Is this going to be the year you finally publish your book? Whether you're still deep in draft mode or putting the final touches on your manuscript and getting ready to put it out there, it's a good idea to start thinking about what your options are for publishing and the different paths that you can take.
The book publishing industry has changed a ton in the past decade and even a lot just in the past few years. It's at once an industry that is so rooted in tradition and old-fashioned in many ways, but it's also at the forefront of innovation and change, which is really exciting.
In this blog post, I'm going to give you a complete overview of your different options for publishing, the different avenues that you can take, and what they look like. My goal as a professional book editor and as a YouTuber is to bring you as much information as I can so that you can make the most informed decisions possible and ultimately reach your goals for your book.
So a quick disclaimer before I dive in: I truly do not believe that one publishing path is necessarily better than another. I firmly believe it really comes down to your individual goals and priorities. If you've watched some of my videos, you likely know I did used to work at Random House and a literary agency, so I am more familiar with the traditional publishing path, but I do not by any means think that that is a superior path or even the right path for every person.
So in this blog post, I'm not going to get into all of the pros and cons of each individual publishing option, just because that would make this blog post too long. But I am going to give you an overview of what each of these publishing paths entails, who it involves, how books are sold, and how you as the author would get paid.
If you are at all interested in book writing or publishing, I recommend subscribing to my channel if you haven't already. Every single week I either talk about the publishing industry or give specific writing tips, especially if you are working on a book.
Traditional Publishing
Traditional publishing involves working closely with an established publishing house throughout the entire production process of your book. From editing and production to marketing and distribution, the publishing house takes care of the logistics, allowing you to focus on writing and editing. However, to pursue this path, you need to secure a literary agent's representation and then obtain a book deal with a publishing house, typically one of the big five: Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, Hachette, or HarperCollins.
Who does it involve?
- You (the author)
- Literary agent
- Editor at the publishing house
- Publishing house teams (marketing, sales, cover design)
How are books sold?
- The publishing house handles distribution to major retailers, both physical and online.
How do you get paid?
- No upfront costs for the author.
- Literary agent takes a 15% commission.
- Authors receive an advance (a lump sum) and potentially earn royalties based on book sales after the advance is recouped.
Self-Publishing
Self-publishing empowers authors to manage the entire publishing process, including editing, marketing, distribution, and cover design. While it puts you in control, you'll also need to take on responsibilities or hire professionals for various tasks.
Who does it involve?
- Primarily you (the author)
- Potentially, hired professionals (editors, cover designers, marketers)
How are books sold?
- Depends on the platform used.
- Some platforms distribute only electronic versions, while others offer print-on-demand services.
How do you get paid?
- You control book costs and take home earnings after deducting production expenses.
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid publishing combines elements of traditional and self-publishing. Authors receive the support of a publishing house, but unlike traditional publishing, they pay upfront for these services. The author's financial investment often results in a higher percentage of royalties.
Who does it involve?
- You (the author)
- Publishing house team
How are books sold?
- A combination of efforts from the author and the publishing house.
How do you get paid?
- Authors pay upfront for services but may receive a higher percentage of royalties compared to traditional publishing.
Navigating the Hybrid Landscape
When considering hybrid publishing, thorough research is essential. Scams are prevalent, particularly through vanity presses that exploit authors by promising success in exchange for high upfront costs. Authors should ask questions, seek examples of successful publications, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Your Journey, Your Decision
In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to publishing. Each path has its merits, and the right choice depends on your individual goals and priorities. Whether you're drawn to the traditional, independent, or hybrid route, understanding the intricacies of each can empower you to make the best decision for your book. If you got small budget to spend on publishing your book then hybrid publishing could be a best option for you. It is important to make sure you don't spend too much and get a clear view of all the work and their cost before signing up. Bookllo Publishing is one of our hybrid publishing that offer book publishing and marketing services at affordable cost.
Remember, the publishing landscape is dynamic, and embracing change can open doors to exciting opportunities. Whichever path you choose, may it lead you to the fulfillment of your writing aspirations. Happy publishing!
