AFFORDABLE PATHS TO GETTING YOUR BOOK PUBLISHED

Traditional publishers are no longer the sole gatekeepers of the literary world. The rise of self-publishing empowers authors to bypass conventional hurdles and reach readers directly. Here are some top services. Smashwords is a popular ebook publication platform, enabling authors to create free ebooks and distribute them through retailers like Barnes and Noble, Apple iBooks, Sony, and Kobo. Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) for targeting Amazon is ideal. KDP allows authors to receive up to 70% royalties for ebooks priced between $2.99 and $9.99 in certain territories and 35% royalties for other ebooks. Print-on-demand services (POD), such as Lulu and Blurb, help authors format and design hardcover and softcover books. These can be purchased directly from the providers or other retailers. While not free, POD is excellent for specialty products and limited editions.