Self-publishing: Expectation Vs Reality

by Nataraj Sasid

Hello,

Before I go on to elaborate on my book, I would like to introduce myself to what gives me the potential and right to comment on this topic and even write a book on it.

I have been associated with the publishing industry for more than two decades. This means it has not only been my bread and butter but also my raison d’être.

At work, almost every day brought me eye to eye with an author or a writer distressed beyond words only to have his work see the light of day. As much as it was heart-wrenching for me to see them struggle, I used to feel the obligation and need to ease the process for writers.

Professionally, being in the sales and marketing arena, I always had a vantage point that enabled me to make out what sells and what doesn’t. To top that, I have been fortunate enough to collaborate with the “who’s who” of the global publishing industry. Moreover, for the past few years, I have been assisting self-publishing authors. These together, have eventually made me an expert in gauging what would work for a particular author.

With the first-hand experience that I have gained by working with several authors closely, I thought it only natural to write a book for the new authors on the points that should be considered publishing their books.

This book is a humble attempt to help new authors with the basics of book publishing. I hope going through this book before they sketch out their work, will sure make their journey to publishing uncomplicated and safe.

Signing off with all good wishes to all the writers out there.

Happy Writing!



-Nataraj Sasid

Genres: Self Help

132 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 2, 2020

Reviews

[Alok Mishra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nataraj's book is for the readers who want to become authors today, tomorrow or anytime sooner or later in future. He is himself an experienced professional with a demonstrated history in the publishing industry and therefore, whatever Nataraj writes in his book should be taken seriously, especially by those who want to pursue a successful self-publishing experience. Though the book might not be very much in terms of newness for all those who are experienced authors, still, there are many things that Nataraj has brought in a comprehensive way in his book which will be refreshing, more enlightening and meaningful even for the experienced authors. I give it a recommended tag! Do read it.

[Amit Mishra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nataraj's book is one of the best guides ever written on self-publishing in the Indian context. He has wonderfully explained briefly about publishing, self-publishing and how to make the most out of this venture. He has also discussed writing and good writing habits in a few chapters. This is remarkable. I would like to recommend this book to every reader with aspirations of becoming an author someday. Understand the publishing industry right before you jump into it with your high expectations.

[Nidhi P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nataraj's book will guide people effectively on how to choose the best services when opting for a self-publishing company. The best part about this book is the immense two-decades experience of the author in the publishing industry, as Nataraj has himself suggested in the introduction of the book as well. You cannot ignore this book, though with a few shortcomings as well, if you are thinking about getting self-published.

[Akanksha Shrivastav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right from the beginning, publishing traditionally vs going for self-publication to how to choose your services and how to engage the readers, the book has explained (briefly) many things that young authors and newcomers will need... I enjoyed reading the book and I would love to become an author some day but I am sure that I will not be bewildered now. Thanks, author!

[Abhishek Ranjan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book comes with content which is written in black and white. You read it; you understand it; if you are wise, you will act upon it. Nataraj, who is a person with publishing background himself, has opened the threads of publishing industry, unfolding the secrets that all aspiring authors must know. So, this is your call now... read this guide book and be enlightened. All the best!

[Rahul Sikaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that simplifies the complex concept of self-publishing for a newcomer into the world of writing and eventually, self-publishing. Self-publishing is the new normal and we will have to accept it today. We cannot imagine the survival of struggling writers without the idea of self-publication and therefore, this has also created a great opportunity for the publishers to make money and most of them do that. Nataraj has done extremely well in telling the authors in black and white what to do and what not to do in terms of their novice adventure into self-publishing and this will certainly work for many authors...

[Shivani Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book becomes even more contemporary and relevant because of the fact that self-publishing is going to be there for a long time now and it might well replace the traditional game of publishing which has already, it seems, ceased to exist... Nataraj Sasid's experience as a publisher makes him the best person to comment upon the proceedings and he can call people out and also warn the aspiring authors of things which might be their worry in the publishing venture. A timely book I must say and I would recommend it to the authors who know nothing about self-publishing. Those who are in the field of writing for many years might well know everything beforehand.

[Harsh Tiwari · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are also one of the authors confused about the self-publishing shops in the Indian publishing industry, this is just the right book for you which will help you in understanding what is self-publishing, how you should approach the publishers and how can you make the most out of your self-publishing ambitions without being financially harassed and emotionally fragile. Do read this book by Nataraj, a person with almost 2 decades of experience in the publishing industry!

[Saloni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly speaking, I have not read this kind of book before. But it has kept me engaged until the last. As an active reader and writer, I always wondered about the writing industry. How to publish your work, how to sell more copies and how to market your book? The book has quenched my desire and provide me with all the answers in a very easy way.
It will let you know about all the backhands of the publishing industry. It will make a writer expert in this field that he can negotiate better with the publication houses. However, it has busted some myths as well that may shock a writer. If your expectations do not meet the reality then it will be a really frustrating moment for anyone.
Do read this book to know about do's and do not's before publishing your book.
Overall, it is a nice book!

[Shruti Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is nothing more worthy than learning from experiences. Nataraj Sasid is an expert who has seen the development of self-publishing companies in India. With all of his experiences, he has written a fabulous book that has described the process of self-publishing.
It has tried to debunk some of the myths and clarify some over-hyped expectations. It will be a wonderful guide to the authors who are willing to step into the writings sector.
The author has explained everything in a lucid manner and tries his best to make it simple and feasible for the readers. It is a must-have book for the writers who are waiting for their book to be published. You will learn a lot of new things from the book that will really help in your future.

[Amit · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an aspiring author, I was certainly aware of the idea of self-publishing but I did lack the depth that I should be knowing when it comes to the pros and cons and the sidelines that we should ideally know. This book has filled that gap with its authoritative content and I am sure that now I am convinced what do I need to do in order to invest the minimum possible amount and make something out of it. Like me, I am sure that there must be many authors who can get benefited by reading this book.

[Abha Grover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not going to say that this is the final authority on the subject of self-publishing because it also deals with the issues of writing in general, publishing in general and promotion of a published book. However, because the author is an expert on the subject as he has been in the industry for more than 2 decades, you can say that there is authoritative information in the book about self-publishing and you cannot ignore it. All the best to the readers who are thinking of becoming a self-published author. You have got something to guide you!

[Rupesh Kashyap · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you think about self-publishing? Right now, this is the best option available for new authors who want to translate their dreams into reality. However, there are many nuances that we need to understand and which publishers don't want you to know. For all such queries about self-publishing and anything and everything about the publishing industry in general, you can refer to this comprehensive book by Nataraj Sasid and you will be prepared for the challenges and accomplishments through self-publishing... all the best!

[Ravi Gupta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find this book very useful for the new authors who want to understand all the sides of self-publishing before they make their decision. I would suggest that authors should read this book right before they think about publishing their works. The language is simple and the explanations are lucid.

[Avdhesh Anand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nataraj's book is a precise guide on self-publishing, book marketing and also writing a good book. He begins with the basic knowledge on how to write effectively and goes on to describe how to publish a book in self-publishing mode and why that is a good deal these days. You will like the book if you are interested in publishing. The marketing chapters might have been updated a little.

[Shaoni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every writer dreams of becoming the next best-selling author, isn't it?
The author knitted the words beautifully and stated that a good writer dives into the ocean of words and brings the pearls with simplicity for everyone to understand. One needs to just pour their hearts out on paper and fly somewhere beyond the horizon of imaginations.
Do you think writing the book is the only task here? As a writer, you aspire to get your book published whether it's traditional publishing or self publishing.
The author penned down the important tips to become a good writer and what does a good writer mean? Someone who can create magic with their words that touches your heart and you feel connected to each and every letters.
The author doesn't fail to collect experiences of budding authors ,stating that its okay to face strong criticism from the readers but its definitely not okay to give up.
The writer's words need to be heard and for this, the book has to be published and promoted.
I never knew the term 'self-publishing' till I read this book. The author states what publication is all about , the differences between traditional publishing and self publishing & the disadvantages of working with a traditional publisher.There's no direct way to achieve the pinnacle of success but if you have great content and design and know all the possibilities while dealing with self-publishing , you will be able to do it. The book touches upon Kindle Direct Publishing , KDP Select and many more. This is a must read book- a book for one who aspires to be a writer one day.
I personally loved the book and I would recommend you to pick this book up to venture into the world of self-publishing.❤

[S.Readss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do the writers job ends after writing? No, of course not. After writing starts another journey of publishing the book.
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This book is like an ultimate guide that will tell you about all the aspects of publishing, marketing, promoting and selling. There was so much I was unaware about, and I am so glad that I got this book and read it.
The book starts with a descriptive comparison between self-publishing and traditional publishing. It takes you through the process of both and tells about the advantages and disadvantages of both.
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There are some mind-blowing facts included in the book like:
- Using Amazon’s publishing service Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), you can publish an e-book, and it will be on sale in around 24 hours.
-On average, a new Kindle e-book is now published every 3 minutes.
And many more.
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It also throws light on features like e-books, audiobooks, print-on-demand services, Kindle etc.
Overall this book is quite informative and all the book lovers out there should give it a try. I can bet you will end up learning new things.

[Kevin Mallik · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for all authors who want to make it big in life! Just like other fields, publishing industry too require its aspirants to go through it, to understand it, and make best use of it. This one good book in today's time that can make you do all. More than a guide, this book takes readers to the strategies and tools and resources that can help one to publish wisely and promote books like anything.

Reading this book followed by implementation means getting results. A brilliant book that tells a lot about glory and murkiness of the publishing industry, it will help authors to chase their dream of publishing and marketing their books. Short and crisp and to the point! Easy to read and understand!
Realistic and Insightful for all the Authors in the World. Great on advice and relevant content!

[Muthulakshmi Mahesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Self-publishing expectation vs reality is a wonderful book that is highly recommended for the budding authors as this book dives us to get insights about the writing tools and techniques slowly it moves us to explore the difference between self-publishing vs traditional publishing methods, in addition to it, it flaunts us the advantages and disadvantages present in it. Some tricks to reach the targeted audience, the right kind of marketing was also elaborated in the forthcoming chapters. Furthermore, in what ways is it possible to publish the books were also mentioned. I found this book to be very informative as it conveyed to me many things that I was unaware of until now. So this book is going to teach us all the things that are prerequisites in order to top our published book to be a best seller.

[Ayush Ayush · Rating 4 out of 5]

A groundbreaking book on self-publishing, especially. It also sheds light on other forms of publishing, but self-publishing has been the main focus of the author. I read this book with keen interest as may be in near future I self-publish my debut novel.

The book is full of resources and strategies and tools, all handy for new and first-time authors. The information is presented in well manner and with some good examples, short yet powerful. One must look into it if planning to publish a book.

[Abhishek Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you want to publish your book? Or you are worried about self-publishing and its complex nature? Nataraj has answers to most of your questions in his debut book. Self-Publishing: Expectations vs Reality will be a smoother for everyone who is interested in publishing a book on his own. I liked the simplicity with which the book has been written and also the nature of this book which is not intellectualising the issues but rather simplifying them for the greater good of newcomers in Indian literary industry who want to create a space for themselves. I would say it is a self-help book for writers to be.

[Rahul Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

You should read this book only if you are interested in getting published some day or just in knowing about the publishing and writing industry in general. The author has been candid about the very profession he has been actively involved in for more than two decades already. Nataraj has experiences to share and he has done it well.

[Rani Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Putting it out in simple words, the author tells you a few golden tips on how to write your book, how to publish your book and how to sell your book. He is telling the newcomers in writing about the ways they can make sure the manuscript becomes the best version of itself before it goes for printing. After that, how and why to choose which mode of publication – traditional or self or go digital and ultimately, the author tells you how to market your book to make sure it reaches the target audience. You will enjoy this book and also learn from it if you are going to be a first time author soon...

[Naman Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though the book may lack on different fronts, it has enough material to guide the readers with a basic idea of what self-publishing is and how not to get cheaters your way and how to keep your money safe from publishers who come looking for your wallet when you are just a newcomer into writing!

[Nilesh Ranjan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in a short and succinct way, the book tries its best to do what the author might have intended it to do. It tries to make the concept of self-publishing clear to the authors who have not yet published anything or did not go beyond their debut works. Nataraj has done well one the ground of exploring the world of self publishing and opening up to some of the insider secrets because he has been working in the publishing industry for more than 2 decades now... the readers will certainly get an advantage of this. However, he could have done way better in writing tips and marketing ideas.

[Simran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Am I a writer? Why should I read this book? Initially I had no idea whether I should go for it or not but then I thought to give it a try and trust me I got to learn a lot from this book.
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People interested in writing have surely thought about publishing their own book someday and dreamt of becoming a bestseller. During earlier times it took a hell lot of struggle and time for the writers to find a publisher and get their book published but now the concept of self publishing has made everything much simpler about which you are going to read in this book.
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First of all the author gives an insight about how to be a good writer and the tips given by him will definitely help you. But do you think if you write well then you will become successful? There are hundreds of budding and even experienced authors who are good at writing but are unable to make a hit. The author has put forward few points which should be known by the authors before publishing their book and the importance of planning too.
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I heard about self publishing but had no idea about what exactly it is and how it carried out but now I am glad that I read this book which helped me learn about publishing a book myself along with its advantages and disadvantages, plans, failures,capital requirement and much more. The author has talked about how to sell or promote our books and how the concept of ebooks have changed the scenario.
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Personally I really found the book quite informative and I am sure the knowledge will definitely help me someday. I got to learn a lot of things which is unknown to a lot of writers out there. This is a must read book for aspiring authors and even the ones who are already in this field but failed to leave their mark.

[Manisha G · Rating 5 out of 5]

|| BOOK REVIEW || - 🍁 The book, Self-Publishing ~ Expectations VS Reality By Nataraj Sasid, is a Perfect Pick for An Aspiring Author.
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

🍁 The Book Covers Topics Such As,
1.) Becoming a Good Writer
2.) Why Proofreading and Editing is Must.
3.) Details on Various Options Available for Publishing.
4.) Insights on Self-Publishing.
5.) How and Where can a New Author can Publish his/her Work Through Self-Publishing.

...And Many More....
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

🍁 These Topics listed above are just few to let you decide whether this book could help you or not in your journey of being an author.
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

🍁 Whether the reader is already a Published Author or wants to be one in future, this Book is a Must Read. Without having a Second Thought, Invest your Precious Time in Reading This Gem.
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

🍁 However, If someone does not aspire to become an author then this book would be of no value for him/her.
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

|| PERSONAL INSIGHT || - 🌸 The Book, Self - Publishing ~ Expectations VS Reality, is such a Brilliant Work. By reading this book, I have gained a lot of value.
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

🌸 The book can be read whenever someone decides to be a Published Author. Each chapter is written on different aspects of becoming an author. The Language is very Captivating and Fast-Paced. The Title is Catchy and Appropiate. The Cover is Simple Yet Attractive.
🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂 🍂

🌸 For Everyone who is a Writer or Wishes To be One in Future, this book is a Must Read for you.

[Ritu Mehta · Rating 5 out of 5]

#𝑸𝑶𝑻𝑫: 𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒌𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔?

💙𝘐 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘬𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘺𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺.

𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬: 𝘚𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨:𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘷𝘴 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺
𝘎𝘦𝘯𝘳𝘦: 𝘚𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘱
𝘙𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 :⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🍂This book is an ultimate guide to authors.Nataraj Sasid has an enormous experience in Publishing Industry.Based on his experience, he has made an attempt to guide the authors with respect to Publishing.
🍂Only writing a book or a manuscript doesnt help,there is a lot more to it to make your book.
🍂Authors can go for either Traditional or Vanity Publishing but they must know the advantages and disadvantages of both the types of publishing.
🍂Self Publishing is actually a cost effective way and there are many advantages to it.
🍂This book also mentions about digital self publishing Platforms.Some authors also get confused,as to the format of the book to be published.
🍂This book gives all the answers from the editing the book to the format of the book to be published.
🍂Thanks to @thegreatindianbooktour forproviding this book.It gave me a lot of insights which I never knew😊

💙Recommended to all the authors and writers out there💙
Happy Reading😊

[Afiya zannuba jaleel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique book for writers who have been waiting and passionated about getting published. Nataraj Sasid has provided all available markets and tools we could approach and helps to learn how to mould us ourselves into stage of getting self published.
In this generation with technical gadgets it has been much easier for anyone to handle and use just with enough guidance. Also the author distinguishes us how self publishing is different from traditional publishers and vanity publishing too. This book will help to solve many of the uncleared decisions we had from the start of writing and stage of publishing.
Author have beautifully expressed on how to be a good writer and also how to reach readers with our books. We will be able to find how much he researched and have experience inorder to write a book on self publishing, since it is a new method of publishing cost effectively. The chances and current benefits of audio publishing is very helpful for the writer to have recognition in the early period since its an emerging one.
Overall I had a good read, with simple words, titles and attractive book cover. I highly recommend this book to every writers who are very much wishing to get title of an author.

[Shradha · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great, quick introduction to the world of self-publishing. This is the book you better read, Whether you are a perfectionist, procrastinator, undecided or lacking knowledge what, how and when to do it. This book with the intriguing title  will give you a dose of encouragement and advice you might lack and need for your success. Try it, read it, think it over, and try it again by acting upon it. Maybe you’ll become one of those authors who don’t fail anymore!

I think most authors would benefit from reading this book. It’s not super long and is easy to get through. I enjoyed the presentation, content and flow of the information the author presented. Not only was it easy to read, it gave an honest view point on the fails of self publishing. This is a book that I will refer to again and will be recommending to friends and family members wishing to publish and/or evaluate their existing procedures. This is a fantastic and perfect short book that explains the basics of self-publishing which is suitable for new and established authors.