I really respect this decision, Sarah, and appreciate the insights you give here. I think this newsletter is the most comprehensive “why I chose to self-publish” piece I’ve ever read- and it makes me believe that self-publishing is a real, viable option. Go you!!!!!
Hey, Sarah. I'm the guy who you responded to yesterday on that shout-out thread. I was intrigued at your notion to self-publish because I've just begun to think about this phase of the process. This morning, I found the time to read, then re-read, your 'On the Journey' post on how to do this. You *completely* nailed it for me, fwiw. Not only am I currently reading Grohl's 'The Storyteller,' I've also realized that I eschew any limelight while also desiring creative control over my project. I wrote my first book, a hybrid memoir, solely because my closest acquaintances unanimously encouraged me to write down my story, after they heard me illuminate them with the details of my life. The only reason I was compelled to share with them some of the deepest, darkest secrets about my past, was because of what I found once I began submitting my DNA to those increasingly popular databases, like Ancestry and 23andMe. When I started "writing it all down," I didn't even know how to begin, because I'd never written more than a verbose email or two. But I was so inspired I eventually found my voice then couldn't stop. Sixteen months later - after about 1500 man-hours - I was editing the final draft (although, like you, I still find some simple something that needs to be tweaked). Earlier this week I began studying up on various publishing houses, only to learn that I would be paying them to own the rights to my work, none of which appeals to me. Then you appeared, right on queue.
This came across my Notes feed today. I'm hoping to eventually publish my Harold and Sallie stories in book form, so thanks for sharing your experiences.
So wonderful to read this. I have a memior manuscript I want to self publish on Amazon, it was my M.A. Creative Writing manuscript. Your post is a good nudge for me. I will look on Amazon to preorder! Congratulations Sarah!
Why I Chose to Self-Publish My First Book
I just pre-ordered and am looking forward to reading your story!
I really respect this decision, Sarah, and appreciate the insights you give here. I think this newsletter is the most comprehensive “why I chose to self-publish” piece I’ve ever read- and it makes me believe that self-publishing is a real, viable option. Go you!!!!!
Hey, Sarah. I'm the guy who you responded to yesterday on that shout-out thread. I was intrigued at your notion to self-publish because I've just begun to think about this phase of the process. This morning, I found the time to read, then re-read, your 'On the Journey' post on how to do this. You *completely* nailed it for me, fwiw. Not only am I currently reading Grohl's 'The Storyteller,' I've also realized that I eschew any limelight while also desiring creative control over my project. I wrote my first book, a hybrid memoir, solely because my closest acquaintances unanimously encouraged me to write down my story, after they heard me illuminate them with the details of my life. The only reason I was compelled to share with them some of the deepest, darkest secrets about my past, was because of what I found once I began submitting my DNA to those increasingly popular databases, like Ancestry and 23andMe. When I started "writing it all down," I didn't even know how to begin, because I'd never written more than a verbose email or two. But I was so inspired I eventually found my voice then couldn't stop. Sixteen months later - after about 1500 man-hours - I was editing the final draft (although, like you, I still find some simple something that needs to be tweaked). Earlier this week I began studying up on various publishing houses, only to learn that I would be paying them to own the rights to my work, none of which appeals to me. Then you appeared, right on queue.
Bravo!
An author/creator I admire, Brendan Leonard, has written a lot of good advice also about self-publishing; you can find it at semi-rad.com.
Very wise post. Keep gently plodding forwards
Congrats on getting your book out there. It is a difficult but rewarding experience.
This came across my Notes feed today. I'm hoping to eventually publish my Harold and Sallie stories in book form, so thanks for sharing your experiences.
So wonderful to read this. I have a memior manuscript I want to self publish on Amazon, it was my M.A. Creative Writing manuscript. Your post is a good nudge for me. I will look on Amazon to preorder! Congratulations Sarah!
Excellent and inspiring article, Sarah.
Imformative and insightful stuff here, your writing is very engaging and one appreciates your shared journey :) keep writing and best of luck with it!