Today I’d like to write about Indie Authors and their place in modernity. I am an Indie author, myself, so this is a subject I am passionate about. I want to touch on topics associated with self-publishing and traditional publishing, laying out the pros and cons of both, dispel myths and misconceptions about indie authors, and hopefully open a few minds of those who think only traditionally published authors are legitimate. As an indie author, I must admit a bit of bias, but as I always do, I shall write as objectively as I can.

So, you’ve written your masterpiece and are exploring which is right for you: traditional or self-publishing. If you’re not interested in participating in the business side of things; if you just want to create and leave the business end of it to others, then traditional publishing may be the way you want to go. Pros: You write, others take care of the business. Well, sort of. Don’t fool yourself into thinking you won’t have to do anything to promote your book. The publisher will expect you to be involved to a certain degree, especially on the promotional side. They will in fact ask you what you plan to do to help promote your book. Some other benefits to traditional publishing are: the prestige factor, industry connections, monetary advances, mass market production, and easier access to brick and mortar stores to sell your book.

Cons: You do not have complete control of your novel or whatever it is you are writing. Since the house is putting up the money, they will want a say in the creation of the book. It’s an investment, and if the book doesn’t sell well enough, they may not get the return they want on their investment. To you, it’s about the art; to them, it’s about making money. Just like any other business. Other cons: Just because the book is traditionally published, it doesn’t guarantee success. But, you will be able to put a proverbial feather in your cap so you can brag that your book was published traditionally through a name house. Another con in my view is you don’t own the copyright, although you can contract so that it reverts after you after “one time publishing rights” expire. If you’re okay with that, that’s up to you. Just be careful what rights you sell away. Example: Maybe one day you want to sell TV rights, or movie rights, or character merchandizing. Be careful how you go about it. You might make more selling off rights individually than with a package deal.

Self Publishing. Pros: you have total artistic control; you own the copyright from day one. If you decide to sell the rights, some or all, be careful. Someone wanting to buy the rights to your work does NOT have your best interests in mind. Other pros: If you’re business savvy or enjoy the business side of things, you are the best qualified person to decide what happens with your intellectual property. Cons: if you’re not business savvy or do not like the idea of running things, it could prove problematic unless you know people who can help. In my own career, I do have decent business sense and also know people who can help if I need it.

Stigma, Misconceptions, and Myths: People in the traditional publishing community generally think they are a cut above indie authors. They, somehow, are supposed to be better writers than self-published ones. There is a certain level of snobbery. Their view is that the indie author isn’t good enough…that their talent level falls short. While I do think there is a certain prestige that goes along with being published through a traditional publishing house, I do not agree with the belief that they are somehow better writers. I have read many traditionally published novels that ended up in my DNF (do not finish) pile. On the other hand I have read many self-published novels that I read multiple times, and have a prominent place on my bookshelf. Some were best sellers.

That’s all I have to say today. Feel free to like or comment. I am always interested in the thoughts and opinions of others. Thank you for reading! Until next time…

Ray