Advantages & Challenges for Self-publishing Children’s Book Authors

​Self-publishing has become a popular option for authors of all genres, including children's books. Self-publishing allows authors to retain creative control over their work and publish their books on their own terms. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of self-publishing children's books and provide tips for success.

What is Self-Publishing

​Self-publishing is the process of publishing a book without the involvement of a traditional publishing company. Self-published authors are responsible for all aspects of the publishing process, including editing, formatting, cover design, and distribution. Self-publishing allows authors to maintain creative control over their work and retain a larger percentage of the profits.

Advantages of Self-Publishing Children's Books

Creative Control
One of the most significant advantages of self-publishing is that the author maintains creative control over their work. This includes everything from the content of the book to the cover design. Self-published authors have the final say on every aspect of the book, which can be a major advantage for children's book authors who may want to incorporate specific illustrations or themes.

Higher Royalties
Self-publishing also allows authors to retain a larger percentage of the profits. With traditional publishing, authors typically receive a royalty rate of around 10-15% of the book's sale price. In contrast, self-published authors can earn up to 70% of the book's sale price on platforms like Amazon.

Faster Publication
Traditional publishing can take months or even years to complete, from submitting a manuscript to the publishing process. In contrast, self-publishing can be much faster. Once the manuscript is complete, self-publishers can upload the book to a publishing platform and have it available for sale within a matter of days.

Flexibility
Self-publishing also offers greater flexibility for authors. With traditional publishing, authors often have to sign contracts that restrict their creative control and limit their ability to publish other works. With self-publishing, authors have the freedom to publish as many books as they like and to experiment with different genres and styles. This can be a great advantage for authors who want to explore new topics and audiences.

Access to a Global Audience
Finally, self-publishing offers authors access to a global audience. With online retailers like Amazon, self-published books can be distributed to readers all over the world. This can be especially important for authors who want to reach readers in other countries or who are writing for a niche audience. Self-publishing allows authors to connect with readers directly and to build a community around their work.

Challenges of Self-Publishing Children's Books

Quality Control
One of the most significant challenges of self-publishing is maintaining quality control. Without the resources and expertise of a traditional publishing company, self-published authors are responsible for editing, proofreading, and formatting their own work. This can be a significant challenge, especially for first-time authors.

Limited Distribution
Self-published authors may face limited distribution options. While platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble allow self-publishers to reach a global audience, traditional bookstores and libraries may be less likely to carry self-published books. This can make it more challenging for self-published children's book authors to reach their target audience.

High Production Costs
One of the biggest challenges of self-publishing children's books is the high production costs. Children's books often require high-quality illustrations and printing, which can be expensive. As a self-published author, you will be responsible for covering these costs, which can be a barrier for some writers. Additionally, marketing and promoting your book can also be costly, further adding to the overall expense of self-publishing.

Lack of Professional Support
Finally, self-published authors often lack the professional support that traditional publishers provide. Traditional publishers have teams of editors, designers, and marketers who work together to ensure that books are of high quality and reach a wide audience. As a self-published author, you will need to find and hire these professionals on your own, which can be challenging and costly. Additionally, without the support of a traditional publisher, it can be difficult to gain recognition and credibility within the industry.

Marketing
Marketing can be a significant challenge for self-published authors. While self-publishers have the flexibility to market their book in whatever way they choose, they may not have the resources to promote their book as effectively as a traditional publisher. This can be especially challenging for children's book authors who may need to reach parents, teachers, and librarians.

Tips for Success in Self-Publishing Children's Books

Hire a Professional Editor and Illustrator
To ensure the highest quality product, self-published authors should consider hiring a professional editor and illustrator. A professional editor can help with proofreading and ensure that the book is free from errors, while a professional illustrator can help bring the story to life with captivating illustrations.

Use a Professional Book Formatting Service
Formatting a book can be a challenging task, especially for first-time authors. Hiring a professional book formatting service can ensure that the book is formatted correctly for print and ebook distribution.

Create a High-Quality Product
To stand out in the crowded children's book market, it's essential to create a high-quality product. This means not only focusing on the content of the book but also on the book's design, illustrations, and formatting. Consider hiring a professional editor and illustrator to ensure that the book is polished and visually appealing. Pay attention to the details, such as font choice and page layout, to create a cohesive and visually pleasing book.

Build a Strong Online Presence
Online marketing is essential for self-published authors, and building a strong online presence can help you reach a wider audience. Consider setting up a website or blog to promote your book and connect with readers. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share updates, teasers, and behind-the-scenes content. Building a strong online presence can help you connect with potential readers and build a community around your book.

Network and Collaborate
Networking and collaborating with other authors and industry professionals can help you gain exposure and improve your craft. Attend book fairs, writer's conferences, and other industry events to connect with other authors, editors, and illustrators. Consider collaborating with other authors or illustrators on a project to expand your audience and gain new perspectives on your work. Building relationships within the industry can help you gain valuable feedback and support, as well as open doors for future opportunities.