How To Self-Publish Your Book (A Man, A Book & A Misguided Theory) Part 2

Second, I went all out in the quality preparation of the book, securing a brilliant, young but hungry editor, and a quality graphic design with help from the world of Twitter and Facebook.

An excellent quality of writing and materials were a huge deal to me. First, I secured a quality and experienced but reasonably priced editor. Alice Sullivan was highly recommended by respected friends in the industry and she immediately proved invaluable. Alice is a free-lance editor who respected my writing style and voice while maintaining a high standard of grammar, readability and organization of content. If you desire a quality book, this step absolutely cannot be taken for granted.

For example, at the climax of a torrid editing pace that lasted several weeks, I received a call from Alice questioning me about the last chapter. She felt that it did not fit the context and “feel” of the book, and suggested that I delete the entire chapter and completely rewrite it. I cannot adequately describe the amount of work I had poured into that chapter, and the feelings of emotion that welled up during that conversation. I decided to sleep on it and seek a very successful writer friend’s advice. He gently told me to always listen to my editor. I did and the book is far better for it. It was the right call – not easy – but right. A seasoned editor is a must.

I also researched the standard font utilized by most publishers, realized that Times New Roman would label me a novice and subsequently went for a 11.5 Georgia font. Very readable and it was obviously the standard choice by most publishers. I’m happy I did so.

Tomorrow, the amazing but true graphic design story.

5 responses to “How To Self-Publish Your Book (A Man, A Book & A Misguided Theory) Part 2”

  1. patriciazell Avatar

    Thanks for sharing an inside look at self-publishing! I’m looking forward to the next post.
    .-= patriciazell´s last blog ..#38 THE DOING OF PRAYING: VICTORY =-.

  2. Carol Asher Avatar

    Being so detailed to see out the more accepted and used font shows how important this process was to you. However, I think I would be holding my heart in my hand if I were told to rewrite and entire chapter. Proverbs 12:15 NLT “Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others”. Wise decision and a brave one. Looking forward to tomorrows. I remember voting on the cover.
    .-= Carol Asher´s last blog ..Consistency and Conditional love =-.

    1. Randy Elrod Avatar

      @Carol Asher, Thanks, Carol. I hope you like the final cover!

      1. Carol Asher Avatar

        @Randy Elrod, i love it! I confess I haven’t purchased the book yet. I’m hoping I can next month.
        .-= Carol Asher´s last blog ..Consistency and Conditional love =-.

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