My Self-Publishing Journey

My Self-Publishing Journey: Part 1

Throughout my childhood, I always had an interest in writing stories. I would continually create paper "books" by folding sheets and drawing covers. I would barely get more than one sentence down before abandoning the projects, since I felt my ideas weren't good enough.

At age 11, I started writing my first book (Lottie Niffumevol, which you can read on my page). I made a goal for myself to reach 100 pages; I wanted to write a lengthy story so that I could feel like a "real" writer. I would write during summer vacations and on weekends. Each new chapter I began brought me pride in that I had come that far.

I finished writing my first book in November of 2012. At the time, I would continually watch a video describing how to submit a manuscript for publication. I was afraid of rejection and honestly didn't really consider that I could publish at my young age. So my manuscript sat in a drawer for years.

Later, I decided that during my gap year between high school and university that I would self-publish this book. I would have extra time on my hands since I wouldn't be swamped with homework anymore. Plus, I felt like everyone my age was starting a new chapter of their lives, and I wished to feel good about myself.

I spent a couple of months researching self-publishing companies and how to copyright my book. Then came self-editing and communicating with the company I had chosen. I took great pride in doing all I could myself.

During the editing process, I also set up my own website using Weebly. Designing the site and publishing was just as much fun as writing. I was excited about being able to control what the website looked like and that readers would be purchasing from me on the site. Once I was able to accept online payments, I released my book.

Please continue to Part 2!