With Regards to Promotion and Self Publishing

by John Knowles Probst
(Quincy, CA, US)

In 1996, after writing my first book for four years, I finished JOHNNY MAC. I knew nothing about the publishing industry, and had no connections with any other author, agent or publishing company. So, with the suggestion of my editor, Lori Reynolds, I wrote up my letter of introduction about myself and the novel. After attaining a list of over one hundred reputable agents, and publishing houses, I began sending out letters or e-mails. Of the 80 some letters sent, I received less than twelve thank you for considering us, but no thank you etc etc. replies. I never did know if the others were even read. But it did become clear to me, that unless you knew someone, or wrote a novel that centered on prevelant situations, or that your work would make an obvious and quick financial gain to a publisher, neither agents or publishers were interested.

After having gone to several book publishing conferences, I also became aware, that without connections, self publishing is a very good alternative. Unlike traditional publishing, you, the author put your own capital into the project, and must also go out and sell the product. This business of selling the product, I personally am not very good at. I live in a town 80 miles from the next major metropolitan area. I do send out ad's to relatives, friends, book stores, and have had signing at local books stores, but am not a real gung-ho, knock on every door pushing the product kind of guy. I am retired and have used self publishing and bills from my excellent editor as a tax right off.

Since I began self publishing twelve years ago, the price has declined considerably. The various self publishing companies, because there are more self publishing firms competing, have become more concise, correct, and offer far more variability with regards to the publishing of the final copy.

I have self published three other novels, and will have a fourth out in June. I have gained a great deal of self satisfaction out of publishing my novels. The novel title and the self publishing firms I used are listed on my web page. For anyone, frustrated by attempting to get an agent, or trying to gain the attention of a publishing house, I highly recommend self publishing. Most firms can be found on the internet.

The very best of luck in your publishing venture.

John K. Probst

Visit John's website.