There’s been a lot of discussion about self-publishing on the Internet lately because of recent announcements by royalty publishers that they are going into the self-publishing business. That must mean that self-publishing is the wave of the future. Or, it could mean that the royalty publishers are just looking for another way to enhance the bottom line.

If you are considering self-publishing, ask yourself these questions:

• Is your work really ready for publication? Even if you answer “yes,” you should submit your work for a professional critique. Most of us cannot really be objective about our own work. You may need to hire a “book doctor” to get your book into “saleable” shape.
• Are you ready and willing to sell your own books? The answer to this one must be “yes,” because nobody will sell them for you. Having a listing on Amazon or other sites is not going to yield enough sales to recoup your investment.
• Do you have a speaking ministry or other platform to help you sell your books? If not, perhaps you’re better off building a platform before you invest in your book.

If you know you’re ready to self-publish, choose a reputable company that is recommended by other writers. Do not look for bargain basement deals. Look instead for value and dependability. See the resource material I’ve listed below as you expand your research on self-publishing. If you don’t read anything else in the list below, read Jim Watkins’ article.

Recent Online Buzz about Self-Publishing:

Chip MacGregor’s Blog (Agent)

Rachelle Gardner (Agent) has two posts, “A Rant and a Q4U” and “My Final Comments on Self-publishing.”

Jim Watkins Article

Writer Beware Blogs!

Web Sites for Self-Publishing Companies

Some of these companies offer print on demand services, too.

ACW Press

Intermedia Publishing

Thomas Nelson

Winepress (POD division Pleasant Word)

Note: I have not had personal dealings with any of these companies, so please do not take their listing on this blog as a personal recommendation.