Different Strokes for Different Folks

What are some points to consider as you’re trying to decide whether and how to publish your manuscript?

Are you ready to compete with the big guys?

If you’ve–

• spent a good deal of time studying the craft of writing
• written about 10,000 hours (more on this later)
• taken your manuscript through a critique process
• entered a few contests and done well

you may be ready to submit a query or proposal to an editor or agent of a major publishing house. (If you don’t know what a query or proposal ARE, you’re not quite ready.  *wink*) As we’ve said, competition is stiff, but there’s always room at the top.

But what if your project is intended for a smaller audience?

• A collection of family stories you’d like to preserve and share
• A book to accompany a school project
• A special interest book such as a cookbook compiled by your church or family members
• A photo album
• An experimental first story
• A project that appeals to a limited niche market (ie. a homeschool curriculum, how-to manual, or book designed for hobbyists)

There are any number of reasons to explore self-publishing as long as you are realistic about the advantages and disadvantages. Do some thinking about who your readers might be!