I'm writing a book. Should I traditionally publish or self-publish?

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   TheWhisperposted 14 years ago

   I'm writing a book. Should I traditionally publish or self-publish?
   
   

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2. 61

   Sue B.posted 14 years ago

   I have asked a similar question so I am not an expert but I can offer some things to consider:
   Why do you want to publish a book?
   If you simply want your name in print, self-publishing sounds like the best option.
   If you are publishing in hopes of reaching a lot of people, I would analyze how well you think you could promote your book yourself versus what exposure a traditional publisher could offer you.  I have heard that some publishers "kill" a book and decide not to promote it so I would be careful about which traditional publisher you choose.
   If you are publishing for the purpose of earning money, I think you need to analyze both options carefully.  There may be hidden costs with either and risks with either. 
   Unfortunately I don't think your question has a straight answer.  I think in some situations for certain people traditional publishing makes the most sense while for others, self-publishing is the best choice.  It's a big decision. I hope you weigh your strengths, goals, and options wisely!

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   ThePositiveNogginposted 14 years ago

   Do what you think would be the best way of getting your book out there for everyone to see. Traditionally publishing it might be better for getting it out there since those publishers have the experience you may lack. Let me know how it works out!

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   duffsmomposted 14 years ago

   Traditionally publishing, unfortunately, is much like winning the lottery--rare.  Today's publishers, and this economy has very few of them taking a chance on a new writer.  Almost all of the bigger publisher require an agent.
   
   If you are a type A-driven personality, self-publishing may work for you.  It takes a lot time, a healthy ego and some money as well.

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   kannanwritesposted 14 years ago

   I haven't written a book but I know for first time authors traditionally publishing a book is time consuming and trying experience.
   
   Traditionally publishing requires less of your time to market the book.
   
   If you can afford and have enough time to market the book then go for self publishing.
   
   But consider visiting some publishing houses after you finish your book or the final draft. Don't jump the gun, you never know they just might consider your book.

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   lex123posted 14 years ago

   First try to look for a traditional publishers and send your story  to them.  Wait for some time (6-12 months), and  during that time write another book. If you don't get a positive reply from them within the stipulated period, don't waste your time looking for traditional publishers.  Just go for self-publishing and  then you can even publish it as both print book and ebook. You may not sell as many copies as a traditional publisher, but still it is worth it.  Ebook published through smashwords gets wider audience.

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   Muldanianmanposted 14 years ago

   The chance of getting a publisher interested in a first time writer is almost impossible.  It doesn't matter how good the book is, most publishers won't even read something they are sent.  Getting an agent is just as difficult.  This is a shame, because there are a lot of good writers out there, who will never get a chance, because the odds are stacked against them.  This leaves self-publishing as the only option.  However, you will not get the professional feedback that you need for your work.  These publishers are only interested in your money.  It can cost thousands to self-publish your book, and few publishers will promote or try and sell your work.  They simply print a few copies of your book, and you are then expected to try and sell it to book sellers, who aren't intrested in buying from self-publishers. 
   
   Even if against all the odds, you were to get an agent interested, and they are then able to get a publisher interested, then the money you will make from your book is not likely to be great.  I read an article, which said that for even the successful writers, who get published, they are very lucky to make a couple of thousand a year.

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