The Road to Publication

Greatlander received favorable responses on the Faith article I wrote last month; so my nephew again graciously requested I write another article for July’s issue.  I had more confidence this time, and approached their July’s theme, the Road Less Traveled, with thoughtfulness and research rather than a blank mind and fear of failure.  I really enjoyed writing it too.  It inspired me to take the next step for my devotional.  I have signed a contract with Publication Consultants to publish my book.  I feel comfortable with them because they are local, were recommended by the founder of Alaska Writer’s Guild, and based on my contact with them since October 2012, I believe the company’s Christianity is authentic, not a marketing tool.

They are not a ‘traditional’ publisher like Thomas Nelson; instead, they are considered assisted publishing rather than self-publishing.  After researching and learning about the three options, regardless of which one I went with, I discovered I will have to do most of the marketing myself.  That surprised me on traditional publishing.  They not only get the rights for the book (authors keep their rights with assisted or self-publishing), but traditional publishers do not make a lot of effort in marketing except for big name authors.  So their investment can be as limited as they choose, yet, mine will be about the same in any scenario.  Therefore, since I will be doing most the work anyway, I think assisted publishing is the best option for me. Publication Consultants will provide me with expertise in the publishing world, education on how to market my book along with providing some opportunities like book signings, and, quite important, manage the printing and distribution of the actual books.  It’s going to cost me in finances, time, patience; however, I know the Lord will provide as the need arises.  I feel a peace that this is what God wants me to do, and having that peace gives me confidence to forge forward into the unknown.

This is what the Lord says: Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.  Jeremiah 6:16.