For nearly all writers, we are united in wanting to get our writing out into the world and in front of readers, but how we get there is much more personal, and influenced by a wide range of factors. So how do you decide on the best approach for you, and your book? Should you self-publish or pursue a traditional publishing deal? There is no right or wrong answer - you just have to pick the option that feels right for you and your book - but this article outlines some of the elements that could influence and inform your decision.
Distribution/exposure
If you want to see your book stacked on the front desks in bookshops, or on supermarket shelves, mainstream publishing has a clear advantage. Indeed, it’s unlikely your self-published book is ever going to be stocked in those outlets. However, it has its own cost - the supermarkets especially have such clout with distributors and buying power that they likely get preferential wholesale rates. This has an impact on your financial return per copy, which offsets the sales boost the increased exposure can bring.