I used to be a book publisher.
From 2007 to 2012, I ran the micro press Medusa’s Muse from my kitchen table. I was the publisher, lead editor, business manager as well as the entire marketing department. With the help of my then husband Rick (book designer) and my good friend Jane (copy-editor), I published four books:
Traveling Blind: Life Lessons fro Unlikely Teachers, by Laura Fogg
Punk Rock Saved My Ass: an anthology of true punk rock stories
The Radical Housewife, by Shannon Drury
And a book I wrote about starting a small press called What You Need to Know to be a Pro (no longer in print).
Starting a small press allowed me to work with wonderful authors, create art, and learn about the book industry. So when my own book was completed, friends asked if I planned to self publish.
The answer was ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Publishing a book is extremely hard work, especially on your own. I wanted to work collaboratively with a team who would help make my manuscript a thriving work of art. But I was hesitant to submit to traditional publishers because I didn’t want to give up all control over my art. So I decided to investigate the hybrid model.
Hybrid publishing is a newer model of book publishing that combines traditional and self publishing. The author pays for some of the costs of publishing while the publisher provides the rest. The author gets a higher percentage of royalties. She Writes Press has an excellent reputation of quality and are very selective about which books they will publish. They weren’t just going to take my money to stroke my ego. When they accepted Raising Rhia I knew my work was good, which felt very validating. And they give me the right combination of artistic control with publishing expertise. It feels collaborative, like working with my team at the kitchen table while publishing books with Medusa’s Muse.
Here is a TED Talk from Brooke Warner, publisher at She Writes Press explaining more about hybrid publishing and how it creates opportunities for authors.
Just like any publishing company, it will take more than a year for my book to launch. There’s a lot for me to do in the mean time, like creating a professional website and building my online presence. Being a published author isn’t just about the book. I also have to sell the book. It’s a job that takes focus and perseverance. I’m nervous but ready for the challenge. And She Writes Press feels like the best choice for me and my writing.
I’ll keep you updated on the publication process. I’d like to know what you think about hybrid publishing. Leave a comment and let me know.