How To Self Publish as an Indie Author
But now what?
So, you’ve finally finished writing your book, awesome! But now what?
If you’re anything like me, the fear and uncertainty of what to do next will cause you to develop chronic procrastination and self-doubt. I spent countless hours searching the internet with dry, tired eyes, lost in the world of literature and publication as a new author. There were so many things to consider! Finding an agent, searching for editors, and contacting publishers—it was very overwhelming. And oh my goodness! The cost of these options was nothing if not disheartening. Even so, a part of me didn’t want anyone else touching my work. I’ve heard horror stories of authors who have submitted their work to editors only to have their story torn apart and changed completely. How could I avoid losing the authenticity of my story while still finding a way to publish my book to a large audience? These thoughts ate away at me until I almost gave up the hope of doing anything with my work.
Have you struggled with the murkiness that is online publishing? How will you get your precious book out there? Should you invest your time and money into agents and editors for a chance at making it big with popular publishers like HarperCollins or Penguin? Absolutely! However, if money is an issue (as it was for me) then I have a different approach that might serve you well. Actually, it will serve you well. Because it’s 100% free, and very easy to use. Sounds too good to be true? Stay with me. Let me introduce you to CreateSpace, a magical place that made my dream come true. I spent years writing and rewriting my book. And then another year editing it. I wanted it to be perfect, I wanted to hold it in my hands and smell that new book smell and know that it was completely mine. Truth be told, when my author friend introduced me to CreateSpace, I was a little skeptical. I mean, what happened if I handed over my baby, only to have it stolen right before my eyes? But he assured me over and over until finally, I caved. Timidly, I began the process of filling out my information, collecting my ISBN (which made me feel much better), uploading my manuscript, and even editing my own cover art (yes, that was free as well). If you have hired someone to design a cover for your book, you can upload it onto CreateSpace cover design and personalise the blurb on the back. CreateSpace will even help you edit your punctuation and grammar. As soon as everything was said and done, I had ordered 5 free copies of my book and had them sent straight to my post office. I’m not going to lie, I definitely cried when I held my book in my hands for the first time.
So, what exactly does CreateSpace offer?
- Free ISBN
- Free cover art
- Step by step guide to uploading and editing your manuscript
- Distribution
- Set your own pricing
- Guide to publish on Kindle
- Publishes right to Amazon and CreateSpace
- Receive royalties
- As well as marketing, illustration and editorial opportunities (charges may apply)
I’m very fond of this website because it quite literally made my dreams come true. The staff are there to help you with any questions you may have, and they will answer promptly in a friendly manner. Many times I needed their help—and if they didn’t tire from my persistent nagging, I’m sure you will be fine! If you’re interested in giving it a try, click here to get started!
Happy publishing!
About the Creator
Aili Barker
Author of Kingdom Come & Endless Fragment Of Time
Poet, Wanderer, Photographer
Keep reading
More stories from Aili Barker and writers in Journal and other communities.
H e r o
It’s amazing how artistic we get when our hearts are wounded. Like our souls override reason and speak to us with such intensity it dominates our very being. Fate simpers at me and I huddle alone with the murmurings of dissent within, clawing at my walls and I desperately try to hold myself up because the only hero around is me. But the darkness of the future and onslaught of rain is deceiving enough to throw me back two hundred steps in the past. This altercation of voices in my head drowns out reason, and I think of you always. My distress is less than evident, although I radiate apprehension. You were so commandeering with your easy smile and feathery touch. Your endearing nervousness was simply a ploy to capture me, just to throw me away like the others. Though undefined, the drive towards you was all consuming, and due to the questionable strategizing by my inane self, I fooled myself into believing I had stolen your unattainable heart. The inexorable truth is what broke my chest; lungs collapsed into themselves when I woke up to nothing but bare walls and cold sheets. Inside my bedroom the resonance of your laughter is endless and it kills me. You are elsewhere and I am here. I struggle to determine the difference between solitude and loneliness, but I will emerge from adversity, scathed yet victorious.
By Aili Barker7 years ago in Poets
Was I a Model in Japan?
During my time in Nagoya I worked and lived at the strangely famous hostel and café Nagonoya. With its chequered floors and florescent lighting it felt quite dated, but I think that was supposed to be part of the charm. The dorms were always fully booked on weekends with domestic tourists and there was always a buzz in the downstairs café. Camera crews were constantly in and out of the place interviewing the Japanese staff members who worked the café. I think it had something to do with the egg sandwiches. At least that was what was on most of the merchandise, except for that one dishcloth with the owner’s face on it. Was I being employed by a local celebrity?
By Susanna Kiernan6 days ago in Wander
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.