There’s so much to consider when self-publishing that it can seem overwhelming.
Do you need an editor, should you design your cover, why do ISBNs matter, how do you covert your document into ebook and paperback? Then, how can you let people know it exists?
There are, of course, books on the subject as well as thousands of web pages filled with advice. It’s an area which is changing so fast. Who would have thought this time last year that so many people would be reading on electronic devices?
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Self-publishing requires a skill set all of its own. But I’m glad I did it. I love hearing from people who’ve read my novel Park Life and am proud of what I achieved. I give readings at author events and often get questions from people who’d like to self-publish their own books.
Birmingham book-lovers are fortunate to have a number of literary events through the year with .
There’s plenty for self-publishers at Pow-Wow LitFest. Local author David Wake will run a self-publishing workshop on Saturday September 14, cover everything you need to know before you self-publish.
The main festival on Sunday September 15 includes a panel discussion featuring David, Mark Edwards (best-selling self-published crime writer) and Fiona Joseph (founder of Foxwell Press and author of short stories and non-fiction).
My own taste in books is varied, anything from literary fiction to thrillers. I read thirty to forty a year... I would guess that’s more than average; I am a ‘bookish’ type.
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A number of factors influence my choice of book. I am drawn to cover design, blurb, recommendations from friends or reviews, knowing the author’s work or being captivated by the main character on the first page.
But on the list of what tempts me, the publisher’s name is missing.
I know a little about the publishing industry. I know publishers invest in editors, designers, marketing and distribution to get books into readers’ hands. I know some company’s names carry prestige, others are known for finding the best authors in a specific genre.
I also know that of all the authors who write books, only a tiny minority are published by those companies.
I’m not currently one of them. But you can read my book because publishing has changed and self-publishing is not only easy, it’s acceptable.
A few years ago, writers who put out their own books were accused of vanity publishing by book snobs. Now we’re accepted as indies, similar to bands producing their own albums, or artists selling paintings from craft market stalls.
I’m still learning to be a good writer. I attend a writers’ group and benefit from feedback on my work. I read around the subject and go to writing events and workshops to hear from others.
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Writing fiction is not easy; I don’t agree with the adage that ‘everyone has a book in them’. Novels are complicated.
What’s no longer complicated is publishing.
- Pow-Wow Litfest takes place in Moseley this weekend. The festival welcomes all writers, whether you’re considering self-publishing or not. Tickets are available at