Self Publishing Companies
Should You Choose a Print On Demand Publisher?
These days, there are almost as many different self publishing companies to choose from as books in a library. Okay, I might be exaggerating a little, but really, which self publishing company do you choose? Out of all the companies competing for your attention, which is best for you?
Do you choose a print on demand book publisher like Createspace as I did or do you go the route of true self publishing and form your own company using Lightning Source as your printer? Those are my top two recommendations for self publishing authors.
If you don't have a budget and don't want to deal with all the details of being your own publisher, choose Createspace. However, if you're up for the challenge of self publishing on your own, check out Lightning Source.
It really depends on what your goal is for your book.
- Do you want to buy copies at the lowest price possible to resell later?
- Do you want to sell books online and at Amazon.com?
- Do you want the credibility that comes with being a "published" author?
- Do you want a hardcover, paperback or full color book?
These are just a few of the questions you need to ask yourself. To help you decide, I've researched some of the top companies for you listed in categories below. Ultimately,you need to choose what option is best for you. But, hopefully, by reading my reviews below you'll save a lot of time finding this information on your own.
Items to Consider When Choosing a Self Publishing Company:
- Reviews and reputation among other writers
- Upfront publishing fees
- Royalty payment structure and when you get paid
- Author's cost to purchase additional books for resell
- Contract terms (i.e. do you keep all rights to your cover and interior, copyright, etc.)
- Cost of any additional services (cover design, editing, marketing)
- ISBN number and barcode included
- Listing on Amazon.com and other online retailers
Overall Self Publishing Comparison
Mick Rooney's blog, "POD, Self-Publishing & Independent Publishing" has published a Self Publishing index of 59 companies. The company I used, Createspace is #1. The company I recommend for true self publishing, Lightning Source, is #2.
Print on Demand Self Publishing Companies
- Createspace - (owned by Amazon.com) My #1 Recommendation for softcover books for many reasons.
- Lulu Self Publishing - Well known and offers many different covers including hardcover and spiral bound. Also has ebook publishing for the iBookstore (iPad).
- BookLocker - Has a great reputation.
- 48 Hour Books - Quick turn around when buying books to resell. No webstore or submission to Amazon.com.
- Blurb
True Self Publishing
- Lightning Source - If you want to form your own self publishing company and go the route of true self publishing, then Lightning Source is the way
- to go. If you aren't very tech savvy or don't want to deal with all the details, then choose Createspace.
Other Self Publishing Companies
- Xlibris Publishing
- Outskirts Press
- Universal Publishers
Self publish your book with no upfront costs!
Please also share your experiences with self publishing! That's how we learn.
Give Your Review of Self Publishing Companies
What has your experience been? Good, bad, great...let us know so that we can learn from your mistakes and your successes!
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