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You’ve decided to write a book – congratulations! You are entering a world where words are your sword, coffee is your shield, and editing will be the dragon you slay – continually.

The path to publishing is full of creativity, collaboration, and—let’s be real—a few headaches. Whether you’re aiming for the New York Times Best Seller List or just want to share your story with the world (or at least your mom – I love you mom), follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the next great author. Or, at the very least, you’ll have a book.

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I chose to self-publish for several reasons:

• Self-publishing allowed me to tell the story exactly how I envisioned it, while maintaining control over the publishing timeline.
• I wanted the flexibility to share the book with any school or bookstore and to manage my own schedule for events.
• I felt confident in my ability to promote and distribute the book independently.

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If those reasons resonate with you, or your tired of getting your manuscript ignored or denied by a traditional publisher, this might be the path for you.

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Here are the steps I’ve used when publishing my children’s books:

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Step 1: Write and Re-write:

1. Write a rough draft: Begin with a clear outline and write your first draft.
2. Read out loud: This helps in identifying awkward sentences, flow issues, and grammatical errors. 
3. Edit and rewrite: Revise your manuscript for clarity, coherence, and consistency.

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Step 2: Get Feedback

1. Hire an editor: Consider hiring a professional editor to review your manuscript.
2. Beta Readers: Find readers in your target audience and gather feedback.
3. Online writing communities: Share excerpts on writing platforms to get constructive feedback.

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Step 3: Illustrations

1. An artistic friend or relative: Discuss your vision for the illustrations.
2. A high school or college student: Check their portfolio and ask for samples for your manuscript. 
3. Hire someone online: Use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or consider hiring a professional illustrator.

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Step 4: Graphic Design/Formatting

1. Collaborate with a designer who can integrate text and images. 
2. Ensure the designer can format the book for various platforms, including Kindle Direct Publishing.

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Step 5: Promote your book!

1. Author Website: Create a website to showcase your book, share your story, and engage with readers. 
2. Crowdfunding campaign: Utilize platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe for pre-sales and marketing. 
3. Social Media and Word of Mouth: Leverage social media platforms, engage with potential readers, and encourage word-of-mouth marketing.

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Step 6: Sell your book

1. If selling on Amazon, every order will put money in your pocket.
   • You decide the price.
   • When someone places an order, Amazon will print on demand, and send you a percentage (around 30%).
   • Ask those who’ve purchased your book to leave a review.
2. Purchase a bulk order of your books on Amazon to sell on your own.
   • Create a website with an e-commerce platform.
   • Host a “launch party!”
   • Events: Attend book fairs, local events, and approach independent bookstores or schools for potential collaborations.
   • Promote on instagram, Facebook, and any other outlet!
3. Book Stores – connect with book stores to sell your books!

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Receive a signed copy of both books when you Venmo me $25:

https://venmo.com/u/Kathryn-Egly

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Now that you’ve written, rewritten, gotten feedback, found an illustrator, and maybe cried into your keyboard a few times, you’re ready to promote and sell your masterpiece! From launching a website to charming people at your events, your author journey is just beginning. Sure, there will be moments where you wonder why you didn’t just take up knitting, but trust me, seeing your book in readers’ hands makes it all worth it. So, get out there, share your story, and don’t forget to celebrate.

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Click here to purchase a copy of “The Great Lake Rescue” on Amazon

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Click here for info on a Book Launch:

“The Great Lake Rescue” Book Launch Party Recap

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Click here to purchase my first book.

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Click here to purchase my husband’s book.

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