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Self-publishing: Trials and triumphs
By ALongLook in The Write Stuff
August 27, 2008

I had to laugh as I overheard a discussion of a story we were considering about a local author who self-published a book. I wasn't laughing at the author or his book, just the comments some were making about those who choose to self publish.

I recall when I decided to "independently publish" a couple of books -- a collection of poetry and short stories and a collection of 20 years worth of newspaper columns. At the time I had the money and decided to go for it.

I remember being told that most people who self-publish end up with cases of their books in their garage, stuck with a product they can't sell for years after the printing.

"That's not going to happen to me," I thought. Well, after some initial success the first few months - I think I sold almost 30 copies my first book signing. I was stoked -- then sales slowed...to...a...stand...still.

Amazon.com still has the books listed, but I'm not sure they actually have any in stock.  But I do. Cases of them.

I actually sold a few a couple of months ago during the Third Saturday acoustic jam at the Courtyard Gallery in Cuero, and donated the proceeds to the local chapter of the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

So, I guess I'm still getting some good from the sales. Initially, they sold for $7.95 and $9.95...now, I'm letting them go for cost...$3 for one or both volumes for $5. What a deal The phones are ringing now!

I guess the lesson here is not to deter you from self-publishing, but to just consider how many you print at one time. Maybe hundreds instead of thousands. Either that or have a big garage.

Keep writing!

www.SonnyLong.com