- Book Publishing Has Changed – The Playing Field is Level
Digital books have become a significant portion of the book marketplace, taking up almost a quarter of all books sold, and nearly half of adult fiction. Independently published books account for nearly a quarter of all ebook publishing dollars. According to Bookstat, Amazon accounts for at least 40% of all books sold and approximately 90% of ebook purchases. Today, any writer is able to distribute their books through Amazon’s KDP program, and leverage inexpensive marketing on the Amazon platform. Even more, the rapid developments in social media means that traditional publishing no longer has a monopoly on the reader base. Readers now go to Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter and other platforms to discover new great reads. If you ever wondered whether or not you could “get a book published,” the answer is undoubtedly, YES!
- Book Publishing is an Actual Business – Even “Self” Publishing
The term “self-publishing” used to mean poor quality and a lack of basic setup such as the distribution network that only traditional publishers formerly had access to. This is no longer the case – everyone now has access to the same resources, even freelance editors. All writers, are being increasingly required to take an active role in the marketing of their book and the financing of their platform – from website development to hiring supplemental PR reps. If you’re a writer and haven’t started to learn the business of being a publisher, especially how to market yourself and your book, you’re already a step behind!
- Book Publishing is one of the Easiest Ways to Become an Entrepreneur
With the growth of Amazon and the opening up of both Barnes and Noble and Ingram distribution to independent publishers, book publishing is one of the least expensive paths to create a passive income stream. Print-on-demand and ebook publishing have allowed independent writers and publishers to move forward without having to make the investment in inventory prior to even making their first sale. Once a book is published, for an independent publisher, an earning asset is created that can continue to generate revenue and create a legacy for years and years to come.
