Self-Publishing Resources

Look, this is way harder than I ever expected. Amazon didn't help people find my book, even after I had 1000 5-star reviews. My friends were less supportive than expected, and my local bookstores, libraries, etc don't really want my book. Every success I've had has been months or years in the making. It's honestly exhausting. So, do I recommend it as a career option, definitely not. BUT if you just want to hold a book in your hand (and don't need to make money), it's badass cool to be self-published, right? :)  AND yes, you can totally do it. Just be prepared for it to be harder than anticipated.

I'd look at www.Lulu.com

If you have a nonfiction book, I'd use Book Launchers. They have a great reputation and know what they're doing.   The Experts in Non-Fiction Publishing | Book Launchers 

www.BookBaby.com is another option if money is no object.

For children's books, I would find a graphic designer to handle the whole process. Be sure to get source files (packaged InDesign files) even if you have no idea how to use what that is—in case they ghost you. DM me for graphic designer recommendations.

Paperbacks and hardcovers over 72 pages can be published through Amazon (KDP). Ingram Spark is the most well-known resource for hardcovers. 

I publish on KDP, Ingram, and use Draft2Digital for wider distribution. 

I published on B&N and sold 1 book the first year.

My audio stories are on ACX, Findaway Voices, and AMPlify.

I self-taught myself InDesign. It took six months, several books, and many YouTube tutorials. 

People make books in Canva (Pro/paid Subscription Service) as well. There's software designed for non-pictured books on Kindlepreneur and Reedsy. 

If you're only doing a book or two, I definitely outsource.

Short answer, yes. Bowker www.myidentifiers.com

I've tried a bazillion marketing efforts. I've found the most effective to be Amazon ads, but I'm still losing money.

I recommend www.BookAwardPro.com (the lowest possible membership or free trial, you can enter yourself.) I think the main benefit is street cred and being able to say "award-winning". I don't think I've ever sold a book via a win, even as a well-honored author. 

StickerMule $10 Credit - I've been really happy with them for stickers, magnets, Tshirts, & flyers. 

Quick, great customer service. 

www.Vistaprint.com  I've heard many people recommend. 

www.Bestofsigns.com   I'm a satisfied customer 

StickerMule $10 Credit 

Complete BISAC Subject Headings List

Electronic Copyright Office (eCO)  Why yes, the usability is awful. It was the worst I'd ever experienced until I tried the PPBL Publisher Portal, then it was the #2 worst usability experience. 

PPBL Publisher Portal  - So, here's my BIG TIP - you can check to see whether your submission even went through. (Don't wait 6 months like I did - you're welcome.)

Goodreads - Yes I'm shamelessly sending you to my site so you can please follow me.

Canva  - A little tough to figure out initially, but everyone loves Canva.  BookBrush is similar with similar learning curve. 

HTML Color Codes  - Also, I recommend learning a little HTML. It will make your life easier. 

BookBub  - I'm undecided about whether any of the free ebook stuff is worth it as children's author.

I did it (myself) on GoDaddy. I don't necessarily recommend them.  I've heard some folks recommend Wix.com.

Many people use MailerLite. ConvertKit is also popular.

Canopy (most places, you need your own) 

Wagon or Dolly

Chairs

Tables

Signs

Price Sheets

Giveaways

Book Display

Square Up Card Reader

Paypaly/Venmo QR Codes

Calculator

Books

Pens

Giveaways

Tablecloth

Anker Charger/Cable

I like to wear an "I'm the Author" shirt.

Thinking that when things go wrong it was my fault. It was usually not - Amazon has had a surprising number of glitches.  

Also, don't waste time on the book community on Social Media. Instagram/Facebook/TikTok are amazing for connecting - I'd go straight for the dance community and other related industries if I had it to do over.