This is a question I am asked often: how do I get a foreword or testimonials for my book from people I respect or admire in my industry? There are a number of different ways you can approach this. The first step is usually a polite email or phone call to the person you are […]
READ MOREStarting your manuscript
You can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page. Jodi Picoult, bestselling author When you think about writing your book, what goes through your mind? I should write that book, but… it’s too hard? I can’t write well enough? I don’t know where to start? I’m not moody enough to call […]
READ MOREHigh-quality printing in the age of self-publishing
Not that long ago it was very easy to recognise a self-published book. The design was poor, you didn’t have to look too hard to find errors or other unprofessional touches such as no ISBN or barcode, and numerous other clues. But often the biggest giveaway was obvious before you even opened the book: the […]
READ MOREUnderstanding your distribution options
Once your book is complete, it’s time to get it out into the world. There are two main types of distribution for your print version: bricks-and-mortar bookshops and print on demand. If you have a publisher then they should handle bookshop distribution for you; if you are a self-publisher you will have to do this […]
READ MOREUsing your book in your business
This is a chapter from Michael’s book Stand Out that looks at ways you can use your book to help build your business. Download now
READ MOREAwesome editing checklist
This checklist will help to ensure you don’t miss any important steps during the editing process, including discussing the level of editing required and any possible copyright issues. Download now
READ MOREHow cover design really works
We work with many first-time self-publishers here at PC, and sometimes during the cover design process I sense the author getting a little frustrated when the cover design seems to become more involved than they expected. They underestimate the level of development required to get a finished cover. Here’s how authors sometimes expect the process […]
READ MOREDo you know the ‘why’ behind your book?
Most people have a book idea in them. Some of those people write their book and a few will go on and publish the book. How many of them do you think know the why, the reason they wrote their book? For novelists, the why may mostly be to entertain readers and share their story. […]
READ MOREThe three different publishing models
Knowing where you fit in the publishing spectrum will help you successfully navigate the process, so let’s consider the different publishing models available to authors. The industry has changed rapidly in recent years and the lines between the different publishing models are now sometimes a little (or a lot) blurred. Still, you can publish a […]
READ MORE‘A Brief Guide to Self-publishing’
This is a brief guide to the steps involved in self-publishing a book. Includes information on planning, printing, editing, design and distribution. Download now
READ MORE