The Fine Print of Self-Publishing

Mark Levine
Bridgeway Books (2006)
ISBN 1933538562
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (9/06)

Self-publishing could be very scary, yet the only option that the author may have.  With nearly 200,000 titles published yearly, not every book lands a traditional publisher.  At one time self-publishing was considered ineffective and frowned upon, however, in recent years self-publishing has become a practical industry.

Mark Levine, in his book “The Fine Print of Self-Publishing,” not only shows the potential author how viable self-publishing is, but he provides a process and extensive information for consideration.  Because the demand for self-publishing has increased many self-publishing companies have emerged. Levine articulates nine qualities to look for when considering a company.  Some of the points he suggests are: good reputation among writers; generous royalties; ability to obtain ISBN, UPC bar code, and LCCN as part of the package; ability to register the author’s book with Bowker’s Books in Print.  Levin also lists companies that are from outstanding to those to avoid. 

The lists contain information other than the name and website address.  He covers: format of books, genres accepted, publishing fees, royalties paid to the author, notable provisions of the publishing agreement, additional services, Alexa traffic rank, and author-friendly rating.  Perusing the various self-publishing companies that are available, I found that not all offer the same services.  It is evident that the author must do thorough research and a comparison check to come up with the best and most effective publishing company for herself or himself.  What may work for one author, may not work for another.

One of the chapters I found most interesting is “The Fine Print of Publishing Contracts.”  Levin extensively covers all areas of the contract.  One thing he stresses is “Read this carefully right now, then read it again.”  I believe that this chapter is the most important of the whole book for any one entertaining the idea of self-publishing.  Levine claims that the “license of rights” is the most important provision in the agreement.  He explains that “in most POD contracts, the author grants either an exclusive or non-exclusive license during the contract term.”  The exclusive license stops anyone, including the author, of publishing the book, whereas the non-exclusive license allows the author to sell, distribute, and have another publisher publish the book during the contract term.  Levin explains other rights, such as worldwide rights and electronic rights.

“The Fine Print of Self-Publishing” is a must for any writer that is considering self-publishing.  Levine gives accurate, concise and educational information that will open eyes and inform the writers in areas they didn’t even consider. 

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