Publishing Self vs. Traditional

Publishing Self Vs. Traditional

Let’s look at the differences between Traditional vs. Self-publishing.  Either road can be stressful and frustrating if you don’t have your ducks in a row.

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Self-Publish

My first Children’s book was self-published.  I weighed my options; traditional vs. self-publishing; which way is the best way for me.  My utter lack of understanding was astonishing, and, indeed, being naive all factored into my poor decisions and choices made.  In any event, being fascinated and intrigued by the intricate components of publishing; pushing all doubts aside, the focus became finishing the book.  Upon completion, a copy of my book arrived in the mail.  Laying my hands on my book was undeniably one of the high points of my life-a surreal mix of fact and fantasy.

Who Is At Fault

I’d like to say the self-publishing company took advantage of a first time author.  In any event, it didn’t fall entirely on their shoulders.  I bare apart of the blame. Did they pounce on my naivety?  Yes, they did.  I am a firm believer in honesty and fairness.  Disillusioned and unsure of my next steps, reality set in, pursuing a lost cause will bring no alternate conclusion.

It was my first and last experience with a self-publishing company.  I’d like to say all self-publishing companies are not all wicked; unfortunately my experience left me with a bad taste in my mouth.  Anyone with a similar experience, send me an e-mail.  I’d love to hear about it.

Traditional Publishing

My journey through traditional publishing was brief.  The books I’ve written are personal books for my grandchildren to enjoy.  Therefore, I didn’t go with a traditional publisher. But, I did do my research.  Traditional publishing can be a difficult road to go down.  All first-time authors , wanting  to see profit from a book, this would be the avenue to pursue; in any case it may take a while to see any results.  But with persistence and perseverance, it is an attainable goal.  For additional information about traditional publishing click on this link.

Tips And Supportive Advice

• Belief in yourself is the single most critical element to success.
• if you do self-publish, be careful and read the fine print in the contract.  After reading, if something feels off, do not proceed. Trust your instinct; your gut is often right.
• If you go the route of traditional publishing, patience is a necessity. There are steps you need to take and decisions you need to make.  For further instructions google how to publish a book, or follow the above link to learn more.
  
• Whether you self-publish, or do traditional publishing, once again,  have your ducks in a row.  Be prepared; being naive will cost you in the end.

Be Prepared

Finally, the subject of books, reading, writing, and publishing is a subject I could spend hours discussing.  It is such an integral part of my life.  I spend hours getting lost inside a book.  My presence at the library in the city I live in is constant.   It is one of my favorite go-to places.  Imagining a world without books is beyond my realm of thinking.  Traditional vs. self-publishing, is it a hard choice to make?  I know which one I’d choose.  

Lastly, set goals,  stay motivated, do research, and always come prepared.  

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