Self-publishing debunked

It’s that time of year again. The decorations are going up in main streets and the city centre. Soon we’ll be hearing Christmas carols over PA systems in the shops. And whether or not we celebrate the season we cannot escape the commercialism of it. Being a self-published author I have resorted to Christmas specials myself. I am offering a copy of my book Little People Big Lives for a special price until 20 December 2014 – $25 with no extra for postage and handling.

Speaking of self-publishing, I can definitely recommend this to anyone who is exasperated with the process of submitting their unsolicited manuscript to the big (and small) publishing houses – with no success. However, I would only do so under the following conditions:

• Your book has a topic which could be described as ‘niche’. Mine certainly is – there are very few books about people living with dwarfism.
• You take the time (and pay the cost) to have the book well edited, designed and printed. AND you engage a professional book-cover designer. The way the cover looks and what it says influences your sales.
• You are prepared to put in the time to market the book once it is hot off the press. Of course, if your book does fit a niche market you will know exactly where to start.

In short, the secret of self-publishing is to do it for pleasure and then hope to recoup all or most of your costs. Hope this helps! GOOD LUCK.