How to Share Stories and Spread Ideas

Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing

New writers who want to publish their first novel, fictional book, or academic book have two publishing options. One is to sign a book contract with a traditional publisher. Such an agreement, usually carried out by a copyright agent, gives the publisher special rights to print and distribute the book. The author collaborates with the publishing house's editor to generate a set number of books. Whether the book finally sees the light or not depends on the decision of the publishing company.

Many debut writers, on the other hand, prove their abilities in the field of self-publishing. Self-published writers eschew the publishing house and publish their novels around the world on their own. They do this by making the book available for printing if needed, such as an eBook, as an audio book, or by printing and selling copies of the book themselves.

Methods for Self-Publishing a Novel

Indie authors now have more options than ever to get their work in front of readers:

How the Traditional Publishing Process Works

The usual publishing houses produce a large number of copies that are read widely. Every book or novel you see on the best-selling list was published by a traditional publisher.

As a debut writer, you don't have to be a best-selling novelist like Dan Brown or David Baldacci to get a publishing party. Authors who sell a modest quantity of books can still work with prominent publishers and sell their hard copies and ebooks.

The traditional publishing process takes time and patience to get the title published and includes processes like proofreading, editing, designing, printing, marketing, and distribution.

Steps for Getting Your Book Published

Well-known authors will often be offered a multimillion-dollar publishing contract, providing them with a home for work that is not yet available. Unsolicited manuscripts can also find their way to the publishers, as long as the authors follow the appropriate steps. Here are some tips to get your book published in traditional ways. Note that these are not typing tips; they particularly affect the publishing process.