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Wednesday, March 10, 2010

What To Do About Publishing?

As noted so ably by my recent guest blogger, Julia Lindsey, there are many options to consider nowadays, when it comes to deciding how to publish what you write.

If you're an author, it's always tempting to go with a conventional publisher, especially if you desire hand-holding and instant prestige. But wait! Unless you're the Next Big Thing (or a recycled Last Big Thing), don't count on either one.

Unless you can sell 10-25,000 out of the gate, you may not even be able to make back your advance. And that's after you've spent it!

Self-publishing may be the answer, but that's only if you're a do-it-yourselfer, like me. There are many pitfalls to be overstepped there as well, but at least you have a lot more control over the process and the product.

The two biggest obstacles to overcome with self-publishing are decisions about printing and distribution. And if you don't employ someone to help you market, then you have to spend the time to learn all there is to learn (or all you can) about marketing, and believe me, there is a lot to learn. It helps to have a buddy who can do some info-sharing with you, especially if your budget is tight (and whose is not?)

Just in case you didn't have enough to worry about.

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