Why I Didn't Self Publish

Today I am giving a bit of insight into my decision, many years ago, to pursue traditional publishing. I've been at it for about 5 years, and I'm on my third book, which is being published next year!
I talk about distribution, branding, editing, marketing and more in the video, and something I forgot to mention that ties into distribution: you can't get into libraries unless you are traditionally published, and libraries are very important to me!
Also, I'd like to note that OF COURSE good self-publishers hire editors and cover designers and whatnot to help them produce the best possible produce, similar to what you get with a traditional publisher. I forgot to mention it, and don't want any awesome self-publishers to think that I'm selling them short! However, I do like that in traditional publishing that money flows to the author, so, again, I don't have to worry about the "running my own business" aspect of the whole thing.
To each his own, and these are just my personal reasons!
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[@CharlesWarrenOnline]

I plan to pursue hybrid publishing. Owning the rights to my work is important to me. Allow the big dogs to get your name poppin', then go Indie. Thank you business school.

[@KreativeKill]

haha thats really smart! I didnt think about that.

[@AlexaDonne]

Oh, yes, for certain works I have in mind and definitely anything in other, specific genres, I want to do the publishing myself. I have a few ideas for adult romance up my sleeve :)

[@CharlesWarrenOnline]

Alexa Donne rooting for you bud!

[@AlexaDonne]

Thank you :) If I end up hybrid publishing later, you know I'll make a video haha.

[@mastershakeme]

See, I thought if you published with one company, you had to remain with them. I'm seeing that isn't so! I think you've got the right idea. Maybe you can even use the profits from your first book to self publish to decrease the out of pocket costs

[@LilyMeadeBooks]

Self publishing can also be expensive! There's a lot of upfront costs.

[@AlexaDonne]

Yeah that's a whole thing, too. It's pretty much all-around a bad fit for me :D

[@jeremyrogers5902]

Amanda Marie, I would love to know more about free self-publishing, because I've ran into some hefty fees from hiring editors alone. Feel free to message me here or i can give you my phone number and we can text if you dont mind.

[@jeremyrogers5902]

Amanda Marie thank you so much

[@jeremyrogers5902]

Amanda Marie I checked out Draft2Digital and the downfall is they don't offer editing. That's the part that costs Self Pub authors in the thousands. Is there a very inexpensive yet good quality editing service? I've found the cheapest at 2800.00 but that's so outside of my budget at the moment.

[@jeremyrogers5902]

Also they no longer print but send you a PDF file which I can do with Scrivener

[@sachaclow2576]

I am going to self-publish my first book. I would love at some point to get an agent and a publisher, but I really want to do my first book through self publishing. I of course will have some help and I already found a fantastic cover designer. I think self publishing allows more freedom and you can pretty much do what you want. It has always been my dream to get a book published and self publishing just fits me better as of now.

[@sharonefee1426]

@Hannah Papernick-Yudin People who want a hard copy of books aren't odd. That's more comfortable this way. I don't have anything against e-books, but I don't feel like reading it all from computer. I had enough of it in the last 3 years.

[@keralkaurjhaf270]

I'm doing the same first book self second traditional. Here's a guide to self Publishing kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ_EkqqqjtCqpc0

[@delusionalbroccoli302]

Why I like this video: 1. it comes from a traditionally published author 2. when self - published authors talk about the pros and cons of traditional and self - publishing I feel like they make traditional publishing seem like a hell hole just because they are self - published. Right now I think I will be publishing my debut traditionally although I'll have to look into debuting with a series - one video said that it is riskier to debut with an intention of writing a series bc the first book might flop. So you would have to make the ending so that it could exist as a one booker. What are your thoughts on this?

[@SamOwenI]

I think every novel should have a real resolution at the end, whether it's standalone or a series. You don't necessarily need a cliffhanger if it's part of a series. On the other hand, you do definitely need a proper ending at the end of each book, ie. with some conflict resolution.

[@yamika.]

Well, Twilight and Harry Potter werr major successes, so...

[@louisemunro9437]

@@yamika. yes they were. Each Harry Potter book has a complete plot (the chamber of secrets, the Triwizard tournament etc) and therefore, begins and ends as a book should. If the first book flopped, it would have still made sense as a standalone (with a strong fanfic following the unresolved threads).

[@mastershakeme]

Lol, I'm debuting with a series and the cliffhanger is MAJOR. I hope it doesn't flop 😂 here goes nothing!

[@gabrielblyss340]

You are right Laura. I had those feelings too.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Very valid points. There's definatley pros and cons to both sides.

[@finzuler5955]

S.A.S REPORT TO [e-mail]

[@moodybeignet3385]

Pros and cons. I too want to be a hybrid author. It astonishes me though, the number of errors or lack of quality storytelling I find in books published by the Big 5.

[@jennerallyamazing5528]

Same here!!! A lot of the books that have the hype Can be downright problematic and lack genuine character arcs and storytelling structure. But hey, by the end of the day, I guess as long as there’s steamy romance anything will sell 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@carrina1006]

I keep going back and forth about what’s right for me. I don’t want to give my money away to publishers and agents; I’d rather front those costs for editing and cover design and marketing and have my book be all mine. At the same time... I want long term success and if I burn myself out by doing all the things, I could really sabotage myself.

[@annpippin6388]

What is hybrid publishing .

[@annpippin6388]

What is hybrid publishing?

[@annpippin6388]

Captioning needed

[@apriltaylor8923]

Great insight. I love that you choose the option that works for you and share that without putting down self-publishing. So many people are all for one option and against the other and I love how you are knowledgeable about both and highlight the fact that knowing yourself and your genre is key. Hybid is a great option and my goal.

[@Glitchygamingxx]

I love that you are straight forward. Not everyone can run the whole business scene of it all. Yet, we have the desire and flair with writing. It's re-assuring. Thanks. I'm now a subscriber.

[@1MKWilliams]

This was great to watch and I appreciate that you called out the mindset of the self-published authors and how they do wear multiple hats. Some days it is daunting, but most days it is a fun adventure. I am always learning more and on my best days I feel like I am building my own publishing empire with all that I do to push, publish, and produce my books.

[@MrAleosc]

I want to thank you for your videos. They are an inspiration to many of us, out there, who just started writing fiction. You take the fears away and give really good insight. I hope you do well, you truly deserve it. Óscar, from Spain.

[@johnnynewnes1022]

Hi Alexa, I just wanted to say that I have greatly enjoyed your videos. Thank you so much for the great information you are sharing. I really appreciate how organized and clear you are with the subjects you present. Keep it up!

[@AlexaDonne]

Thanks! I'm so glad you are enjoying everything :)

[@paulskertich9345]

I've done some self-publishing myself, and I didn't like it. At first, I thought it would be fantastic. As I grew and learned from my mistakes from negative reviews. I've took on the challenge to go the traditional route. Sure, it's not easy as pie. But, it's challenging. I'm still trying to find more literacy agents that love science fiction and horror as I continue to query them. I've learned greatly from you to keep the query letter short and sweet. I've used the HOOK, BOOK, COOK method. I'll have a few more weeks or more than that to see how my queries did and manuscript did. If I get no responses, I need to adjust and make my query stand out. If I get tier rejections then I'll need to create stronger hooks inside the manuscript. Not only that, but I'll need to make readers care about the main character quickly. So, they can relate to the main character. I love your advice more than anyone else's advice, Alexa. There's some bad advice on YT. One guy stated in a video: "Do not query agents because your inviting them to reject you." Well, duh! If they reject you, it means the author needs to do something better. I've noticed there are some that spend years or months or so as they try to find an agent. Only to just to hang up the towel and go straight to self-publishing. Finally, when self-publishing, the author spends more time to market their novels, novellas, or what not than writing their books. I'm happy that you're getting another novel in book shelves next year. You're showing everyone that their dreams are possible, but they're going to have to work hard for it --- just like you did.

[@nananina2437]

Its always nice to hear someone's point of view about why they chose self-pub or tradish. Thanks Alexa!

[@cloudlake]

Really enjoying these. I just let it play in the background as I do the boring things that aren't writing. Super helpful episode! I'm open to either or both. Need more research as to where my story will fit.

[@ChristopherLongAuthor]

"Traditional publishers know what they're doing -- except when they don't." Love it!

[@suearoo]

THIS IS SO INTERESTING I've been thinking of moving from traditional to self publishing... so I'm doing a lot of research on this. The distribution point is SO relevant... as is the reputable nature of going with a publisher. I also hate money, and dealing with it, gah! definitely food for thought here. i am very glad I watched this. Thanks x.

[@AlexaDonne]

I'm so glad it helped!

[@slockie4472]

Thank you so much for your videos on Trad Pub. They're very informative. I initially wanted to self-publish my book. I'm pretty sure I know the ins and outs of online marketing and how to market a book, but unfortunately I don't have the money to hire a good editor so I'm thinking of traditional publishing.

[@coffee_stars_books9242]

Thanks for this. I'm in the middle of querying agents, but I think even if YA had been more successful in the self-publishing industry, I would have gone for traditional publishing. Like you said, it feels nice to have a book in the shelf. More than that though, I have downloaded a handful of self-published books on Amazon that had spelling mistakes and grammar errors, and while I proofread everything, I'd still be worried some stuff might slip through the cracks. At least with traditional publishing, there are editors etc to make sure mistakes are minimised.

[@bigphilly7345]

Amen! I've self-published short stories and novellas but I'm working on a manuscript for traditional publishers for all the reasons you mentioned. I just want to write a great book and call it a day. I have a great day job. I don't wanna be a book promoter 24/7. Well done video.

[@isabelsterling8878]

My long term goal is to be a hybrid writer: trad for MG and YA, indie for adult. But it'll likely be at least 5 years before I'd take the indie plunge (I'd want to write at least a full trilogy before releasing anything so there's a good speed of initial releases).

[@Amanda-nq6mw]

I love this! I don't have the personality needed for self publish and do well, so I'm glad I'm not alone. Hopefully one day I can finish my book and then take the plunge :)

[@nessparadis6948]

Did you finish?

[@thewhitewombat.]

Great Video! loved hearing your opinions you make some great points. I am a young adult fantasy writer. My debut novel is currently being professionally edited so i have the option to go either way publishing wise. Of course to be traditionally published is my dream and it is so amazing to hear your journey and advice. Cant wait to see more of your channel.

[@AlexaDonne]

If you're considering traditional publishing, you should look into my program Author Mentor Match! If you are chosen, it would provide a lot of guidance for pursuing trad pub!

[@thewhitewombat.]

Thank you. I will definitely look into your program!

[@lizzychrome7630]

Thanks again for a helpful video. Hearing people talk about why they don't want to self publish made me realize why I did. We all have different priorities with our writing, and it's helpful to hear what other people's priorities were when they made the decisions that they did. Distribution matters far less to me, now that we live in the Internet age. Given the choice, I am much more concerned with having control over how my books are marketed, what their covers look like, how their back descriptions read, and that sort of thing, than with selling. I have been selling freelance art for a few years now, and worked in retail for over a decade, and decided that I absolutely want to be in control of how my own products are sold. I also have no intentions of ever making my art or writing my full-time job--never did, not even as a child.

[@KhadijahVBauthor]

I'm definitely interested in traditional publishing. I have 3 picture books finished and there is no way I could self publish those. It is way too expensive an option for me. I'm querying my 1st YA book while writing another one. Thanks for your channel and your videos. They are informative and I always come away with some knowledge.

[@eruvandib.676]

This is quite a late reply, but I only just found you this year (2019) and am learning so much from watching all your videos... I want to pursue traditional publishing for all the reasons you mentioned. There are quite a few self publishers among my group of writer friends, and while I love and respect them, I just don't have the same desire for 100% control, nor do I want to have to wear all of those hats myself. (I've already had a taste of wearing multiple hats by running my Etsy shop and I just plain don't want my attentions divided like that when it comes to my writing.) I also am not a fast writer and cannot afford to pay for all the things it takes to self publish well, and I really, really, REALLY want to see my physical books on a shelf at the book store someday, and as nice as tiny indie book stores can be, they are not enough for me. Like you, I am also extremely patient to the point of stubbornness, and darn it, traditional is what I want, no matter how long it takes! Someday, if and when I become established as a traditional author and feel it's something I want or need to do I may very well go hybrid, but traditional is definitely what I want to do first.

[@lucylume]

Thank you this was well presented and helpful :) I still leaning towards self publishing I think... But it's good to research all the sides to make a well informed choice x there are a couple of traditional publishing pros here I hadn't considered x

[@AlexaDonne]

I totally agree! The key is careful research and then approaching either avenue in a professional way :D

[@anastaysia]

Thank you. Very informative!

[@telekineticguineapig7419]

Thank you for this. So much! I love your videos because so many of the people who I follow on KZbin are self-published and there are things that I notice... in that almost every single one of them will sort of devolve from talking about their work and talking about writing in general to talking about their sponsors and trying to sell me things. It has really turned me off from self-publishing. I do not want to be the author who's trying to use their platform to sell skill share subscriptions and to that end, there's almost more dignity in traditional publishing and I hate to say that because I know there are self-published authors who don't do this. I think my problem is that I am writing one singular insanely long series and nothing else because I'm not married to the idea of being an author as much as I'm married to the idea of this series existing and getting exposure. It puts me in a place where I'd LOVE to traditionally publish but I am often afraid that my series would fall into that category of something a traditional publisher would just not want to take on because I'm not that person who's willing to just write a new book or start a new idea in order to be an author. It's not about "I want to be a writer" it's about "I want people to know this specific story and no one else can write it." I often doubt my writing skills as a whole. I have great confidence in the series but not in myself, even though I created the series. And it's a series I have been working on for almost 20 years. I started when I was 12, which is why I haven't really pursued publishing. I haven't felt ready to even think about it until pretty recently. And thinking about it has made me realize how terrifying it is. And how exciting.

[@shawnsprague220]

You said something really important starting at the 3:30 mark and then again at 9:15. (I think you said a lot of important stuff here actually!) When you work with a decent sized publisher, it is a team of people working on the book. It is no longer a product of just the author. That's true with any book as long as the author has readers and/or an editor from which they take and use feedback, but it is true to a much greater degree with a traditional publisher. I know there are exceptions (depending on the author), but when you read a book published from a major house, you are truly reading the efforts of a group. You can look at that reality in a lot of different ways, but It's important to note.

[@alinasartcafe]

Depending on your personality and needs, I agree, self-publishing might be more of a chore than anyone should ever have to deal with. For control freaks... might not be that great. I have been a hybrid author for a while, and I am going to continue like that, but 75% of my books will always be self-published. I am going with smaller publishers, but that is because of the genres I choose to write. Gay fiction and gay romance are not yet mainstream. Sure, there are some exceptions, but most of the titles in these genres (and all their subgenres) are published by small, indie presses and self-published authors. Totally agree with you, volume does matter. I saw the difference this year when I had a lot of titles released. Some were re-releases, some were new, but the volume made a huge difference. Self-publishing also comes with an initial price tag (editing, cover design, etc). I am lucky that I have found great editors and cover designers and that I am techie enough that I could teach myself how to find a good formatting software for ebooks and learn how to format paperbacks. But the marketing and business side require just as much work and a solid investment. It's definitely not for everyone. Just as traditional publishing does not work for everyone. I love to see more authors doing their research before choosing one over the other. I believe it's good to know what you're getting into, otherwise it won't go all that well.

[@AlexaDonne]

Yes to all of this! I have friends who write m/m as well and self-pub or small press are the best avenues--and in so many cases, you're better off self-pubbing! I admire anyone who can do the volume, too... it might be something I could do if I planned WAY ahead of time in terms of a hybrid series, but I think I'd have to write all the books first and then publish them. I just take too long between books!

[@alinasartcafe]

Planning ahead helps me a lot because I tend to get distracted by all the projects. It's how I ended up with a lot of half written books or almost finished books that never saw the light of day. It made things easier this year. I don't have all the books written before I publish, but I do have them all thought out and outlined. It makes writing them a lot easier. But I agree, being able to write fast helps self-pubbed authors. I know of only one exception when a self-published author made a living with only one book out (Jenna Moreci).

[@myteacherisaterroristthebo6615]

Good point!

[@m.j.henson7235]

I'm shooting for traditional publishing but in the meantime while I'm waiting on submissions to literary agents I am researching on self-publishing so I can fall back to that to get book out there and into reader's hands.

[@UncleMarco]

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree about the vetting process. It’s extremely important to me as an aspiring writer to be pushed to make the best art that I can, and unfortunately the editing resources available for the self-publishing route don’t compare and are EXPENSIVE to get quality consulting. I feel like if I were in a self-publishing situation (which would just in general be idiotic for me considering I write literary fiction), I would be in an echo chamber about my own work: one of the biggest assets to my education has been having other perspectives challenge my writing.

[@cvhoneybee]

Family and friends always ask me why I want to traditionally publish, I must now send them this video. You explained my exact thoughts and feelings. Ultimately, being a full-time writer would be like a dream come true for me, but I'm not going to pretend that I will be able to do that, I want to be real. And what you said about the traditional route is exactly how I feel, thanks for sharing your insights!

[@AlexaDonne]

I'm so glad it resonated! I've thought a lot about the reasons over the years (and learned SO MUCH about hybrid possibilities too!), and since I've gotten my traditional deal and started seeing the pay-off, I am happy with the strategy. It can be so hard to explain to people, especially those who hear how slow trad pub is an assume therefore it's not the best route. There are pros and cons to everything!

[@absolutelycitron1580]

A lot of people irl and onlime are telling me to self publish when I'm done editing but I relate with everything said in this video. Tysm for making this!

[@authordeborahjeanwhite6188]

I’ve a traditional publisher phoning me this Monday! I’m excited

[@KreativeKill]

I think bookstores will be the most important thing definitely for traditional publishing. Theres been more ways for self publishers to distribute recently though, so for me self publishing will still be my number one. I also don't mind making the trips to bookstore and telling them about my book if they're interested. Of course they're going to want your book to do well on amazon or wherever if they are going to carry your book. Regardless if bookstores dont carry I dont mind as long as a lot of people like my book and you know help me live my writing life :) Thats awesome that your getting your third book out there. Im interested in traditional vs self publishing, and I look forward to any videos you have coming up on the topic. Its an interesting time since the amazon goldrush has gone and its nice to see what people think about both types of publishing.

[@AlexaDonne]

Well, for bookstores (and libraries) you need to be in their catalog, and you can't get in the catalog unless you are published by someone working with the right distributors. Some local indies may make an exception for a local self-pub author (I know one hybrid author whose local indie did stock her self-pub title), but major chains and major indies won't. They'll only stock what can be ordered through those distribution streams. So that's what I mean when I say bookstore distribution--have to get into the right catalogs.

[@KreativeKill]

Oh I see. I thought Barnes worked the same way indie bookstores did, there indie in my area. I guess that rules out Barnes then if you're selfpublishing. Its weird though, cuz I thought Kristen Martin was able to get her books into Barnes in her area. Also I am just wondering. Is there a way to get into their catalogs if you have your own self publishing company? or is that basically impossible?

[@AlexaDonne]

When I've talked to the hybrid authors I know they've said no, re: B&N (and my friend who works there said similar), but going off your note I did Google and it looks like you may be correct: B&N has started making some exceptions, but only for bestsellers that qualify and are then hand-selected. So that's good for someone who has self-published & sold very well. I'd still caution that the vast majority of those who self-publish won't qualify, and I'm an odds/statistics girl. (some trad pubbed books are declined by B&N, btw, but the majority make it into the store)

[@RosasUtopia]

Two years later do you still feel the same?

[@brookelorren141]

I'm open to both (and I have self-published a short story and a few fanfiction novels/novellas) but even if you have a good story, there's no guarantee that you'll find the right agent fit. Self-publishing is more expensive because you have to hire your own editors and the like, but at least it's an option that stays open even if the publishers pass.

[@gabrielblyss340]

Thank you very much. I know this is a video you did years ago, I just want you to know it's still useful.I'm a new author, I just finished my first book, now working on the second one. My stories are great, I believe. I was wondering whether I should self-publish or do traditional publishing. Your advice is great. Where can I find international publishers?

[@Batman-jc5uc]

Self publishing is also hard. You have to be an expert in marketing to be able to sell any books

[@spinnerchic5772]

I am in my late 40's and I prefer hardback books. I have a bookshelves filled with them, new and antique. I rarely purchase an E-book. This is the hard part for me when it comes to publishing. There are publishers that only publish E-books. My brother has published at least ten books but only in the E-book format, unfortunately. His publisher is in Europe, where he lives.

[@mastershakeme]

I totally agree with you! I think traditional publishing was the perfect choice for you. I'm with a traditional publisher too, but not a major one.... Either way, I feel like I've been put down for going this route. My writing friends keep telling me how *great* self publishing is. But then again, maybe they're just trying to make themselves feel better, because I know they were rejected more than once by traditional publishers... They're rainining on my parade!

[@philipmann5317]

Alexa, you present yourself very well. And your points are correct, the pros and cons of self publishing. Going self-pub means being a jack-of all-trades, and mastering them all. The people who can do that are very rare.

[@helixsnow3722]

That is why we hire out

[@philipmann5317]

@@helixsnow3722 and they all cost. Yes, you can find editors and book designs on the web for relatively cheap costs. But a real editor will find the repeated words and phrases and will also find the plot holes that can sink your ship. And a template book cover will look like all the others, because it is like all the others. an editor will cost over $1,000, and a cover around double. Plus, you back cover blurb has to be a real hook, and not a synopsis. I put what I could into a cover , blurb I my own, although I had help in choosing ) and after that I could only afford to do my own editing. I didn't charge myself too much, but people keep finding mistakes. The marketing is another challenge, and I do what i can as long as it's free.

[@alexscott3971]

Brilliant video.

[@stephaniedunham4104]

I'm honestly kind of debating this out with myself. I kind of want to do both, but if I did, I would use a different name self-published and traditionally published works.

[@catcreme]

Exactly what I've been thinking too. I want the reputation and security that comes with trad publishing. Self-published authors make trad publishing sound like a nightmare that is only out to extract as much money as they can out of your work or make you fail on purpose and destroy your career.

[@LovelyKelly645]

And people who trad-publish make it sound like self-publishing is for people whose books weren't good enough to be trad-published or that the process is a complete nightmare and still cost you to go broke

[@animeguy10000000]

I'm open to both, I'm not sure if the complex story that I have in mind (involves multiple worlds, religion, and vampires, among other things) would work for Traditional Publishing, but like you said, Self-Publishing is a huge hurtle.

[@justanotherrandomdisneyfan3717]

I'll probably go the self-publishing route since I'm a teen and I have a lot more time on my hands. Probably with Ingram Spark since they're almost as good at distribution as trad pubs. Maybe I'll trad pub when I'm older but having the better royalty rates you get with self-publishing will help me save up for college anyways. The biggest factor for people is money, but I find that most self-publishers kickstart or crowdfund their books and it almost always works. It's a great way to go now since there are so many companies and marketplaces for almost everything you need to do it.

[@susanbuckminster282]

Thank you!

[@EmilynWood]

For the most part, I'm planning on self-publishing several of the books I want to write, but there's one Young Adult novel idea I have and if I ever write it I would want to see if I could get that one traditionally published.

[@veronicafigarella7904]

Thanks for your content I find it very useful!. Do you know if a Children´s Picture Book will be a good genre to launch as a self published one?

[@BedtimeBookworm]

I also have a lot of patience as well. I'm leaning towards traditional for many of the reasons you say, distribution and money for advertising being a big one. Just gotta write a book (or two.... or three...) first. Was the first book you wrote the first you sold? I feel like i need to get a few practice books under my belt before even attempting to query but I haven't even written one yet.

[@pippajackson3027]

Watching this a second time. I’m realizing now that effective self-publishing and traditional publishing BOTH require a team whose members are all good at what they do. In self-publishing, you have to build (and eventually hire) most of those members other than yourself. It’s both overwhelming and costly. But then, even getting your foot in the door in traditional publishing seems like such a challenge.

[@AnunnakiStarbeing]

I'm going traditional, because of the fact that I don't have to pay for editing and also I want my story to be the best it could possibly be. I might consider also being a hybrid, but only for shorter works.

[@caileycarrot]

I'm glad that this video doesn't talk down self publishing, unlike a lot of self pubbed authors that make trad seem like hell(well, it is, but those videos r too defensive) I would probably go hybrid myself:)

[@heatherdyer291]

I thought of doing self-publishing at first, even looking at Draft2Digital with a keen eye. It too is in my dream to see my books in bookstores and libraries and being able to physically pick it up. But I have also heard how traditional booksellers are/were tanking due to the big 'A'. So I figured self-publishing would be more beneficial because then I would have more avenues to open up to and I wouldn't be as restricted to a certain label of author as I like to write in a variety of genres. Also, as a creative (and admittedly perfectionist) I have the fear of losing the creative license to my 'babies' and would rather be as self-reliant as possible (If I can create a cover art myself I will/it's much preferred and would be able to save money in the process. Editing? Self-edit and save money there as much as possible). Another turnoff from the trad. publishing market is the wait time. I have anxiety enough as it is, I don't want to be waiting 6 months, a year, two years to see results. That being said, like you Alexa, my weakness would be in marketing and the money/taxes side of things. And I'm not sure where I'd be able to find a reliable accountant to hire in the small town I reside in. I'm not yet at a point where I'm ready to hit submit yet, but I'm still trying to look ahead and where I was once so sure of myself I'm not so much anymore and kind of feel lost--especially being an unknown entity at the present time. I want to debut right but I don't know which avenue is right (for me).

[@IMbirdieful]

Hey Alexa (and anyone else who might have input)! You mentioned there are some books (or types of books) that do better through self-publishing, and I was wondering what those might be? I have a very odd manuscript that I am weary about proposing to publishers who I am afraid might want to strip a lot of my artistic choices for the sake of monetization...

[@IceRiver1020]

I am nowhere near publishing as is, I'm only 17 and have much to learn, but at this point in time I'm quite certain that I want to do both traditional and self-publishing.

[@Neil-writer-author]

I'm open to both

[@KayeSpivey]

This was a really helpful perspective! :)

[@joyadewumi7420]

Might I ask which publisher you use?

[@jeremyrogers5902]

Can you ever be on the New York Time's best seller list with self pubbing?

[@deantalks7126]

yes!

[@margrietzonneveld7140]

Thank you for this video! Your reasons closely resemble my own, although I'm still in the early writing phase so I allow room for changing my mind in a few year if I want ;) I do have some questions, how do you know YA gets sold mostly still in book stores? How can I find out how the genre I'm interested in, is selling and where?

[@AlexaDonne]

It's kind of common knowledge in the industry, mostly, and it's not so much that sales happen overwhelmingly in bookstores, but that YA readers overwhelmingly prefer to purchase physical books--hardcover, paperback. A lot of those units still move through bookstores, but also online... it's really the distinction between ebooks & physical books. Here's a 2013 Guardian piece on YA reader preferences: www.theguardian.com/books/2013/nov/25/young-adult-readers-prefer-printed-ebooks. And Pew Research found that, overall, American readers buy physical books: www.pewinternet.org/2016/09/01/book-reading-2016/ For genre, it's kind of complicated and a matter of being aware of what publishers are and aren't buying, and looking at trends on the shelves. I advise going to a bookstore and seeing what they stock--you can usually see deficits (there is never enough YA sci-fi, very little paranormal, almost no YA urban fantasy that isn't Cassandra Clare from YEARS ago, though we'll see a UF resurgance starting soon as there have been recent sales). Then, you can look at bestselling indie YA on Amazon and you'll see that paranormal, dystopia and UF do very well--the three big genres traditional publishing has refused to buy for the last 5 years. (Fantasy always does well, in either area)

[@margrietzonneveld7140]

Thank you for your answer! I will start to track the book market more closely.

[@seesingsay]

Thank you so much for being very clever and honest in your explanation most helpful I also am not Business minded and totally respect the knowledge of other professional in the publishing world looking to find a children’s publisher to launch my Children’s Life Skills Rhythm & Rhyme books Nanny K seesingsay

[@skym.3362]

Can you go over what genres do well with self publishing? Thanks!!

[@Luke-lq9rn]

Adult probs does best within Self-Publishing, since adults have credit cards and bank accounts and stuff so they can access books that needa be brought through Amazon. Within Adult, Romance does really well! I'd recommend doing some more research through Google, and going to say Amazon and seeing what some of the high rank overall listings are.

[@chaosadmisttheclouds]

which genres do better at self publishing and which do better at traditional?

[@teenherofilms]

My first three books I used traditional publishers. I turned in book number three last September. I now have to wait nine months to see the fucking book in print and a further six months to see my first royalty cheque. Never again.

[@AlexaDonne]

Traditional publishing is definitely for the ultra patient, and it can be a maddening process! Different strokes for different folks, I say! :D

[@teenherofilms]

You left out the fact that the trad publisher has no clue if the book will sell or not. None. My first book was for Robert Hale, Ltd in 1989. They never made any money on it. I am interested in making money, not seeing my name on a fucking book cover.

[@AlexaDonne]

Well, this is why I advise writers in my money videos that it is in their best interest to sign with a reputable agent and publish with a large/reputable publisher, who will pay them a fair advance. Most authors never earn out their advances (ie: never earn royalties), but if you've received a generous advance, it doesn't matter how much your book sells. You've been paid for your work. Personally, the advance system in traditional publishing has worked to my benefit. Ultimately, everyone has a different goal for their career and styles and needs, and personally traditionally publishing suits me. Self-publishing best suits many others, for good reason. YMMV.

[@teenherofilms]

@WinterGirl Then you will probably sell very few books. I write for money. I could not care less about my privacy.

[@teenherofilms]

@WinterGirl How are you going to promote yourself if you do don book signings?

[@alexscott3971]

Do you have any recommendations for literary agents and the like? I've submitted to a few.

[@mtf88]

What publisher did you use or which ones do you recommend?

[@carolinenightbloom2778]

Even if I do well after I publish my first book, I like having a job and the security. Although I am not sure if my book is better suited for traditional or self. I want to do traditional but not sure the genre and age bracket is great in taditional

[@CaliforniaBlue1944]

Is memoir better suited for self publishing?

[@credinity8706]

I think you deserve to give yourself more credit, look at your channel, you’d be great at self publishing

[@bethanylaurell8081]

I found myself nodding along with a lot of this. I'm also planning to pursue traditional publishing, for a lot of the same reasons you mentioned--wanting to focus more on the creative side of things, plus not being a fast or prolific enough writer to build up the kind of quantity needed for self-publishing success. (It doesn't help that I know absolute zilch about marketing or business. I'm terrible at math!) That said, I can definitely see how self-publishing could be an attractive option to someone who's equally talented/interested in both the creative and business sides of publishing, or a Type A personality who really wants to maintain complete control over the whole process. And there's also something to be said for having the majority of the profits come to you, the author, rather than splitting up among you, your agent, your publisher, your publicist, etc. If there's one thing that's always seemed "off" to me about traditional publishing, it's how rare it is for authors--the people actually creating the product!--to make a living off of their work. You never hear about agents or editors needing to have a second "day job" just to make ends meet, but for the writers themselves, without whom there would be no need for agents or editors, it just seems to be accepted as a fact of life. I dunno, maybe I'm naive (and obviously self-publishing isn't usually a ticket to big money either), but that just doesn't seem right to me. Anyway, I suppose that was all a bunch of rambling to say maybe hybrid is the best way to go!

[@AlexaDonne]

Yes, I totally agree! Though I will say, I do know of many agents with second jobs, or who live at home (like, with parents) to make ends meet when they start out. Most agents don't make a living wage for the first five years at least. And only the breakout agents with huge, commercially successful clients make good money. The rest make just decent money (and rely on having gainfully employed spouses as much as writers have to!). Editors barely make a living wage, relative to the cost of NYC and the hours of work they put in--the starting salary hovers at around 30K (same as it was 15-20 years ago!). One level up, the salary goes to about 35K-40K a year (still pennies for NYC). Once you're 8-10 years in, if you've got the bump to Senior Editor/Editor, then you'll see salaries between 60-80K... which is still not much money in NYC. So I do have a lot of empathy for publishing professionals, who are terribly underpaid. I reserve my side-eye and frustration for the CEOs, who are old white dudes who make $$$$ and don't pay their lower level (mostly female) employees well at all. (and then, yeah, the trickle down to authors is pathetic) So I think the agents/editors who "stay in the game" do it for the love of it as much as writers, because the money is often terrible and the hours are longgggggg. (And a lot of people who wash out of the industry had the love but couldn't take the poverty-level wages. I feel for them, as well)

[@bethanylaurell8081]

Interesting (if depressing)! I didn't realize the pay for agents and editors was so inadequate as well. Thanks for sharing that info. Figures the CEOs would be the ones sucking up all the cash. *sigh*

[@AlexaDonne]

Oh, it's really disheartening! Journalism is the same, and it's one of several reasons why I'm not a journalist. I need to be paid a living wage! It's obscene what media industries get away with, and is it any wonder why there's so much privilege among those who can afford to work in those positions?

[@Athen239]

I keep getting ads online and on my phone for self-publishing related stuff. I haven't looked into it much. Especially since I already have a book deal from a publisher I like. Any suggestions to get the ads to go away?

[@Luke-lq9rn]

Get AdBlock for chrome

[@ARAsher]

Hi Alexa! I'm wondering how a person should go about planning his or her author "career." Any advice? I've been planning an indie career until recently and I would love to hear your thoughts. Also, just want to let you know that I love your channel; these videos are so inspiring, motivating, and informational! I aspire to this level of quality!

[@AlexaDonne]

I'm so glad you like! OK, so how you would strategize for your career is really going to differ depending on publishing path. I'm hardly the expert on indie, but things I do know that would be important: setting up a website/brand that would include a nice author photo (that looks professional & reflects said brand), a site & social media pages well-optimized for promoting your books, mapping out multiple books/series that you would be publishing and ensuring you can write quickly and get several books out a year. Also, lining up quality resources and budgeting for them--editor, someone to format the book, quality cover designer (the best ones have to be booked far in advance). For indie, I would do a lot of research into what you plan to write/want to write vs. what sells well in the market. Figure out what is popular and then how you will fit into the market. Are you doing something fresh that's missing in the market (a hole in the market), emulating the popular stuff with one twist that's unique to you? For traditional publishing it's a bit different. You don't have to worry as much on branding or marketing upfront because the only thing you should focus on is writing a quality, sellable book and finding a good agent to sell it for you. You still have to think long term in case of what you like to write, what you're good at writing, and the market but everything is way slower so you only have to think a few books in advance. As I mentioned in the video, it's important to know what you like to write & how that is received in the market + how quickly you write + how business minded you are. Hope that helps! (I'm happy to give more specific advice about trad pub!)

[@ARAsher]

Oh my gosh, thank you SO much for such a thorough and thoughtful response, I really appreciate it! I'm really thinking about going trad pub for my next book. Do you have any resources you'd recommend for a wannabe trad pub author? (besides your channel of course, which is an absolute gold mine!)

[@AlexaDonne]

Are you on Twitter? That's the best place to dive into the community. I started out by following a bunch of authors I liked, literary agents, book blogs, etc. You might also want to check out Author Mentor Match, the mentoring program I run. Even if you're not in the market for a mentor, the community is growing and very supportive--there will be a hashtag to follow #AMMParty where mentees will be tweeting based on a different prompt each day as a way to get to know each other. I also recommend my sub-reddit: www.reddit.com/r/YAwriters/. We're a great community (of indie and trad-pub YA authors) and our Wiki has some helpful archives of topics and AMAs that you may find helpful. I also recommend checking out my Wattpad link in the description. I started posting an advice series there (a lot of topics are repeated on KZbin). And I'm also eventually going to do a Trad Pub 101 video, which will hopefully help :)

[@dcle944]

Which genres do well in indie?

[@lazarusgray1188]

I self a published a novel in 2016. It cost me zero dollars to get the book written and up on the platform, and I thought that was so cool... Then I read the book back after enough time had passed, and was very glad that I'd spent as much on marketing as I did on editing, cover creation and publishing. It's sold maybe 30 copies since it was released, half of them to me to pass on to friends. So, obviously, writing even a good first draft and just slapping it up there is a bad idea. I started a complete re-write 4 weeks ago, and it's turning into what it should have been, but the fact it's been self-published, even in another form and with a different title and undeveloped story arc, means I won't be able to pitch it. I have another series of novellas which are clean (in terms of exposure) so I'll use that idea to pitch, but the novel will have to remain a self-published venture. I have more of a clue about marketing now, so it'll probably do better when I eventually release it. It can't do much worse, anyway.

[@Themoment888]

I'd rather do traditional because I want my book to have a longer reach than going through the self publish process

[@SimPilotMika]

As a reader, I always stay away from anything I suspect is self published. I don’t trust them with my month of time, especially when I have to pay for it too

[@thejunedempseyshow660]

@ 4:50 you say there are genres that do better in self-publishing, what would you say those genres are?

[@beautifulandmotivated3181]

Will it still take a long time if you’re trying to publish a short story?

[@lonepanther27]

I’m a fiction writer. I write sci-fi, science fantasy, fantasy, horror, mystery. Would it be better if I do self publishing or just seek for a book agent and go the traditional publishing route?

[@Luke-lq9rn]

It depends on the age demographic. Do you write Childrens, Middle Grade, Young Adult, New Adult or Adult?

[@janenightreadsandwrites223]

Self publishing def isnt for everyone. I love having a business so it is a good match for me. I started self publishing about 5 yrs ago. I write romance but am in very specific niche genres so trad publishing wasnt really something I could imagine doing because honestly not many places are pubbling what I write. My one niche that does pretty well has only 1 publisher I know of that publishes it and my books arent quite a match. I am prolific, which helps but am still not earning full time income adequate to support a family. I do think about going hybrid someday if I write something more conventional but I have also done my own thing so long I am kinda worried that trad will be a let down. I am in a writing group with a few trad authors and their experiences were really mixed. It is def good to access your skill set and know what you want and what works well for who you are.

[@saikrish655]

honest response! Good for you ☺

[@saikrish655]

Actually I have a doubt... The genre am writing is erotica (like 50 shades of grey...but not that BDSM thing but sensual one especially for women audiences ) and I really don't think traditional publishing houses would take this in... I don't really have any money problems and I can afford self publishing but am concerned about the reach.. Am afraid that my book may get lost in all the noise online... Is there a solution to bring this into spot light??

[@nelsona3468]

What genres tend to do best when self-published?

[@paulskertich9345]

Oh! I forgot to ask. Since you've gained some reputation with your publisher, and your new novel is coming out next year. Is your advanced much higher than your debut novel's advance check?

[@AlexaDonne]

I was acquired in a two book deal, so the amount for my second book was set when they bought my first one. Typically, your advance for subsequent books only goes up if you are a bestseller. Most authors get the same or a lower advance on subsequent books.

[@paulskertich9345]

Thanks for the awesome response. Keep up the awesome job, Alexa. :) When the missus gets paid this week, I'll help a fellow author out by getting your book. Maybe i'll get be better ideas for sci-fi and better world building ideas.

[@thebrokentypewriter9373]

Hey Alexa, is it possible to work with a publishing company if you don't have the book or books written yet? I ask since I only have notes on a series I want to do, but I don't have an agent or a publisher.

[@emmettowl]

For fiction and as a debut author, you need to have written the book before you get an agent or publisher, in almost all cases. (Exceptions include if you are already famous.)

[@lindaweedmark6025]

I frankly don't even know. I'm writing a lot of risque, adult material within a thriller and just don't know if it wouldn't be best self-published. Is it possible to put it out there for free and then get offers from editors to write other materials?

[@Luke-lq9rn]

Adult Thrillers seem to do really well with Self-Publishing, so if you can write fast and in a series I'd say go for it! www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/authors/pw-select/article/70996-the-rise-of-indie-crime-novels.html

[@lizplanslife8748]

I am confused as to what you mean by "commercial fiction." Your videos are the first time i've heard that term.

[@AlexaDonne]

There's commercial fiction and there is literary fiction--literary fiction puts the artistry first (these books tend to emphasize beautiful writing and don't have to adhere as strongly to typical plot structure or other "rules" of storytelling), whereas commercial fiction puts the reader first. Commercial fiction typically has broad appeal and/or high concepts, and it delivers to the reader what they want to read. What is commercial does vary by genre, but typically commercial novels don't get lost in purple prose, metaphor, meandering plots, etc.

[@johnpauldagondong2720]

How about romance, especially gay romance? Will it have a good shot in traditional publishing?

[@Pixiedusttina]

I have my first book and can’t decide what to do, so far it’s going to be through create space and amazon but I don’t know how to find a publisher.

[@AlexaDonne]

I have a video on how to be traditionally published that you might find useful. It provides a broad overview of the steps required. Might help you with your research!

[@mikemorris1217]

I self published with create space and it was super easy. Print on demand . You have to do a lot of advertising .

[@junehanabi1756]

Tons of self-publishing takes up shelf-space. It's often not as much shelf-space as traditional publishing but self-publishing doesn't mean you buy it on a Kindle or some online-only store. Many self-publishing companies have connections as well to places like Barnes and Noble, they'll send them a copy of the book and if they like it will add it to stores around the world. This applies to a number of physical book stores. It's not the same as traditional publishing but I feel there was a ton of misinformation implied in this video.

[@theloneowl1]

You gave a thorough and well-reasoned presentation here. I (truly) wish you the best of luck with your debut sales...but after a few books, you might want to reconsider some of your points--like giving your agent 15%. Make sure you invoke the audit clause down the road; if the agency drops you, then they were probably embezzling--and hoping you wouldn't notice. That's what happens when you let them handle all the money/paperwork before disbursing to you, rather than splitting checks at the publisher accounting department. It happens all the time, usually because writers can't be bothered. (And because THEIR agent is honest, and the exception, and of course their agent would never do that. And that may be true, but what about the agency's accountant? Trust, but verify. Even Lee Child has two full-time auditors.) Again, this is all down the road...

[@myteacherisaterroristthebo6615]

Great Observation! Couldn't agree with you more.

[@tzoneo8029]

I submitted my book (Christian non fiction). The book was accepted and I was given a publishing contract. But the only part of the contract I didn't like was that I was supposed to pay for the first 200 copies @ about $3,000. The name of the book publisher is Eurobooks. Have any Idea about Eurobooks' operation. What advice do you have for me. Thanks.

[@flourish1]

That sounds like a scam. You should never have to pay to publish your book.

[@cheyennegladfelter4221]

Hello, Would a poetry book be better if it's self-published? Or is traditional published?

[@AlexaDonne]

Poetry is a very difficult market in which to be traditionally published. The poets I know who have been have struggled for years in their local poetry "markets" (Los Angeles has a "scene") and then gotten a small "trad" deal with a poetry specific press (but I mean they do it b/c they love it!). I do believe there are magazines/publications to which you can submit poetry for publication, though. So poetry is its own beast... I'd try to find a professional poet to ask their advice (I think some may be kicking around on /r/writing on Reddit?). I'm sure self-publishing poetry works but I don't know how one reaches the audience.

[@cheyennegladfelter4221]

Thank you very much for answering! I appreciate it!

[@matthewpettipas8233]

As a Poet, I know many choose to traditionally publish, but for me, I like the control I have over my work, so I choose to self publish. True, distribution is a pain in the ass, but it's fun.

[@kaykirby7957]

What company do you recommend to a new author?

[@AlexaDonne]

Do you mean in terms of traditional publishing? In terms of publishing, it's not so much about the different pub companies but finding a reputable agent--their job is to know where to submit.

[@kaykirby7957]

Thank u

[@karzanmuhammed2362]

Hi Alexa, I want to get your recommendation regarding the publishing path. How can I contact you? Thanks

[@nathanaelmukyanga3866]

Can I do both ?

[@starrynight5207]

do some research on hybrid publishing

[@aging1847]

So for 2024, what are the genres that would be best for self publishing and you'd be stupid not to as you alluded to? I have a self-help book on money and spirituality.

[@NathanAponte]

Are your books available in bookstores?

[@AlexaDonne]

Yes. I am published by HMH (now a part of Harper Collins) and Random House.

[@NathanAponte]

@@AlexaDonne I will look for your books in Barnes and Noble