Self-publishing + Distribution

Main Characteristics:

• Author does all the work—responsible for hiring outside services (editing, cover design, formatting) and other assistance.
• Author provides distributor with final files/book.
• Distributor may take portion of sales and/or charge upfront fee.
• Author keeps all rights to book.
• Distributor pays author.

Positives:

• Distributor is mandatory for print or POD books.
• Some distributors provide e-book file conversion, marketing tools, and other services for free or a fee.
• Author isn’t responsible for managing several accounts for multiple retailers.

Negatives:

• Print and POD services won’t place your book in bookstores.
• Some distributors are also online retailers which may require upfront fees, a portion of sales, and/or exclusivity.