A couple of years ago I co-authored a book published by a major publisher. My co-author and I were faced with strenuously short deadlines, were restricted in how we could market the book and received a mere pittance in royalties, despite a reasonable amount of sales for a niche-topic book. I swore I would never let that happen again. The next time I authored a book, it would be on my own terms and would probably be self-published.

Now, self-publishing seems to be hitting the mainstream. Borders has teamed up with self-publishing company Lulu to offer anyone who is willing to pay a little money the opportunity to see their name in print. Borders will even help design the book, provide copywriting and editing services, and will promote the book via its distribution channels. The cost is a few hundred dollars even for the premium package.

So, budding authors, what are you waiting for? Some big city publisher to come knocking at your door? Even if they do, let me tell ya, not all that glitters is gold. Self-publishing is an attractive option, one that I’m likely to take hold of the next time around.

Filed under: Marketing Resources, Personal Opinions, Technology