Self-publishing, while empowering, presents a complex landscape for authors. The journey from manuscript to published book involves critical decisions that can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, book shepherds—experienced consultants—have emerged to guide authors through each stage of the process. These professionals offer invaluable assistance, ensuring a smoother and more successful self-publishing experience.
So, what exactly does a book shepherd do? Their services encompass a wide range of areas, including cover and interior design, manuscript editing, printer negotiation, production oversight, distribution strategies, marketing, and publicity. Some book shepherds operate within full-service firms, managing every aspect of the process. Others work independently, connecting authors with trusted experts in specific fields.
The benefits of partnering with a book shepherd are numerous. They not only enhance the quality of the final product but also significantly increase the chances of publishing success. Ellen Reid of Smarketing-Infinite Possibilities emphasizes that a book shepherd’s role extends beyond mere book production. She sees herself as a creative director, assembling a team of talented professionals—copywriters, editors, and designers—to bring the author’s vision to life.
Book shepherds save authors valuable time and prevent costly mistakes. Simon Warwick-Smith, president of Warwick Associates, notes that self-publishing is a complex business. Engaging a book shepherd allows authors to leverage existing expertise, avoiding years of independent learning. Cynthia Frank, president of Cypress House, helps clients define their publishing goals, whether it’s achieving strong Amazon sales or securing a traditional publishing deal. She then develops tailored plans to align those goals with concrete steps.
Frank also highlights the importance of understanding self-publishing jargon. Book shepherds clarify complex terminology and guide authors through registration and distribution options, helping them determine the best sales channels for their books. Planning is essential. Book shepherds advise authors to create a formal business plan before writing, treating self-publishing as a serious business venture.
Furthermore, book shepherds often possess valuable industry connections and proven marketing strategies. Gail Kearns of To Press and Beyond leverages her relationships with national distributors to get books into the right hands. Ultimately, a skilled book shepherd saves authors time, money, and potential disappointment.
To maximize the benefits of working with a book shepherd, preparation is key. Barbara Denise Files, author of “Ballet Secrets for Skaters,” emphasizes the importance of thorough research. Before hiring Marilyn Ross, Files studied her newsletters and posed targeted questions. She then prepared a mission statement, demographic information, and specific questions about her project.
Files believes that a book shepherd serves as a valuable sounding board, providing professional feedback and enabling informed decisions. To ensure a cost-effective experience, she recommends networking with other self-publishers, joining writers’ clubs, and educating oneself on the self-publishing landscape before seeking professional guidance. By formulating a clear plan and specific questions, authors can make the most of their consulting sessions.
Ultimately, the more effort invested upfront, the greater the rewards of working with a book shepherd. Their expertise can significantly increase an author’s chances of self-publishing success.
**Expert Tips for Self-Publishing Success:**
* **Simon Warwick-Smith:** “Self-publishing is an expensive, all-or-nothing venture. Don’t try to publish on a shoestring. If you can’t afford to do it right, don’t do it.”
* **Simon Warwick-Smith:** “Plan ahead. With a glutted market of 120,000 new books annually, know your approach. Seek expert help on cover, content, and page design before printing.”
* **Cynthia Frank:** “Hire a professional book cover designer. The cover is crucial; it must scan well in black and white, be clear at various heights, fit its genre, and stand out in quality.”
* **Cynthia Frank:** “Approach book publishing like a business plan: plan what you’ll do yourself and what you’ll hire out. Avoid doing everything yourself or hiring everything out.”
* **Ellen Reid:** “The look, feel, and copywriting on the cover are critical. They represent the author and give the book the best chance of success.”
* **Ellen Reid:** “To compete in the $2.2 billion industry, your product must match the quality of traditional publishing houses.”
* **Patty Weckbaugh:** “If you do it all yourself, your book will look like you did it all yourself.”