What is independent publishing?

You are a budding author on the brink of finalizing your manuscript. Once you have completed it, the next step is to shop your work around to literary agents and publishing houses. However, this process can be grueling, competitive, and may end in several rejections. Alternatively, if you aren’t inclined toward the traditional publishing route, you have another option—independent publishing. Learn what independent publishing is, how it differs from traditional publishing, and its benefits for you as an author.

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How to publish a book independently

To independently publish your book, you have several options. You can partner with an independent publishing company or a small press, or you can create your own publishing company or small press. Independent publishers establish relationships with the necessary parties required to publish your book, such as editors, printers, distributors, and designers. They guide you through each stage of the process while still allowing you to retain the rights to your book. Working with a smaller publication typically results in a quicker timeline, expediting the publication and distribution of your book.

How does independent publishing differ from traditional publishing and self-publishing?

Given the exclusivity and rigor of traditional publishing, independent publishing may be a viable path to get your book published. Before deciding to pursue independent publishing, it’s important to understand the differences between your available options. The other publishing options include:

Traditional publishing

Traditional publishing involves submitting your book to a literary agent affiliated with one of the major publishing houses. Some of these renowned publishing houses include Penguin Random House, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Hachette Group, and MacMillan Publishers. This is the most competitive route for publishing, as these publishing houses receive countless proposals every year. However, it’s typically the most financially rewarding option. Traditional publishing houses offer advances, royalties for your work, and, most importantly, the opportunity to reach a larger audience.

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Self-publishing

If you choose to self-publish a book, you take on the roles of author, distributor, publisher, and marketer all by yourself. However, you lose the distribution network, financial backing, and additional assistance that traditional publishing offers. This is a suitable option if your goal is to make your work available, but it doesn’t provide significant support.

What is the benefit of publishing independently?

Independent publishing strikes a balance between self-publishing and traditional publishing. You can bypass the competitive hurdles of traditional publishers without sacrificing support during the publishing process. Independent publishers understand the publishing world and provide a team of professionals to assist with your work. You can collaborate with editors, designers, and other experts while retaining creative control over your writing. It enables you to enter the publishing arena, get your book on shelves, and do so on your own terms.

Independent publishing is a worthwhile publishing route, whether you’re a nascent or seasoned author. You receive the support of professionals, facilitating the journey of getting your book into your audience’s hands without giving up creative control. For more help with publishing and editing your writing, learn more writing tips.