Answering Your Questions on Self-publishing a TINY Book
Jul 25, 2024
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Discover the journey of creating a tiny book, proving that impactful stories don’t need to be lengthy. Learn about the challenges of self-publishing and valuable insights on formatting. The hosts discuss the power of simplicity in writing and share conflicting lessons from their language learning experiences. They redefine 'tiny books', emphasizing that meaningful content outweighs page count, inspiring aspiring authors to break free from traditional conventions.
Writing a tiny book enables aspiring authors to effectively share impactful messages without the burden of lengthy manuscripts.
Navigating the self-publishing process requires adaptability and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges with platforms and formatting tools.
Deep dives
The Concept of a Tiny Book
Writing a tiny book is an accessible goal for aspiring authors, and it doesn't require extensive writing experience. The speaker encourages writers to embrace the idea that a smaller book, such as one with around 13,000 words, can still deliver impactful messages and stories. For reference, a master's dissertation is typically longer than this tiny book, demonstrating that brevity doesn't compromise quality. This approach invites more people to consider the possibility of sharing their thoughts and expertise through writing without feeling overwhelmed by the idea of producing a lengthy manuscript.
Publishing Challenges and Solutions
The process of publishing the tiny book highlighted various challenges, particularly with platforms like Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing. The speaker encountered legal requirements related to VAT in Italy, which complicated the use of Amazon for self-publishing. After initial setbacks, an alternative self-publishing platform, You Can Print, was successfully utilized. This experience showcases the importance of finding the right resources and being adaptable in the face of obstacles when pursuing self-publishing.
Formatting Strategies and Creative Freedom
Formatting the book posed its own set of difficulties, underscoring the importance of choosing the right tools and support when producing a manuscript. Initially, the speaker attempted to format the book independently using Microsoft Word, which proved frustrating and time-consuming. Eventually, hiring a freelancer on Fiverr partially addressed the issue, but final adjustments were made using free online tools to achieve the desired format. This journey emphasizes that creativity can thrive without relying heavily on specialized writing apps, illustrating that fundamental tools like imagination and basic writing skills are often sufficient.