Publishers come in all shapes, sizes, and prices. While many authors choose to self-publish independently, small publishers play a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the self-publishing journey. But what exactly can a small publisher do for you, the children's author? While I can’t speak for all small publishers, I can offer insights from Writers On The Move Press (WOTMP). Since WOTMP is the source of the information as a small publisher and some things are specific to the service, I've replaced 'small publishers' with it in some instances. 10 THINGS A SMALL PUBLISHER CAN DO FOR SELF-PUBLISHING CHILDREN'S AUTHORS: 1. Personalization One of the most important things WOTMP does is personalize the process. You deal directly with the owner. There’s no go-between or chance of a different handler taking over the account. You can be assured that any concerns are addressed promptly. 2. Communications All emails and phone calls go directly to the owner as part of the personalized service. WOTMP will know what’s going on with the project at all times. There is no go-between - no need for the correct extension or name of the representative or salesperson you’re dealing with. 3. Quality Control WOTMP wants to produce quality books for two reasons: A. To satisfy you, the author. B. To create and build a professional and quality reputation. This means WOTMP will take extra care to ensure everything is done right. 3. Editing and Proofreading While it’s best to have a professionally edited manuscript in hand before thinking of self-publishing, small publishers usually offer an editing service. WOTMP will make minor edits free of charge for picture books. This is to ensure your work is polished and error-free. It’s a crucial step for maintaining the quality and credibility of the book. The market is very competitive; you’ll want your book to stand out. WOTMP may charge a small fee if the manuscript is longer or needs extensive edits. 4. Illustrations -If you have your own illustrations, WOTMP will review them to make sure they’re ready for the next phase. If any revisions are needed, you will be notified. Consistency, text-to-illustration accuracy, and proper spacing for text, among other things are reviewed. -If illustrations are needed, the cost will be discussed and the right illustrator will be hired for the project. WOTMP works directly with the illustrator, reviewing the illustrations, and checking for consistency, text space, text-to-illustration accuracy, etc. You get copies of the illustrations to review and offer input. 5. Formatting, Design, Production Handling the production process is another key responsibility of the small publisher, and WOTMP collaborates with a highly talented and professional formatter/designer. Book covers and formatting contribute significantly to a book's marketability. In addition, the formatter/designer ensures that both print and eBook versions of the book are produced with high-quality standards, meeting the requirements of different publishing formats. This means WOTMP is responsible for producing a professional book, from the interior formatting to the cover designs. 6. Review WOTMP will review the PDFs the formatter/designer provides, requesting revisions if needed and reviewing each revised PDF. Each PDF is sent to the author for review. 7. Communications Ensuring everything goes smoothly takes timely communication with all parties involved in the project. WOTMP handles all communications. 8. Help with Pricing, Returns, Discounts Small publishers advise on pricing the book and whether to allow returns and discounts. 9. Inputting Metadata in the Distributor’s / Retailer’s Service Small publishers understand the importance of metadata in making a book discoverable online. Optimized metadata such as keywords, categories, and book descriptions enhance the book's visibility on online platforms, making it easier for potential readers to find. Book pricing, return status, and discounts are also input. 10. Uploading and Final Review Once the print-ready files are approved, they will be uploaded, then the Review Copy will be reviewed before publishing to distributors. Getting the book into various online and physical distributors and retailers increases its accessibility to a broader audience. Some small publishers upload the print-ready files to distribution services, such as Amazon, some do not. Writers on the Move Press uploads to Amazon for paperback and eBooks and to IngramSpark for hardcover books. And that’s it. Your book will be available for sale with minimal effort. Summing It Up In the self-publishing world, small publishers serve as invaluable partners for authors seeking professional assistance, guidance, and a higher level of polish. Small publishers empower self-publishing authors to achieve their goals creating a quality book and reaching a wider audience by offering editing to distribution. If you have a picture book or simple chapter book manuscript that you’d like to self-publish but need help, Writers on the Move Press would love to discuss your project with you.
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, editor, and coach. I can help turn your story into a book you’ll be proud to be the author of, one that’s publishable and marketable.
OTHER HELP I OFFER:
FICTION WRITING FOR CHILDREN COURSE
A guided self-study course and mentoring program.
HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN’S FICTION BOOK
A DIY book to help you write your own children’s book.
WRITERS ON THE MOVE PRESS.
Self-publishing help for children’s authors.
You can contact me at: kcioffiventrice@gmail.com. Or give me a call at 347—834—6700. (Please leave a message- I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.)