Thinking of Self-Publishing Your Memoir? Start Here
Finishing a memoir is a wonderful achievement. Then comes the next question: how do you turn your manuscript into an actual book?
Self-publishing can be a rewarding way to bring your story into the world, particularly if you are writing for family, friends or a particular community. It gives you control over how your book looks, how many copies are printed and where it is sold.
But it involves more than uploading a Word document and pressing a button.
A finished book needs careful editing, thoughtful design, correct formatting, a professionally prepared cover and decisions about ISBNs, printing, pricing and distribution. There are also practical questions to consider. Will you sell your book online, through bookshops, at events or directly to readers? Will you print a small number for family, or make it available more widely?
Gordon Thompson of Clouds of Magellan Press has generously given me permission to share his detailed guide, Small Press, Big Dreams: Self-Publishing Explained.
This free 51-page resource walks writers through the publishing process, including:
preparing the book and cover files
ISBNs and front matter
book layout and design
Lightning Source and IngramSpark
printing costs and pricing
distribution and direct sales
Gordon also offers an important reminder: when you self-publish, you become the publisher. That means taking responsibility for the quality of the finished book. Professional help with editing, proofreading, design or file preparation may still be a very worthwhile investment.
His guide is educational, practical and detailed, and is freely shared here with his permission. It is an excellent place to begin if you are considering self-publishing your memoir and want to understand what is involved before making any big decisions.
