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.
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
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!