For a first-time author, self-publishing can feel a little daunting. As a publisher, I am used to working with authors, walking them through the process step-by-step, and helping to make sure the books they publish live up to their expectations.

When an author—even one who has been published before—takes on the role of publisher, as is the case with self-publishing, it is vital that he or she is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of the publishing process. That’s why I wrote Who Knows 9? The Essential Guide to Self-Publishing. In nine short chapters, I describe all of the stages of publishing—from writing a manuscript to distributing a printed book—so that the self-publisher will understand how to navigate the process.

Obviously, I couldn’t put everything into one little guide. Each stage is a world of its own, with professionals who dedicate their lives to perfecting it.

There’s a Lot to Learn

My goal in this blog is to explore the process even more thoroughly than I did in the guide. I will delve into each stage with greater detail, presenting in layman’s terms the pros and cons for the various choices facing the new self-publisher.

Over time, this blog will become a resource for authors like you to find the best way to achieve their publishing goals, so check back often. I’d also like to invite you to send me any questions you might have about publishing your book. If there’s something about self-publishing that you’re wondering about, I’ll help you find the answers in a blog post.

If you have anything to add to the conversation, I hope you will comment on these posts. I’ll be reading and moderating each comment, which is why you might notice a short delay before you see yours posted. I’m looking forward to a lively and courteous discussion from people with a variety of publishing experience in the comments (it’s not a place for promoting yourself or your work, though).

In the next blog post, we’ll answer the million-dollar question: What is self-publishing?

Sincerely,

Eliyahu Miller,

Owner and managing editor,

JewishSelfPublishing