Over the weekend, I wrote a short story. It was pretty great to be creating something and editing it and polishing it. I plan to submit it to a contest this week. My husband doesn't normally read the things I write. It's not that he doesn't think I am good or anything. He just doesn't like the genres that I do. He read this piece and was pretty complimentary.
Afterward, we were talking and he asked, "Have you ever thought about self-publishing?" He told me that maybe I should polish my first book as much as I could and then put it on Amazon for $.99 or for free and see how it does. His line of thought was that it could build buzz for future books or even help get an agent if I wanted to go that route. I can't honestly say that I haven't thought about it. Seeing my own story in print (sort of) is very appealing, no matter what form it is. But I would be giving up on part of the dream. Holding something tangible and papery in my hands.
I've been following the evolution of the digital market. Sure there are success stories. But would it be worth it? What do you think, Friends?
6 comments:
Personally, I wouldn't do it if I was in your situation, but it's all up to you. I know some agents don't really like self-publishing, and if your books doesn't do well, then you're out money and agents will see your numbers as well.
But, if you're writing for yourself, which is what we all should be doing, and you really don't care how many books you sell and just want to see your name in print, then go for it! :) I've never been one to look into self-publishing because of how much time it would take to self-promote and try to get people to notice your book. It would be too hard and too stressful for me to do that. That is just me though! I certainly don't look down on people who self-publish! If it's what you want to do, then I'll certainly support you! :)
I try and remember all of those hard long hours I poured into my work. Giving it away for free seems wrong. Perhaps you could write something specifically for that purpose?
Ditto what Chantele said. Personally, I'd be hesitant to do it, just because I want to spend my time writing, not promoting. Also, as soon as you have an ISBN, agents - and publishers - can track your sales and see how well you've done. If they're less than super fantastic (especially when you're self-publishing), some agents might see that as a minus.
Sounds like the consensus is, don't give up on the traditional route. Really, that's what I want to do, but it's hard not to think about the easiest route.
I'm firmly set on the traditional route, but you need to do what is right for you. No matter what you choose tho, make sure your work is as strong as you can make it. Writing well takes time and doesn't happen overnight. You want your work to be a reflection of your passion, so give it your all. :)
Angela @ The Bookshelf Muse
Honestly, I'm seriously considering this. I don't really want to be famous. I want my books to be read, but I don't want it to be about me. Signings and lectures are fun places to meet people and get to know them, but I don't want them to be about me either. Going with a small publisher or self-publishing seems kind of nice and slow to me. Then again, I'd be sad if no one bought the books to read them. With large press you're guaranteed a small readership, right?
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