Should you go with a traditional publisher or self publish your book? I recently signed with a literary agent, and an aspiring author asked why I decided to switch to traditional publishing with my new project. After self publishing my Sophie Washington series, I chose to explore the traditional publishing route with my latest manuscript for the chance to work with an editorial team and gain wider distribution for my work.
There are pros and cons for choosing to either self or traditionally publish your book. Check out these pros and cons and decide which path works best for you. Best wishes in your author journey!
Self Publishing
Pros:
Total control of the process
Quicker to market
Longer book shelf life
Higher royalty margins
Cons
Everything rests with the author (editing, formatting, etc.)
Harder to get books stocked in libraries and bookstores
Less time to write because of other responsibilities
Traditional Publishing
Pros
Wider distribution
Work with a team of experts
No overhead costs
Bookstore and library placement
Prestige
Cons
Time consuming
Lower royalty rates
Lots of rejection
Not guaranteed to be published
Tonya Duncan Ellis is author of the bestselling, award winning Sophie Washington children’s book series, geared toward readers ages 8-12 and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and the Authors Guild.
www.tonyaduncanellis.com
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