What is the best self-publishing company? Keep reading to find out which self-publishing company I think is the best and why. Traditional or self-publishing? In this post, I am going to share some examples of both. Have you ever wondered what a traditional publisher can do for you? How is an author considered for a writing contract? What about a support system? I’m happy to say there is one for traditional and self-publishing.
Traditional Publishing
To be considered for a writing contract with a traditional book publisher, you must take certain steps. For example, Penguin Random House has an article on their page titled, “How Can I Get Published?” In this article, they list what an author needs to do for their manuscript to be considered by a traditional book publishing company.
- A completed manuscript or proposal.
- Find a literary agent
- Collaborate with your literary agent to prepare your work for submission to editors.
Penguin Random House expects you to have a literary agent. Simon & Schuster accepts unsolicited manuscripts, and no need for a literary agent. However, it’s difficult to get a writing contract with them. People know HarperCollins for its diverse range of genres and world-class authors. However, HarperCollins does not accept unsolicited submissions, whether it be a manuscript, a proposal, or a query letter. They also state clearly that they won’t return any of the aforementioned.
Now that you have a brief insight into two traditional book publishing companies out there, what should you expect from one if you receive a writing contract? When you sign on with a traditional book publishing company, they will cover editing, design, printing, and distribution. However, the royalty payout may not be what you would expect, and you will not have much control over the creative edge of your book. If you already have a large following, then traditional publishing could be a good fit for you.
Self-Publishing
Are there good publishing companies for first-time authors? Yes, if you are a first-time author, self-publishing is the way to go. You don’t need permission to write your story. All you need is a polished manuscript and a platform on which to sell your book. One of my favorites is Amazon KDP. I know I am sounding biased, being that it is the only platform I am using. Amazon KDP is a worthwhile choice.
KDP is one of the world’s biggest self-publishing platforms. KDP offers full control over royalties and pricing. No book contracts or literary agents required. KDP has an easy-to-use platform. The cons of this platform are heavy competition and on your own marketing. Amazon KDP is the best self-publishing company. Why do I think this? Because of its ease of use, the royalty payout, and control over pricing. Amazon KDP is quite an impressive platform for self-publishers.
As far as Lulu goes, I used it in the past for a retired book. I didn’t find Lulu overly impressive. Sure, you can upload your manuscript, design your cover, or hire someone to design it. But I found the process daunting, difficult to use. Setting up an account with Lulu is free. Lulu gives you a website, and you have control over the price of your book.
There’s one more self-publishing platform I want to mention: IngramSpark. IngramSpark provides print-on-demand services and global distribution for indie authors. Within self-publishing circles, it seems to be a favorite. I considered it at one time, but didn’t feel it was for me. I have heard that their upfront costs are not very clear. Be sure to read the contract carefully and the fine print on costs before signing up with them.
Support System
Are there support systems out there for authors? Yes, there is a support system for both traditional publishers and self-publishers.
If you are considering the traditional book publishing route and want help with writing your story, a community of like-minded writers, help in writing proposal letters, or connecting with literary agents, then Compel Pro Writers Training is the support system for you. However, if you are considering self-publishing, then Christian Book Academy is the way to go. Christian Book Academy is a training and mentorship community that helps authors through the writing, publishing, and marketing process. Whichever path you choose, there is support for you. The beauty of both support systems is that God is at the center! I highly recommend them both, depending on the path you take in publishing your book. They are of great value to writers.
There’s no right or wrong way to publish, traditional publishing or self-publishing. What is important is following God’s lead on which path best suits you. I know authors who have books in both. Write your story. You are the only one who can!
About the Author
Author Bio: EO Writes has written and published three books. Getting Unstuck: A Guide to Self-Publishing is her most recently published book. She hopes to release her podcast “Tea Time with Lizzy” this Fall. You can reach her at https://www.eowrites.com. She has been married for 27 years. When she is not writing, she and her husband enjoy traveling throughout the United States on their Harley.
“Never judge a book by its cover. What you find inside the pages might surprise you.”
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