Any opinions on Self Publishing such as Xulon?

[Mitch Haynie]

I am considering the self publisher called Xulan on my next project. Everything I have read about them seems to be good. The primary reasons are as follows:
1. I don't have an agent or know how to go about getting a good agent.

2. My non-fiction work is time critical and I know the standard publishing process is time consuming.

3. I have many speaking and training opportunities in which to promote my book so marketing is not as critical as in some cases.

Any opinions or experiences among my fellow witers about this?

Because of Him
Mitch

[gregholmes]

Mitch - It would stink to miss a great opportunity just by being in a rush. I like you have a great many opportunity to speak and have many contacts...I could self-publish my second book and have it out now, but in the long run is it best? I've been blessed to have signed with Destiny Image to have it published, but because of the marketing they put into it, it won't be out until next August...this gives the book the potential to go places I could never go or market to. Which in turn will open other speaking opportunities.

I have a friend who has published 7 books, her latest "Prayer In Another Dimension" was published by Xulon. She liked working with them, and was satisfied with the end product, but is not happy with the marketing side of things.

I can't help but think if you're going to self-publish Lulu.com seems to be the best bang for your buck - If you're putting your hard work into publishing and marketing, why spend money up front? However, I don't know what the price is at Xulon, I've never researched it.

Hope this helps! All the best in your endeavors.

[DrRita]

Mitch. Greg is right. Don't be in such a rush to give your hard earned money to a vanity press. If you are planning on being a writer, you need to learn how to write and to get an agent. I see you found the thread, "Book Publishing," and I certainly hope you heed the advice in that thread. Especially what WG Jones said.

[AnnieJ]

Mitch - nobody wants to wait to see a book in print. But quality takes time. I've said it a lot around here but writing is a small business, for some a big business, and must be approached as such. Put yourself in a position for your business to succeed by not rushing to a solution before trying to make the contacts (agent) and contracts (publishers) that can mean the difference between that small (or non existent) and big business.

If you have a good subject matter and a clean manuscript then begin the search for an agent - This is the time of year that the new/updated Writer's Markets appear, so grab a copy and make some notes. Also do some work online - lots of agent info at places like agentquery.com, (now suddenly my mind goes blank of course!)

Having opportunities to promote your work will appeal to publishers, esp with non-fic, too.

Self-publishing can work for specific situations but most of us need the support, expertise and connections, not to mention the financial perks of being paid, earning royalties.

annie jones (Sisterhood of the Queen Mamas - out now - "Engaging... Laugh out loud funny." Publisher's Weekly)