What is Christian self publishing?
Many Christian books self publish. A Christian book self-publisher is an author who chooses to bypass the traditional Christian publishing houses and publish his or her own book. A Christian self-publisher controls all aspects of the book, but also bears all the costs. Normally, a Christian self publishing service or company will be used to actually print the book; often, these companies offer design templates for the interior layout and the exterior cover design.
Why self-publish?
Many Christian authors choose self publishing because they simply cannot find a traditional Christian publishing house to pick up their book. Others have been published by traditional Christian publishers, but were unsatisfied with the experience. Some authors choose self publishing because they want more control over the publishing process for their own book-they love the freedom of self publishing books.
Advantages of self-publishing Christian material.
- Freedom. You control your manuscript, including timelines, editing, design, and marketing and sales.
- You own the copyrights to your Christian material, so you don't have to worry about copyright disputes or a publisher going out of business.
- It is possible to earn more money per book sold.
Disadvantages of self-publishing Christian material.
- You are responsible for all costs in producing, marketing, and selling your Christian publication.
- No monetary advances; no guarantee you'll earn back your initial investment on your publication.
- You alone are responsible for handling copyright infringement or other legal challenges related to the publication.
How to self-publish.
- Complete the writing of your Christian material. Do your own editing, or hire a professional editor.
- Choose a self publishing service tailored to Christian publications. Many are ready and waiting; choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
- Get the manuscript printed. Send your manuscript to the self publishing company-usually, this is through email.
- Market and sell your Christian publication, using any creative means necessary.
There are books and resources to help you with self-publishing in the Christian industry. Here are some of the best ones:
Christian Writer's Market Guide: The Reference Tool for the Christian Writer. The only writer's guide written exclusively for the Christian market-the twentieth edition of this reference guide includes information on agents, editors, publisher guidelines, specialty markets, and more
An outline of the benefits of Christian book self publishing can be found at www.christian-book-publishing-info.com/self-publishing-advantages.html
Excellent directories of Christian self publishing services and companies can be found on the Internet:
www.christianet.com/christianbusinesses/christianbooks/selfpublishing/
Google's directory of self publishing services and companies: Self Publishing
Yahoo's directory of self publishing services and companies: Self Publishing
