In part one of this article, we talked about three self publishing myths and revealed the truth behind each. In this second part of the article, we discuss three more myths so that you can take the facts about self publishing and decide whether or not it’s for you.

Myth 4: Self publishing is expensive because of the additional services writers have to pay for.

FALSE. If you’re a writer then you’re an editor as well. That’s because few writers produce one draft of anything and think it’s ready for print. Most writers write, edit, write, edit, write and then edit some more. Through editing, writers hone their craft so it makes sense that they become adept at editing. While traditional book publishers hire editors to read over books, self published writers must either attempt this task themselves or hire someone. Instead of hiring an editor to look over a manuscript, self publishing writers can either trade editing services with another writer, get into a critique group where editing is priority or edit themselves. It may take more time to self edit but it can save a lot of money in the long run and be just as professional as a service.

Myth 5: Self publishing requires more self promotion than traditional book publishing.

FALSE. Unless you’re an established writer with a large following, you’ll be forced to provide a lot of your own marketing whether you self publish or you’re published by a traditional publisher. Book publishers simply don’t have the budget to put every writer on a book tour. If you’re going to be successful, you have to market yourself—with or without a book publisher.

Myth 6: Self published books are more difficult to sell.

FALSE. According to a poll conducted by Zogby International, over 43% of poll respondents purchased books online as opposed to a brick and mortar bookstore. While self published books may not grace many shelves of bookstore giants Barnes and Noble or Boarders, books that are self published are all over the Internet and many are sold at successful rates.

While there are pros and cons with any book publishing avenue, self publishing is taking strides to overcome the negative beliefs many writers still hold regarding books published outside of the traditional publishing loop. Unfortunately, many of the myths about self publishing have been made up and exaggerated by the very people who can benefit the most—writers. Before you decide whether self publishing is right for you, think about the opinion you care most about…other writers or the thousands of readers who would love to purchase your book?

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