Questions from Self Publishers

Q: I just published my first book and now I need to start selling it. I designed it myself and my friend edited it. Everybody who reads it absolutely loves it, so I know there's a huge market for it. I can't get a distributor though and some of the bookstores have turned me down. What more do I need?

A: A reality check. First, if you are not a book designer, then you shouldn't be designing a book. Second, your friend is not an editor, and therefore, should not be editing your book. Third, I'd be willing to bet that "everybody" who loves your book is your brother, aunt, cousin, next door neighbor and assorted other people who are too afraid to tell you the truth for fear of bursting your bubble. Repeat after me everybody "I should not, and will not, design or edit my own book unless I am a professional designer or editor". Start over, do it right.