It’s not been long ago self-publishing was equated with loser writers. When someone said, “My book has been accepted by {add subsidy publisher of your choice},” and a traditionally-published writers nods condescendingly. Maybe mumbles, “Congratulations,” while thinking “You’re not a real writer.” Self-publishing meant “loser-publishing.”
Although the self-publishing image has changed in recent years, some writers and editors still look at it as less than professional. If that’s the case, why would a writer opt for self-publishing? Each writer has a personal reason, but a few rise to the top.
Market size
Have you heard memoirs don’t sell? When you read editorial needs of many publishers, memoirs are just one example of manuscripts dismissed immediately. Hmm, then one must ask, “Why are there so many memoirs in bookstores?”
Memoir writers aren’t the only ones who have viable products, but the market is perceived as too small or over-crowded for traditional publishers. Poetry and essays are among other genres not considered by most traditional publishers.
Niche markets can be quite profitable. Good books within a specialize niche are candidates for self-publishing.
Time
Let’s face it, the publishing industry is slow. It can take up to two years for a book to go from contract to bookstores. Most writers want their book published sooner rather than later. Especially for timely manuscripts, the potential market may be gone before publication. While the writing and editing process may not be faster, the time from finished manuscript to publication through self-publishing is.
Never Out-Of-Print
The self-published author decides when to remove their book from publication. It’s possible for a book to never go out of print. The book can be in publication as long as the writer desires.
Lower Prices to Consumer
Without the overhead of a large publishing company, it’s possible for a self-published book to be sold at a lower price. As long as quality is maintained, many buyers will buy the lower price product.
Author Earns More
Often in today’s publishing world, advances are low. Jane Friedman says 70% of authors don’t earn out their advance. Meaning after the initial check, there will be no more paychecks from the book. Once an author has paid for the expenses of self-publishing, all the profit is theirs.
Control
Once a traditional publishing contract is signed, the author has little say about the book. The publisher decided everything from title to the number of copies printed. Self-publishing allows the writer the opportunity to these decisions.
Locality
A book geared to a specific location also won’t attract the attention of the traditional houses. Some regional publishers will pick up these books. Often, though, it requires self-publishing to get it in the market. Here’s a list of regional publishers to consider https://spawn.org/resources/research-resources-regional-publishing-organizations/
Legacy
Some of our books aren’t really meant for wide-distribution. These may be family histories, an organization cookbook, memories or wisdom we want to leave for future generations. While some of them may be sold as fund-raisers, others only need to cover costs. Self-publishing is the only option for these books.
Traditional publication may be seen as giving legitimacy to our efforts. Self-publishing may be seen as way to get a message to the readers. The reasons for choosing one publishing option over another vary. Individual writers must look at their own situation to choose what is best for them and their book.
Susan K. Stewart is a teacher, writer, and speaker known for practical solutions to real-world situations. Her books include Harried Homeschooler’s Handbook: Finding Hope in the Havoc, Preschool: At What Cost?, Science in the Kitchen: Fearless Science at Home for All Ages, the award-winning Formatting e-Books for Writers. She brings her inspiring and encouraging messages to online and in-person conferences about families, writing, and editing. The Stewarts live in Central Texas with their three dogs, three cats, nine chickens, and a couple of donkeys. They have three children and six grandchildren. You can read more of Susan’s practical solutions at www.practicalinspirations.com.
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