Self-Publishing Controversial Material

by Amanda Brooks
(San Jose, CA)

A sex worker, I'm writing and publishing a series of reference books for Internet escorts (and will later open up my press to other writers - but that requires capital!). Though I tried the conventional route of querying agents and established publishing houses, the rejection rate made me realize I would grow old before getting a "yes." So I formed my own company to produce my work.

Though I had already researched self-publishing for a couple years prior to stepping into it, I really wasn't prepared for the problems I encountered in the small-publishing industry. Though everyone gives lip service to the idea of free speech, the reality is free speech is only supported when they agree with it. Creating a reference series for an industry that needs it doesn't fall under "free speech," apparently.

My first brush with this was in finding an editor. Most would not continue their conversation with me once they discovered the subject matter. More problems arose when I got to the "sample edit" stage. One editor re-wrote my sample edit to say what they believed (based on stereotypes and not actual experience). Several others barely edited anything at all. But I eventually found the perfect editor for me - unsparingly critical without altering my voice.

Same story with cover designers and interior layout. Some people wanted character references before they'd even look at my project; others were worried about soiling their eyes. I had to find someone who would work with me, whose work I like and fits into my budget. It's like trying to align the planets.

Finding a printer was the same issue. I had to pass content-screening before I could even get a quote (which means my e-mails got forwarded to a lot of plant managers). I have been turned down by every small/self -publisher fulfillment house in the US I've been able to find. The one company that did take my work does not seem to be completely happy about it, given the very poor treatment I've received from them. But I need fulfillment and just have to put up with it until a better option comes along.

This is just the quick version of events. It's actually a horrific, painful, ongoing process, even in the production of Book #2. It's been very hard for me to expand as I want. First, I have the small/self -publisher stigma working against me. The subject matter adds the final touch. I have to constantly explain and justify my books before any business can happen - if it happens. None of this is mentioned in the self-publishing books I read.

Self-publishing is easy if you're writing about the usual, bland topics (or writing about self-publishing). It's incredibly difficult if you want to take on any subject matter that's out of the mainstream, no matter how well it's presented or written.

I feel the struggle is worth it. I've created something my readers can use and have a few others following my lead. I really didn't want to be a pioneer, but I guess I am.

Visit Amanda's website, EscortMBA.com