Why we are self-publishing our first book
I’m sure many writer’s dream of making the big time – to be snapped up by a publishing company and sell millions of books overnight. However, the reality is a little bit more sobering – of the many thousands of books written a year, only a handful of books ever get published through traditional means.
Reading only the other day about popular authors who were initially rejected, I was astounded to find out that J.K. Rowling’s initial attempts to get ‘Harry Potter’ published ended in rejection 12 times. If a billion dollar book finds difficulty in getting published through traditional means, what hope for the rest of us? Right?
Though I have little to base this on, I have to conclude that publishing company’s base their decisions using subjective means (does the person in charge of new books like what they read) and the probability of returning their investment based on the risk they put into a new book.
For the new author, the cards are pretty much stacked against you. There are hundreds of competing books in the in-tray, no track record or marketing value behind your name and your first and only shot is banking on the one person to fully absorb themselves into your own very specific writing. That’s a very tall ask.
For most, self-publishing is probably the only method available in getting one’s book read by a greater audience. The risk is totally borne by yourself as well as the costs, not to mention the effort in getting your book to a wider audience.
We decided, to go with Authorhouse as the company to publish our book. They are a reputable company and have offered us a very professional service. We are mid-way through the publishing process, so have some way to go in evaluating the overall experience but I am pleased so far.
How will we measure success? I don’t know. Much of what lays before us is untried and unfamiliar. Success to me is having a book in print that someone else can read – if it is read and enjoyed by others no matter the number then I will be happy. We shall see…
