposure. After all, how can someone buy your book if he or she doesn’t know it exists? Paired with other elements of your book promotion strategy, requesting reviews is a great way to get people talking about what you’ve written.

When we read good reviews, we definitely like to share them. It gives the author a few (permanent) moments of fame and allows us to let the community know about a great book. Here’s this week’s book review by Midwest Book Review:

True to Life

Duane Ashley Pool

Publisher: Outskirts Press

ISBN: 9781432729035

Reviewer: Willis M. Buhle

The vitality of youth is an essence that everyone who grows past it yearns for once more. “True to Life” presents Duane Ashley Poole’s youthful vigor in poetry form, as he blends hip hop and rap with traditional poetry. Worth considering for those looking for something different in poetry, “True to Life” is recommended.

Book Design, Book Marketing, Cheri Speaks, Choosing a Publisher, Uncategorized

Choosing a Self Publisher

Self publishing is a big decision. Before jumping in, you need to research your options and pick a self publisher that meshes with your needs and goals. Here are three things you should look for when choosing a self-publishing company.

Design Options

Review the company’s interior and cover options. Most companies have standards for each genre. These standards are typically based on what is most viable in the marketplace.

Internal Processes

Each company has a process for handling the publication process, and requesting exceptions to this process can result in extra fees.

Prices and Options

Each company offers a variety of services during production and marketing. Find out what each company offers and the prices.

I’d love to know, what factors helped you choose a self-publishing company?

Cheri Breeding ABOUT CHERI BREEDING: Since 2005 Cheri Breeding has been working as the Director of Production for Outskirts Press. In that time, she has been an instrumental component of every aspect of the Production Department, performing the roles of an Author Representative, Book Designer, Customer Service Representative, Title Production Supervisor, Production Manager and, Director of Production. She brings all that experience and knowledge, along with an unparalleled customer-service focus, to help self-publishing authors reach high-quality book publication more efficiently, professionally, and affordably.
Book Design, Uncategorized, Wendy Speaks

Illustrations Affect the Success of Your Children’s Book

So – you have written a charming children’s story. Your children and all of your friends’ children love the storyline and the characters. You dream of becoming a published author. Perhaps you have ideas for a series that involve many stories with the same characters. Bringing those figures to life with an investment in high quality illustrations will contribute to the success of your book.

 I regularly tell authors: if you do not purchase one of our professional illustration sets, please hire an independent graphic illustrator to create your images. Make sure that you get a release from the artist giving you permission to use the illustrations and always get in writing that they will not be receiving any portion of the royalties from your book.

If you want your book to be taken seriously, you need to spend a little money to make it look professional.

 

ABOUT WENDY STETINA: Wendy Stetina is a sales and marketing professional with over 30 years experience in the printing and publishing industry. Wendy works as the Director of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable customer service reps and publishing consultants; and together, they all focus on educating authors on the self-publishing process in order to help them publish the book of their dreams. Whether you are a professional looking to take your career to the next level with platform-driven non-fiction, or a novelist seeking fame, fortune, and/or personal fulfillment, Wendy Stetina can put you on the right path.