There are two ways to get a book published: self-publishing and traditional publishing. Here are a few key distinctions between the two:
Control: The author retains complete control over their work in self-publishing, from the content to the distribution. The publisher has final say over many aspects of the book in traditional publishing, including the title, cover design, and marketing strategy.
Time to publication: Authors can self-publish their books quickly, often in a matter of weeks or months. Traditional publishing takes much longer because the author must first find a literary agent, who must then find a publisher willing to take on the book.
Financials: When self-publishing, the author pays for all services necessary to publish their book, such as editing, design, and distribution. Traditional publishing covers these costs, but the author typically receives a smaller percentage of book sales profits.
Because it is more difficult to get a book accepted by a traditional publisher, traditional publishing is often regarded as more prestigious than self-publishing. However, self-publishing has gained acceptance in recent years, and many successful authors have chosen to self-publish.
The decision to self-publish or pursue traditional publishing is ultimately determined by the author's goals, timeline, and resources. Both paths have advantages and disadvantages, and authors should carefully weigh their options before deciding. If you need assistance with book publishing, there are companies that specialize in the design, production, and marketing of books. They should be able to guide you through the entire publishing process.