While many authors choose to self-publish independently, full-service self-publishing services play a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the self-publishing journey.
But what exactly can a full-service self-publishing service do for you, the author?
While I can’t speak for all services, I can offer insights from Writers on The Move Self-Publishing Service (WOTMSP).
Since WOTMSP is the source of this information and some things are specific to the service, I’ve replaced ‘full-service self-publishing services’ with WOTMSP in this article.
Here are 12 things WOTMSP can do for self-publishing children’s authors (and there’s a bonus feature):
1. Personalization
One of the most important things WOTMSP does is personalize the process. You deal directly with the owner. There is 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 client emails and phone calls go directly to the owner as part of the personalized service from the beginning to the end of the project. The owner 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
WOTMSP wants to help you produce quality books for two reasons:
A. To satisfy you, the author.
B. To build a professional and quality reputation as a self-publishing service.
To ensure a quality reputation, WOTMSP will take extra care to ensure everything is done right, from the story to the illustrations to the book’s interior and covers.
4. Minor Editing
While it’s best to have a professionally edited manuscript before thinking of self-publishing, WOTMSP will make minor edits for manuscripts under 1000 words free of charge.
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.
There may be a small fee if the manuscript is longer or needs extensive edits.
5. Illustrations
-If you have your own illustrations, WOTMSP will review them to make sure they’re ready for the next phase. If any edits are needed, WOTMSP will notify you.
WOTMSP checks for consistency, text-to-illustration accuracy, and proper spacing for text, proportions, and more.
-If you need illustrations, WOTMSP will discuss the cost of the illustrator and hire the right one for the project.
WOTMSP will work directly with the illustrator, reviewing the illustrations and checking for the same elements mentioned above, requesting edits if needed.
You will get copies of the illustrations to review and offer input.
6. Formatting, Design, Production
Handling the production process is another key responsibility of a full-service self-publishing service, and WOTMSP collaborates with a highly talented and professional formatter/designer. Ensuring everything goes smoothly takes timely communication with all parties involved in the project. WOTMSP will handle all communications.
Book covers and formatting contribute significantly to a book’s professional appearance and marketability.
In addition, the formatter/designer ensures that the book’s print and eBook versions are produced with high-quality standards, meeting the requirements of different publishing formats.
WOTMSP focuses on producing a professional book, from the interior formatting to the cover designs. The service also helps with the front matter and back matter of the book.
7. PDF Review
WOTMSP will review the PDFs the formatter/designer provides, request revisions if needed, and review each revised PDF.
Each PDF is sent to the client for review.
8. Help with Pricing, Returns, Discounts
WOTMSP will advise on pricing the book and whether to allow returns and discounts.
9. ISBNs
WOTMSP advises you on how to get ISBNs if needed.
ISBN is an acronym for The International Standard Book Number. It’s a 13-digit number that uniquely identifies books and book-like products published internationally.
There’s a lot more information on ISBNs here:
Self-Publishing: Why Use Your Own ISBNs
https://karencioffiwritingforchildren.com/2024/08/25/self-publishing-why-use-your-own-isbns/
10. Inputting Metadata in the Distributor’s / Retailer’s Service
WOTMSP understands 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.
Here is an example of the most recent picture book I helped self-publish, Mindful Molly Jumps, Shoots, and Scores! by Robert Facchini:
While the book is 1,612,534 in best sellers rank, the total number of books for sale through Amazon is almost 33 million as of January 2023. But notice the keyword and category statistics—they’re pretty good.
WOTMSP also inputs book pricing, return status, and discounts.
11. Uploading and Final Review
Once the print-ready files are approved, WOTMSP will upload them to Amazon for paperback and ebooks and IngramSpark for hardcovers; then the Review Copy will be reviewed before publishing.
Getting the book into various online and physical distributors and retailers increases its accessibility to a broader audience.
And that’s it. Your book will be available for sale with minimal effort.
12. One-Stop-Shopping
Whether you have a polished manuscript or not, WOTMSP does it all. If you need help with your story, our sister service, Karen Cioffi Writing for Children, can handle it.
13. Book Marketing (Bonus Feature)
Even though your book is available for sale at this point, without knowing how to promote it, it won’t sell.
To help remedy that, WOTMSP gives clients the DIY Creating an Author Online Platform ebook to help them navigate the book marketing arena. It’s also available as an e-course if you need extra help.
You will also receive a book review on Amazon and Goodreads.
Summing It Up
In the self-publishing world, self-publishing services serve as invaluable partners for authors seeking professional assistance, guidance, and a higher level of polish.
Self-publishing services can empower authors to create quality books and reach a wider audience by offering editing through 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 Self-Publishing Service would love to discuss your project with you.
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, rewriter, 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:
HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN'S FICTION BOOK
A DIY book to help you write your own children’s book.
PICTURE BOOK, CHAPTER BOOK, MIDDLE GRADE COACHING
Four to twelve-week coaching programs.
WRITERS ON THE MOVE SELF-PUBLISHING SERVICE
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.)
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