The decision to self-publish a book is a monumental one, opening a world of creative control and direct connection with readers. However, the path to publication can be complex, involving numerous steps beyond simply writing “The End.” This is where self-publishing companies come into play, offering a spectrum of services to help authors navigate the journey.
This guide provides authors with a comprehensive overview of the different types of self publishing companies and key considerations for choosing the right partner.
Understanding the Landscape: Types of Self-Publishing Companies
Self-publishing companies generally fall into three main categories, each offering a different level of involvement and cost structure:
1. Direct-to-Retailer Platforms (DIY)
These are the most common and often the most cost-effective options, as they allow authors to upload their books directly to major online bookstores. You retain maximum control and earn higher royalties, but you’re responsible for all pre-publication work (editing, cover design, formatting) and marketing.
- Examples:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): The dominant player, offering free ebook and print-on-demand (paperback/hardcover) publishing to Amazon’s vast global audience.
- Barnes & Noble Press: Publishes to the Nook platform and offers print distribution via B&N.
- Kobo Writing Life: Strong for international ebook reach, especially in Canada, Europe, and Asia.
- Google Play Books: Distributes ebooks to Google’s platform.
- Best For: Authors who are tech-savvy, have a very tight budget, are willing to learn and execute every step themselves, or plan to hire freelancers for individual services.
2. Aggregators (Distributors)
Aggregators act as middlemen, allowing you to upload your book once, and they then distribute it to a wide range of online retailers, libraries, and sometimes even physical bookstores worldwide. They save you the time and effort of managing multiple direct accounts.
- Examples:
- Draft2Digital (D2D): A highly user-friendly aggregator known for excellent customer service and free automated ebook formatting. Distributes to Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play Books, and many others, including library systems. Also offers print distribution via IngramSpark.
- IngramSpark: Primarily known for its unparalleled global print distribution to bookstores and libraries through the Ingram Content Group network. Also distributes ebooks. Often used in conjunction with KDP.
- PublishDrive: A more advanced aggregator offering extensive global reach (including niche markets), often with a subscription model where authors keep 100% of royalties (after retailer fees).
- Smashwords: One of the original ebook aggregators, now part of Draft2Digital but still operates under its own brand for various distribution options.
- Best For: Authors who want wide distribution to all major platforms beyond Amazon without the hassle of individual uploads, and those prioritizing print availability in physical stores and libraries.
3. Full-Service Self-Publishing Companies (often called Hybrid Publishers)
These companies offer a comprehensive suite of services, typically including professional editing, cover design, interior formatting, ISBN registration, distribution, and often some level of marketing support. They come with an upfront cost, but alleviate much of the author’s workload.
- Examples:
- BookBaby: Offers a wide range of packages for editing, design, print-on-demand, ebook conversion, and comprehensive distribution. Authors retain 100% of royalties after BookBaby’s distribution fees.
- MindStir Media: Known for its personalized approach and extensive marketing and PR services, often including celebrity endorsements.
- She Writes Press (and SparkPress): Reputable hybrid publishers with an application process, focusing on high-quality production, strong community, and robust marketing support, often leading to industry recognition.
- Greenleaf Book Group: A high-end hybrid publisher often working with non-fiction authors, thought leaders, and those with established platforms, offering sophisticated distribution and marketing strategies.
- Reedsy (Marketplace): While not a single company, Reedsy acts as a curated marketplace to connect authors directly with top-tier freelance professionals for every service (editing, design, marketing). This allows authors to build their own custom “full-service” team.
- Best For: Authors who have a budget to invest, prioritize professional quality in every aspect, want significant hands-on support, and wish to offload the technical and production complexities.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Self-Publishing Company
Regardless of the type, ask yourself these crucial questions:
- Your Budget: What are you willing to spend? Free platforms are great for minimal investment, while full-service options require significant upfront capital.
- Your Time & Skills: How much time are you willing to dedicate to learning about formatting, marketing, and managing the process? Do you have existing skills in design, editing, or marketing?
- Services Offered (and Their Quality):
- Editing: What types of editing (developmental, line, copyediting, proofreading) are included? Ask for samples.
- Design: Is cover design custom or template-based? What about interior formatting? Review their portfolio.
- ISBN & Copyright: Do they provide an ISBN (and is it yours or theirs)? Who retains copyright (it should always be you)?
- Marketing Support: What specific marketing services are offered? Are they realistic and effective? What are the additional costs?
- Distribution Reach:
- Retailers: Will your book be available on Amazon, Apple, B&N, Kobo, Google Play, etc.?
- Libraries/Bookstores: Is broad print distribution (via Ingram) included?
- Global Access: How wide is their international reach?
- Royalty Structure & Fees:
- Royalty Percentage: What percentage of the retail price do you keep?
- Hidden Fees: Are there any monthly, annual, or per-revision fees? Understand all potential costs.
- Author Copies: What is the cost for you to purchase copies of your own book?
- Control & Rights:
- Exclusivity: Do they require exclusivity for your book (especially the ebook)? Be cautious of long-term exclusivity.
- File Ownership: Will you receive all final print-ready and ebook files? This is crucial for future flexibility.
- Reputation & Reviews:
- Research: Check independent reviews, author forums, and industry watchdog sites (like Writer Beware) to avoid “vanity presses.”
- Transparency: A trustworthy company will be transparent about pricing, processes, and contracts.
- Customer Support: How responsive and helpful is their support team?
The Hybrid Approach: Often the Best Strategy
Many successful self-published authors use a blended approach to maximize reach and quality:
- Amazon KDP: For direct access to Amazon’s massive audience.
- Draft2Digital (or PublishDrive/Smashwords): For wide ebook distribution to all other major global retailers and library systems.
- IngramSpark: For the broadest global print distribution to bookstores and libraries.
- Freelance Professionals (via Reedsy/Upwork/Fiverr): Hiring independent editors, designers, and formatters directly, offering control over quality without the overhead of full-service packages, if you’re willing to project manage.
Choosing the right self-publishing company is a critical step in your author journey. By carefully assessing your needs, thoroughly researching your options, and understanding the nuances of each service.
