Three unexpected things I experienced on my book publishing journey
Fourteen months ago, with a little prodding from my two daughters, I started on this journey to share my little story, There Was a Zookeeper, with the world. I’ve always liked a good challenge, and hey, if I can survive nursing school with two children still in school as well, I can publish a children’s book, right? I’m here to tell you that neither one of them is easy. They both brought on unexpected tears and sleepless nights. I want to share with you three unexpected things I have experienced on my book publishing journey so far (the good, the bad, and the ugly).
Let’s start with the ugly.
Amazon. Hey, hear me out here. I will be the first to admit I love shopping on Amazon and would be lost without it. But as a self-publisher, it’s not necessarily my friend. You see, There Was a Zookeeper is my story. A gift to my daughters and granddaughters to hand down for generations to come. I did months of research. I hired an illustrator. I hired marketing help. I built a social media following. I attended an out of state educational summit. I paid substantially for the offset printing of my hardback books. While holding down a full-time job, I poured my heart and soul into this book on weeknights and weekends for over a year. Now I have to set up an account with Amazon (not free or easy) and I have to consistently run Amazon ads (not free or easy) to get the word out beyond my local supporters. Amazon is only going to pay me 45% of my list price for books that I have to pay to ship to them. Subtract the cost I paid per book to print, and that $19.95 retail price has dwindled to pocket change.
Next, the bad.
Bad might not be the best word here. It’s more like the struggle. I need more time in the day. I need more sleep at night. I need to find a place to store 3,000 books in my home. I need to realize that not all of my book related ideas are going to be welcomed with open arms by the community. I need help understanding eCommerce channels and algorithms. I need an accountant. I need to let go of worry. Oh, I could use a week by the ocean, too.
Most importantly, the good. It’s more like the GREAT!
I did it! I published my first children’s book (launching any day now)! The journey was worth every step, every stumble, every stressful detour, every penny. The most amazing part has been the people who I have crossed paths with along the way. People who truly care about my book and its success. People who have renewed my faith in humanity. These same people never even knew I existed fourteen months ago.
I would like to give a heartfelt shout-out to the following:
Alexey, my illustrator. Crossing paths with you has opened my eyes to a country in turmoil many continents away. Your talent and creativity, your kind soul and your resilience, are a true inspiration to all!
Jacie, my “marketing girl”. You always have my back on a moment’s notice and have helped open media doors that I would have never had the time or energy to do myself, all while juggling a career and twins!
Jay, the indie authors fearless leader! Never before have I met a CEO of a company who takes such a personal, hands-on approach in seeing that we all succeed. You and your team are always just an e-mail away, and your guidance and educational avenues have been priceless!
My journey is far from over, though it’s getting ready to take a different path. A fun path that includes sales, school visits, fairs, book signings, and more sales! And if I’m lucky, maybe a little peace of mind.
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