by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As a self-published author, you’ve poured your heart and soul into your manuscript. Now, you’re eager to share it with the world. But, you’re not sure how to make it a bestseller.” What if I told you that it’s not just about luck or being in the right place at the right time? The truth is, self-publishing a bestseller requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to learn from others.
Understanding Your Audience and Market
Before you start writing, it’s essential to understand who your target audience is. Who are they? What problems do they face? What are their pain points? Once you have a clear understanding of your audience, you can tailor your content to resonate with them.
For instance, if you’re writing a poetry chapbook, understand what kind of poetry resonates with them. What themes do they connect with? What kind of language do they use? Tips to Self-Publish Your Poetry Chapbook can provide valuable insights on how to understand your audience better.
Conducting market research can help you identify gaps in the market. What topics are currently trending? What kind of books are readers craving for? What kind of authors are readers looking up to?
In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to conduct market research. You can use online tools like Amazon Kindle Spy, KDP Rocket, or Google Trends to identify what’s currently trending.
Writing a Manuscript Worth Reading
that you have a clear understanding of your audience, it’s time to craft a manuscript worth reading. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Hook your readers from the very first sentence. Make sure your opening sentence is attention-grabbing and raises questions that keep readers curious.
- Show, don’t tell. Instead of telling your readers what’s happening, show them through action, dialogue, and sensory details.
- Write in a conversational tone. Use everyday language that resonates with your readers.
- Edit and revise. Writing is rewriting. Make sure you’ve revised your manuscript multiple times before publishing.
Remember, writing a manuscript worth reading takes time, effort, and patience. Don’t rush the process. Take your time to craft a manuscript that you’re proud of.
“The best way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney
Designing a Professional-Looking Book
Once you have a manuscript worth reading, it’s time to design a professional-looking book. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Use book design software like Vellum or Canva to design your book. Choose a font that’s easy to read and suitable for your genre.
Choose a cover design that resonates with your audience. Use high-quality images or illustrations that grab attention. You can use online tools like 99designs or hire a professional designer.
In terms of paper quality, choose a paper weight that’s suitable for your genre. For instance, if you’re writing a poetry chapbook, you might want to choose a heavier paper weight that adds to the tactile experience of reading.
Finally, choose a binding method that’s suitable for your book. You can choose between perfect binding, saddle-stitching, or Coptic binding, depending on your book’s size and content.
Remember, designing a professional-looking book requires attention to detail. Take your time to get it right. DIY Book Production on a Shoestring Budget can provide valuable insights on how to design a professional-looking book on a budget.
In conclusion, self-publishing a bestseller requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to learn from others. By understanding your audience, writing a manuscript worth reading, and designing a professional-looking book, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, success is a journey, not a destination. Keep learning, keep writing, and most importantly, keep pushing forward.
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As writers, we often find ourselves stuck in the trenches of our own creativity, unsure of how to break through to the next level. One of the most powerful ways to overcome this is to learn from those who have already achieved success. In this post, we’ll delve into the advice of bestselling authors, exploring their strategies for crafting compelling stories, and what it takes to make it in the publishing industry.
Write with Intention
Bestselling author Neil Gaiman emphasizes the importance of writing with intention. “The main rule of writing is that you must “care about what you’re writing,” he says. This means being passionate about your project, and being willing to put in the hard work required to bring it to life.
So, how can you cultivate this sense of intention in your own writing? Here are a few strategies to try:
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Set clear goals for your project. What do you want to achieve with your writing? What message do you want to convey?
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Develop a pre-writing routine that gets you in the right mindset. This might include activities like freewriting, or reading inspiring work by other authors.
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Create a schedule and stick to it. This will help you stay focused, even when the going gets tough.
By writing with intention, you’ll be able to craft a story that truly resonates with your readers.
The Power of Revision
Revision is a crucial part of the writing process, yet many of us struggle to make the necessary changes to our work. Bestselling author, Rainbow Rowell, emphasizes the importance of revision, saying, “The only way I can get a book to work is to revise it a lot.” But how can you make the revision process less painful?
One strategy is to approach revision with a clear head. Take a break from your manuscript, and then revisit it with fresh eyes. This will help you see your work from a new perspective, and identify areas that need improvement.
Another approach is to focus on one aspect of your manuscript at a time. For example, you might focus on character dialogue, or plot development. By breaking down the revision process into smaller tasks, you’ll be able to tackle them one by one, without feeling overwhelmed.
Finally, don’t be afraid to cut scenes or characters that aren’t working. This can be a painful process, but it’s often necessary to make your story the best it can be. As Rainbow Rowell says, “I have to be willing to kill my darlings, and my characters, and my plot twists.”
From Manuscript to Book
Once you’ve completed your manuscript, the next step is to turn it into a professional-looking book. This can be a daunting task, especially for self-publishers. However, with the right tools and resources, you can create a high-quality book that rivals those produced by traditional publishers.
One tool that can help you achieve this is Vellum. This software allows you to easily format your book for both digital and print-on-demand, ensuring that your book looks great on a variety of devices. You can also use design tools like Canva to create a professional-looking cover, and learn about DIY Book Production on a Shoestring Budget to make the process more affordable.
For those who are new to self-publishing, it’s worth checking out resources like Self-Publishing Blueprint, which provides a step-by-step guide to the self-publishing process. Alternatively, you can start with DIY Book Production for Beginners, which covers the basics of creating a professional-looking book.
“The road to hell is paved with adverbs.” – Stephen King
This quote from Stephen King highlights the importance of concise writing. By cutting out unnecessary words, and focusing on strong, active verbs, you can create a more engaging narrative that draws readers in.
In conclusion, writing a successful book takes time, effort, and dedication. By following the advice of bestselling authors, and using the right tools and resources, you can create a high-quality book that resonates with readers. Remember to write with intention, revise with care, and focus on creating a professional-looking book that does your story justice. With persistence and hard work, you can achieve your writing goals, and become a bestselling author in your own right.
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As a poet, you’ve poured your heart and soul into crafting a chapbook that showcases your unique voice and style. Now, you’re ready to share it with the world – but where do you start? Self-publishing can seem daunting, especially when it comes to poetry. But fear not, dear poet! With these tips, you’ll be holding your very own chapbook in no time.
Getting Started: Preparation is Key
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of self-publishing, take some time to prepare your manuscript and get everything in place. Here are a few essential steps to check off your list:
- Edit and revise your manuscript: Make sure your poems are error-free and polished. Consider getting feedback from fellow writers or hiring a professional editor.
- Choose a title and subtitle: Your title should be attention-grabbing, while your subtitle provides context and hints at the themes explored in your chapbook>
- Write a compelling blurb: Craft a concise and enticing summary of your chapbook that’ll make readers want to dive in.
- Design your book’s interior: Decide on font styles, sizes, and formatting. You can find inspiration online or invest in a professional design.
Designing Your Chapbook: Aesthetic Matters
Your chapbook’s design is crucial in conveying the tone and atmosphere of your poetry. Here are some tips to get you started:
For a professional finish, use design software like Canva or Adobe InDesign. If you’re on a tight budget, consider enlisting the help of a friend with design skills or taking an online course to learn the basics.
When it comes to paper type, choose a high-quality, acid-free option that will ensure your chapbook lasts for years to come. Consider a paper weight of around 60-80 gsm for a premium feel.
Don’t forget to leave enough whitespace – you want your poems to breathe and shine!
For a polished finish, explore different binding methods, such as perfect binding, stapling, or even hand-stitching for a unique, handmade touch.
Self-Publishing Platforms and Distribution
Now that your chapbook is designed and ready, it’s time to decide on a self-publishing platform and distribution strategy. Here are a few popular options to consider:
For print-on-demand services like CreateSpace or IngramSpark, which allow you to order copies as needed, reducing upfront costs and storage concerns.
If you’re on a shoestring budget, check out our guide on DIY Book Production on a Shoestring Budget, which covers affordable printing and distribution options.
For digital distribution, consider platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Draft2Digital, which help you reach a global audience.
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
This quote holds especially true for self-publishing. Remember, your passion and dedication will shine through in every step of the process – from manuscript preparation to distribution.
Final Tips and Resources
As you embark on your self-publishing adventure, keep these final tips and resources in mind:
- Be patient and flexible: Self-publishing requires time, effort, and adaptability.
- Invest in a quality cover design: Your cover is the first thing potential readers will see, so make it count!
- Build an author platform: Establish an online presence through social media, blogging, or email newsletters to connect with readers and promote your work.
- Keep learning: Continuously educate yourself on self-publishing best practices, and new tools and software through resources like our Self-Publishing Blueprint.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to successfully self-publishing your poetry chapbook. Remember to stay focused, persistent, and true to your artistic vision. Happy publishing, dear poet!
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As a writer, you’ve poured your heart and soul into crafting a manuscript that’s dear to you. Now, you’re ready to take the next step – publishing your work. But, you’re on a shoestring budget, and the thought of investing in expensive publishing services seems daunting. Fear not, my friend! With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can produce a high-quality book that will make you proud, without breaking the bank.
Designing Your Book Interior
When it comes to designing the interior of your book, you have two options – hire a professional or do it yourself. If you’re short on cash, the latter might seem like the only viable option. But, don’t worry, with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can create a professionally-looking interior.
One of the best tools for designing your book interior is Vellum. This software is specifically designed for book design and formatting, making it easy to create a beautiful interior. Plus, it’s user-friendly, even if you have no design experience. With Vellum, you can choose from a variety of pre-made templates, customize the layout, and add your text and images.
If you’re not comfortable using Vellum, you can also use Canva. Canva is a popular design platform that offers a wide range of templates, fonts, and design elements. It’s also very user-friendly, and you can create a beautiful book interior with ease.
Choosing the Right Paper and Binding
When it comes to printing your book, the option of paper and binding can be overwhelming. But, don’t worry, with a little research, you can make the right choice for your book.
For paper, you’ll want to choose a weight that’s not too thin or too thick. A good starting point is a 60-70 gsm paper. This weight is sturdy enough to hold up to reading, but not so thick that it makes the book too bulky. You can also consider using recycled paper, which is a great eco-friendly option.
For binding, you have several options. You can choose from saddle-stitching, perfect binding, or coil binding. Saddle-stitching is great for smaller books, while perfect binding is better for larger books. Coil binding is a good option if you want to add a bit of flair to your book.
Here are some tips for choosing the right paper and binding:
- Consider the size of your book – a larger book may require a more durable binding.
- Think about the content of your book – if it’s heavily illustrated, you may want to choose a heavier paper weight.
- Research different printing companies to find the best option for your budget.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for samples – this will give you a better idea of the paper and binding quality.
Assembling Your Book
Now that you’ve designed your book interior, chosen your paper and binding, it’s time to assemble your book. This can be a daunting task, but with a little practice, you’ll be a pro in no time.
First, you’ll need to print out your book pages. Make sure to print on the correct side of the paper, and that your pages are in the correct order.
Next, you’ll assemble your book. If you’ve chosen saddle-stitching, you’ll need to fold your pages in half and staple them together. If you’ve chosen perfect binding, you’ll need to attach the cover to the book block using a strong adhesive.
Here’s a great quote to keep in mind when assembling your book:
“The biggest risk is not taking any risk…” – Mark Zuckerberg
This quote is especially relevant when it comes to DIY book production. Remember, it’s okay to take risks and try new things – it’s all part of the learning process.
If you’re new to DIY book production, it’s a good idea to start with a small project, like a chapbook. Check out our guide on Writing a Chapbook in 5 Easy Steps for more information.
With a little patience, practice, and perseverance, you can create a beautiful, professional-looking book on a shoestring budget. So, don’t be afraid to take the leap and start producing your own book today!
Remember, DIY book production is all about creativity and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make mistakes – it’s all part of the process. And, if you need more guidance, check out our Self-Publishing Blueprint for more information on DIY book production.
by Susan Sondheimer | Blog
As a writer, there’s something special about holding your own book in your hands. Whether it’s a chapbook, a memoir, or a poetry, seeing your words in a physical format can be incredibly fulfilling. But, getting your book into print can seem daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Fear not, dear writer! With a little patience, some helpful tools, and a willingness to learn, you can produce your own book – and it’s easier than you think.
Getting Started: Understanding Your Options
When it comes to getting your book into print, you have a few options. You can use a print-on-demand service like CreateSpace or IngramSpark, which allows readers to order copies of your book as needed. You can also opt for short-run printing, where you print a smaller quantity of books at once. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at DIY book production.
If you’re new to self-publishing, it may be helpful to start with a Self-Publishing Blueprint to get a sense of the overall process. But, if you’re ready to dive into DIY book production, let’s get started!
Designing Your Book
When it comes to designing your book, you’ll need to think about the interior and exterior design. For the interior, you’ll need to format your text and add any images or illustrations. For the exterior, you’ll need to design your cover art. Don’t worry – you don’t need to be a professional designer to create a great-looking book!
For interior design, you can use a tool like Vellum, which is specifically designed for book formatting. It’s user-friendly and can help you create a professionally-looking interior in no time.
For cover design, you can use a tool like Canva, which offers a range of templates and design elements. You can also use a design program like Adobe InDesign, if you’re familiar with it.
Here are some tips for designing your book:
- Choose a font that’s easy to read, and stick to it throughout your book.
- Use headings and subheadings to break up your text and create visual interest.
- Keep your design simple and uncluttered – you want your words to be the focus!
- Use high-quality images and illustrations that are relevant to your content.
Printing and Binding Your Book
Once you have your design ready, it’s time to print and bind your book. For DIY book production, you’ll need to print your book on a high-quality printer. You can use a perfect binding method, which involves gluing your pages together, or a saddle-stitch method, which involves stapling your pages together.
When it comes to paper, look for a weight that’s at least 80gsm. This will give your book a professional feel and prevent the pages from feeling too thin.
Here are some tips for printing and binding your book:
- Use a high-quality printer that can handle heavy paper weights.
- Make sure your print settings are set to “borderless” to ensure your pages print correctly.
- Use a binding method that works for your book’s size and page count.
- Practice makes perfect – don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts at binding don’t turn out perfectly!
“The biggest risk is not taking any risk… In a world that’s changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.” – Mark Zuckerberg
This quote applies perfectly to DIY book production. It can be intimidating to try something new, but the only way to learn and improve is to take the risk and try it!
Tips and Resources for DIY Book Production
Here are some additional tips and resources to help you with your DIY book production:
- Take your time and don’t rush the process. DIY book production can be time-consuming, but it’s worth it in the end.
- Experiment with different paper types, binding methods, and design elements to find what works best for you and your book.
- If you’re new to writing, consider start with a chapbook. This can be a great way to get your feet wet with DIY book production. Check out our guide to Writing a Chapbook in 5 Easy Steps for more information.
- Consider taking a course or workshop to learn more about DIY book production and self-publishing. Our Write, Design, Publish: Fast Track course can give you the skills and confidence you need to produce your own book.
I hope this guide has given you the confidence and skills you need to produce your own book. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes and learn as you go. With patience, practice, and a willingness to learn, you can create a beautiful, professional-looking book that you can be proud of. Happy writing and publishing!
