4 Top Books Publishing Platforms and How to Start

Platforms

1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): KDP is a self-publishing platform that allows writers to publish and sell their books on Amazon. KDP offers a range of tools and resources to help writers prepare their manuscript for publishing, including a formatting guide, cover design options, and promotional tools. One of the benefits of KDP is that it allows writers to retain control over their work, including the rights to the content and the ability to set their own prices. KDP also provides writers with access to a large audience of readers, as Amazon is one of the largest online book retailers in the world.

2. Smashwords: Smashwords is an ebook distribution platform that allows authors to upload their books in various formats and distribute them to major ebook retailers like Apple iBooks, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. Smashwords offers a range of tools and resources to help writers prepare their manuscript for publishing, including a formatting guide and cover design options. Once the manuscript is ready, writers can upload it to Smashwords, set the price and distribution options, and the book will be available for sale on multiple online retailers. One of the benefits of Smashwords is that it offers a wide distribution network, which can help writers reach a large audience of readers. Smashwords also allows writers to retain control over their work, including the rights to the content and the ability to set their own prices.

3. Draft2Digital: Draft2Digital is a self-publishing platform that allows authors to distribute their books to multiple retailers like Amazon, Apple iBooks, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. Draft2Digital offers a range of tools and resources to help writers prepare their manuscript for publishing, including a formatting tool and cover design options. Once the manuscript is ready, writers can upload it to Draft2Digital, set the price and distribution options, and the book will be available for sale on multiple online retailers.

   One of the benefits of Draft2Digital is that it offers a user-friendly interface that makes the publishing process simple and easy for writers. Draft2Digital also offers a range of promotional tools and services, including free ebook conversion and formatting, as well as access to a range of marketing resources.

4. IngramSpark: IngramSpark is a self-publishing platform that offers print-on-demand and ebook distribution services including access to over 40,000 retailers, libraries, and educational institutions worldwide. Authors can upload their books, set the price, and choose the distribution options. One of the benefits of IngramSpark is its global reach, which can help writers reach a wide audience of readers. IngramSpark also offers a range of professional publishing services, including cover design, editing, and marketing, which can help writers produce a high-quality book that is more likely to be successful.

What You May Need Before You Write

1. Passion: A writer may feel passionate about a particular topic, idea, or story that they want to share with the world. When a writer has a strong burning passion, they are more likely to invest their time and effort needed to create something truly remarkable. Passion can fuel a writer's creativity, inspire them to push past their limits, and help them overcome the challenges that come with writing. Passion can also be contagious, as readers can feel the writer's enthusiasm and emotional connection to the material. A writer who is passionate about their work can create a powerful emotional bond with their readers, making them more likely to engage with the story and become invested in the characters and the plot.

2. Inspiration: Writers may get inspired by other books, movies, music, or art that they consume, which can motivate them to create something of their own. One of the benefits of inspiration is that it can help a writer to create something unique and original. When a writer is inspired, they may be more likely to take risks, experiment with different styles and techniques, and push the boundaries of what is considered "normal" or "acceptable" in their writing. Another benefit of inspiration is that it can help a writer to connect with their readers on a deeper level. When a writer is inspired, they are more likely to write from the heart, creating a story that resonates with readers and draws them in emotionally.

3. Personal experience: Many writers draw inspiration from their own life experiences, struggles, and triumphs. These experiences can provide a rich source of material for a good book. When a writer draws from personal experience, they can create a story that feels authentic and emotionally resonant. By weaving their own experiences and emotions into the narrative, they can create characters that feel real and relatable to readers. Personal experience can also be a source of inspiration and motivation for a writer. When we write about things, we've personally experienced, we may feel a deeper emotional connection to the material, which can help to fuel our creativity and drive us to create something truly remarkable.

4. Desire to entertain, educate or inform: A writer may have a desire to entertain readers with a captivating story, educate them on a particular topic, or inform them about a certain issue. Educating and informing readers can also be a powerful motivator for a writer. When a writer is passionate about a particular topic or issue, they may feel compelled to share their knowledge and insights with others. This can involve conducting extensive research, developing a clear and concise writing style, and presenting information in a way that is accessible and engaging for readers.

5. Recognition and legacy: Some writers may be driven by the desire to be recognized for their talent by creating a work of literature that is powerful, insightful, and meaningful, a writer can achieve a sense of immortality, knowing that their words and ideas will continue to influence and inspire readers for generations to come.

To start publishing your book/novel, follow these steps:

1. Write and edit your book/novel to the best of your ability.

2. Create a book cover or hire a professional to design one for you.

3. Format your book according to the platform's guidelines.

4. Choose a platform to publish your book/novel and create an account.

5. Upload your book and fill in the required information such as title, description, keywords, and pricing.

6. Choose the distribution options and set the royalty rate.

7. Publish your book and promote it through social media, email marketing, and other channels to reach your target audience.

Remember, self-publishing is not an easy process that you can simply glide through, but with persistence and dedication, you can make your book/novel available to readers all around the world. Good luck to all writers and authors!