Self-publishing a Book

Publishing their own book ranks high on many people's list of things they want to accomplish in their lifetime. But many people are stymied by the process. Going the traditional route means finding a literary agent, getting their book published, and fighting to get shelf space at the local bookstore. There are numerous rewrites to suit the editor or publishing company's desires. Publishing with a "vanity press" allows you to have your books printed, but the chance of finding them on a store shelf are slim, and there is no promotion. Even worse, there is often a hefty minimum order, because this is how the publisher makes their money. Self-publishing is a new option that allows you to print only the number you need, and only when you want them. Because they are printed "on demand" the cost per book may be slightly higher, but not significantly. And the publishing companies make a small fee for every book that is sold. Furthermore, using the Internet, these books can be sold at online retailers, such as Borders or Amazon.com. Here are the two best companies that offer publishing on demand, otherwise known as "POD", with no upfront fee.

Lulu.com - Lulu is the top pick for self-publishing companies. They specialize in media, and their rates are very reasonable. For an additional fee, they offer the option of helping to place your book with online retailers. For a casewrap hardbound book, which is a typical hardcover book with no dust jacket, their rate is $17 for a 8 1/2" X 11" book. In addition, there is a two cent fee for every printed page. Obviously, this could be quite pricy for a thick book, but there are other options available that make it quite affordable. You can choose different sizes, bindings, or even color printing within the book. Although pricy, it is much less than going through a vanity press, and much easier than going the traditional route.

Cafepress.com - Cafepress is well known for allowing anyone to make and sell their own tshirts or bumper stickers, but one of their lesser known features allows you to print and promote your own book through their site. Cafepress gets a lower rating because they are most known for their tshirts and may carry a negative connotation with someone trying to break into the literary world. Also, their cost is a bit higher. For a standard paperback size with perfect binding, it will cost $7 plus three cents per page. Perfect binding refers to the binding process that most books use. Its spine and cover are flat, and there is no point in the book where you can see obvious stitching. In addition, they do not appear to offer hardcover books, nor do they offer color printing in the books. This may be acceptable or not, depending on your particular circumstances. Selling your book through an online retailer may be more difficult through Cafepress.

I have assisted several friends and companies with finding options for self-publishing. These two companies receive my recommendation because they tell you their fees upfront, and you are able to compare your options. If you have a manuscript sitting on your shelf that you've been trying to publish, these are the easiest options. Futhermore, when the time comes that you decide to seek a literary agent, you can provide them with a copy of your book as a sample of your writing.