Should I pursue traditional publishing for this book? This is one of the most common questions writers ask. The answer is almost always, “It depends.”
What does it depend on? That is what I will discuss in this episode of the Christian Publishing Show.
But first, a quick personal update.
Pros of Traditional Publishing
- The publisher edits, packages, and markets the book.
- Gatekeepers help protect your reputation.
- The three Cs
- Capital (Once you sign a contract, you get an advance)
- Credibility
- Contacts
- Surrounded by Professionals
- Agent
- Editor
- Cover Designer
- Sales People
- Marketing People
- PR
- Placement in Physical Bookstores
- Most awards are for traditionally published authors only.
- Matthew Principle-Based Marketing Investment
Cons of Traditional Publishing
- Matthew-Principle Based Marketing Investment
- Gatekeepers can prevent you from being published.
- You make between 80¢ and $1 per book.
- You lack control
- No marketing data
- Slow Process
- You Get Paid Slowly
Bottom Line:
- Great if your novel has a broad market appeal.
- Better for general nonfiction.
- Better if you care more about reaching people.
- Better for poor authors.
Featured Christian Writers Institute Course
Whether submitting your book idea to an agent or an editor, you want your proposal to stand out. In this audio presentation, literary agent, Steve Laube, outlines the basic elements of an effective book proposal.
Bonus Content:
- Sample Proposal Templates
- a Proposal Checklist
- and more
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