should i self publish or not? and printing costs?

Deals_2

anyone have any idea on this front? i am planning to write one and if it works a series linked to celebrity stuff. shoudl i find a publisher or self publisher and anyone know the cost of self publishing and best way for it. also selling on amazon seems pretty easy but what about book shops - the works, waterstones etc....any tips appreciated.

linzibean

Self publishing... you could go one of two ways. One, you find a publishing agent or print farmer (I know of a couple, but not sure if it would be breaking rules to link to them? I'm not related t them in any way). They will charge you slightly more than going direct to a printer, but will also usually help publicise your book.

Two, you could go direct to a printers, try local ones first. They will just charge you print costs, and you will have do all publicity etc yourself.

Book shops is a tricky one. The big ones like Waterstones have central ordering, and it is notirously difficult to get a deal with them unless you're one of the big boys. However, it always pays to try and sell to your local store at least, ofer to do a signing etc. Once you have managed to get your books into one store, it is slightly easier to get it into others. Another option for selling is to advertise in one of the self publishing magazines (like "The Self Publishing Magazine", printed by Troubador I think) that promotes individuals and their books. Plus - support your local and other independant bookshop - they will often give you a better deal than chains but of course will buy less.

As for costs involved - couldn't say without knowing things like length of book, size of book, paper, colour / mon etc etc..... and of course print run. Most printers will now print self published titles digitally as "print on demand" which is cheaper than printing traditionally, but still pretty costly, making books as much as £10 each or more if you go hardback etc. You will really need to shop around, and make sure to be very specific when asking for quotes, it will save hassle later. If you want the names of any companies that might help, feel free to PM me, I used to work in printing and may be able to help

U've_been_framed

Check out lulu.com. This is not a recommendation but you might find it useful.

I got married 17 Sept and we'll be celebrating our silver wedding next year. Good luck!

Poppycat

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