To Self-pub or NOT to Self-Pub

that is the real question, isn't it?

For years, self-published writers got a bad rap (and many of them deserved it), but the publishing world is changing. BUT I don't think someone who is a new writer should immediately self-publish. 

Why?

Because they aren't ready and, more importantly, their work isn't ready. (Of course there are always exceptions to broad statements like this one)

Just because you write a book it doesn't mean everyone in the world should see it.  So many first books are dreck.  If they aren't dreck, then they've been overworked, critted to death, or simply in need of a single shot blowing it into shreds.  So many writers need to write hundreds of thousands of words to even get a clue who they are as a writer.  One book ain't gonna do it.

Personally, I have four 90-100 K word novels and 10 picture books sitting under the proverbial bed, AKA the hard drive.  And this isn't including my current middle grade stuff.  It is a rare writer who can write something that is publishable first time around.  It takes time and many, many words to hone your craft, find your writing voice and style, and TO LEARN THE BUSINESS OF PUBLISHING.

Way too many writers are just so anxious to see their name in print or to say they're a published author that they forget there is more to this business than simply writing a story.  There is also something to be said for having a pile of rejections in your files. 

Why?

It allows you time to develop a T-rex thick skin.  Rejection happens get used to it.  Instead of agents and editors rejecting your stuff, it's bad reviews, trollish comments, or whatever.

Another key to self-publishing is to get as many books out there in a reasonable time frame.  If someone likes your story, then they want to buy another story.  HAVE THAT NEXT STORY READY. 

How long did it take you to write your first story?  One year?  Five years?  How long will it take for you to write the second story? 

My first story took over two years to write.  The second one took about eight months.  Some of the middle grade stuff doesn't take as long to write, but it does take time. 

So to that end, I must go and work on my next Kyte Webber story:  She might have won the battle in LOST LEPRECHAUN LOOT, it doesn't mean the leprechauns aren't contemplating revenge. . .

Later, Peeps

Due to my own stupid incompetence , Lost Leprechaun Loot, has been delayed going up on Kindle.  And yes, I was severely reprimanded by my writing friend, Edie Ramer.  Let's just say that it was up, but I managed to give myself a double last name.  So as soon as I was able, I took it down to fix my errors, delaying its release.