for convenience and economic efficiency, which can make it difficult to compete. (To learn more about how to create a successful cover package, turn to Page 42.)

Of course, if you’re just looking into self-publishing for your own gratification, perhaps to have some copies for your friends and family members, these considerations don’t apply—and you have more affordable options now than ever before. See question No. 3.

It’s up to each writer to research the options carefully and make an informed decision. But what we can do is help you get started, so we’ve created an exclusive online directory of 60 self-publishers and the services they offer. Simply visit writersdigest. com, where more information about each one is just a click away.

2. WILL I KILL MY CHANCES WITH A TRADITIONAL PUBLISHER IF I SELF-PUBLISH?

Of course not. Even if you publish what in hindsight is a terrible book, or you’re embarrassed by the results, no agent or editor would turn down your subsequent work if it looked like a surefire winner in the marketplace. But, you may ask, have you ruined your chances of traditionally publishing that same work?

It depends. If your self-published book sells well and looks like it could take off with traditional distribution (and you’ve probably read success stories like this, such as the one on Page 50), then agents and editors will gladly take a piece of that success. This is a huge exception to the rule, though, and no one should self-publish solely to win attention from traditional publishing houses. It’s a rare occurrence, and one that usually only happens after the author has created a quality work and dedicated countless hours to self-promotion.

4. I’VE ALREADY SELF-PUBLISHED. NOW WHAT?

If you’re wondering if you’ve made the wrong decision, it’s time to stop worrying and start focusing on either marketing the book you now have, or moving on to writing your next book.

had about self-publishing—its advantages or disadvantages, its past and future, its advertising presence in this very magazine. As publisher and editorial director of Writer’s Digest, I can tell you this is where we stand: Our main goal is to inform and educate, so you make the right decision for your work. Self-publishing can be easy, affordable and satisfying—but marketing, selling and promoting can be difficult. Many authors enter into it without a full understanding of the challenges and of what self-publishing services can and can’t provide. We want to help you have realistic expectations and give you the tools to succeed, no matter what road you take. [WD]

5. SO WHERE DOES WD STAND ON SELF-PUBLISHING? I can’t tell you how many heated discussions the Writer’s Digest staff has

JANE FRIEDMAN is the publisher and editorial director of Writer’s Digest. Read her blog at blog.writersdigest.com/ norules.

Get Smart: Resources for Self-Publishers

• The Fine Print of Self-Publishing by Mark Levine (Bascom Hill Publishing Group). Now in its third edition, this guide’s subtitle describes it best: “The Contracts & Services of 45 Self-Publishing Companies Analyzed, Ranked & Exposed.” It’s a good place to start doing your homework.

• Writer Beware. This site is very popular when it comes to warning writers about scams. It has clear explanations of self-publishing services and offers excellent questions you should ask any service before signing the dotted line. It also has a wealth of helpful links. sfwa.org/beware/printondemand.html sfwa.org/beware/vanitypublishers.html

• POD-DY Mouth. This now-discontinued blog of POD book reviews is still enormously helpful and informative for anyone who’s considering the self-publishing path. girlondemand.blogspot.com

3. IF I SELF-PUBLISH, WHICH
SERVICE SHOULD I USE?
We can’t possibly recommend a
service that works for everyone
because every writer has a unique
situation, a unique book, a unique
set of resources and unique goals.

• Dog Ear Publishing. This self-publishing provider offers excellent information to help you compare various services. Obviously its information favors its own service, but it still offers the key points you’ll need to keep in mind as you evaluate all your options. dogearpublishing.net/self-publishing-companies.aspx