Since 1999, we have been helping authors package and self-publish books using the latest in print-on-demand technology. Our books are printed and shipped from Lightning Source located in the USA and U.K., and available globally via Amazon.com and other major distributors. Or we can provide coaching tips so you can self-publish your work.

STEPS TO PUBLISHING:

1. Finish your manuscript. Most everyone has a book they want to write. Put your content into chapters, select photos and illustrations, do your research. Then type everything into a Word file, print it out, and revise it some more until your are happy. Once you have done this, it must be edited by someone other than yourself. No author can catch all their own errors! Keep an open mind and welcome constructive criticism which will make your final book a quality product.

2. Contact Us.  Arrange a free consultation for a review of your project goals. Learn your options for printing as well as distribution and marketing. This is when you identify your target audience and create your budget! An author biography must be written. This is also when your early marketing must start, and 'galley' copies of your unpublished manuscript are sent out for professional reviews. You must also submit your work to the copyright office. If you have a superior product or a well- established name, you may be able to sell your rights to a large publisher or find an agent. But your royalties will be less than $1 per book sold. Print-on-demand (POD) publishing, on the other hand, costs less and pays you more. Learn what to look for and what to avoid when finding publishing and distribution methods. If you use POD, you stay 'in the driver's seat' and in control of your book, and your royalties will average $3-5 per book sold.

3. Creation of 'Book File' and Cover. Visit a bookstore or library and find a book that has the size and feel of your desired finished product to serve as a model. Your manuscript is now ready to be transferred to a sophisticated file using InDesign, PhotoShop, PageMaker, and other software programs. Photos and illustrations will be 'manipulated' into high-resolution images and inserted. A cover will be created. You will be assigned an ISBN that will be used to identify your book internationally. Throughout this process, you will give feedback and co-create the book you envision!

4. Final editing and Proof. The book files must be edited professionally. References, reviews, and indexes (if used) must be double checked. One copy is printed and you will again review your work and have a last chance to make corrections and additions. 

5. Marketing. A marketing package is created, including a press release, fliers, order information, cover images, and book summaries that are sent to bookstores, distributors, and wholesalers worldwide. Special mailing lists can also be utilized to target your unique niche. Digital images and exerpts are uploaded on the web.

6. Publishing. Your digital, finalized files are uploaded to the printers, and your first order is made! With proper marketing, you can receive regular royalty checks from sales from all over the world. And your book need never go out of print.

 CONGRATULATIONS!! You could now be a published author!