When I dreamed about writing a children’s book, I didn’t realize publishing options existed. Taking my writing class, I learned you have 3 publishing options for your book. The most familiar one being traditional with two more choices including hybrid and self-publishing. I want to share with you how I came to choose self-publishing for my writing journey.
Traditional Publishing
We are all familiar with traditional publishing. You write, edit and submit your manuscript to a publishing company. You pray, cross your fingers, hope and dream that they will love your story so you can share it with the world. If you are fortunate enough to secure one of their limited spots, you rejoice or I would imagine you would. They have a team of editors, illustrators and book designers to turn your dream into a reality. What I didn’t realize is that you hand over the majority and possibly all of the decision making to the publisher. They own the rights to your book and you have to ask for permission to read it at a school as an author. I could read it in my own classroom, but not as a visiting author sharing my book with other kids. The perk of traditional publishing is they pay for everything. However, you basically pay it back with the sales of your book through reduced royalties.
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid Publishing is the middle ground existing between traditional and self-publishing. They provide editing, book design and publishing for a certain amount. You are responsible for finding, securing and paying for your own illustrator. They help with set-up of your book on Amazon, purchasing your IBN number and provide you with an author coach to keep you on track and to help answer your questions. The cost for these provided services adds up quickly, but reduces the added stress of finding your own publishing team. A definite perk is you do own the rights to your book so you are able to read your book wherever you choose. You can make social media posts and share it online. You also receive 100% of your royalties.
Self Publishing
Self Publishing is the option I have chosen so I can have complete creative control over decision making. I might be a control freak. As I wrote my book (with paper and pen in a special notebook), I imagined what my characters would look like and what each page would include. I poured love into every word and page. I can’t imagine someone taking that part of the process away from me. Of course, that also means I have to form my own publishing team. I took the safe choice for my editor by purchasing an editing package through the same company I took my writing class. I trust them and have enjoyed the quality of their training and staff. They will complete 3 edits total and we will send my manuscript back and forth for changes. My first edit is due back by Monday, April 21st (still waiting to hear back). They have 3 weeks to provide suggestions/guidance and I have 1 week to make changes. This first edit will have the biggest changes and suggestions. I am both excited and anxious to read their feedback.
What’s Next
My next step after the completion of the editing phase is selecting an illustrator. I have already spent countless hours searching through illustrator groups, pages and websites. I have found 2 illustrators that I really love their work and fun vibes. I will share more about this soon!
Always Rise & Shine, Chrissy