From Car Trunk to Big Screen: Self-Publishing

By Jim Barnes - Aug 04 , 2007

Nobody likes rejection.

Unfortunately for today’s unpublished author, rejection is a fact of life.

Even the most successful authors have horror stories about the numerous rejections they’ve endured. As major publishers become larger and more bestseller-oriented, unknown authors find it more and more difficult to get a contract. The success of Print-On-Demand publishing companies is testament to this frustration, but the POD route comes with its own set of problems, and it’s paved with ugly books and pathetic sales figures.

Self-publishing is another solution many authors turn to when they get the Rejection Slip Blues. Done properly, self-published books look as good or better than royalty-published books. Especially if you hire expert help, self-publishing your book is fairly easy to accomplish–it’s selling your book that’s hard. The self-publisher must become an expert marketer and promoter.

The odds of achieving bestseller status are long, but hey! What have you got to lose, besides your time, money, and self-esteem?

It does happen. Long shots do win, and the world of arts and entertainment loves original ideas, new talent, and fresh voices.

Who knows–maybe your book will get discovered and end up being made into a big blockbuster holiday movie!