There is a constant debate about which road to publication to take and many people are as adamant in their views as if this was a political statement. It saddens me when I hear anger in voices of authors that feel so strongly, so much so that they can’t even listen to the other side.
I think this is wonderful time to be an author because there are so many opportunities. It is true that the market is changing . . . so quickly that it may be hard to keep up, but literally (no pun intended – well, maybe a little) everyone can be published if they want to be.
I hope that does not diminish the quality of work out there and I really don’t think it does. There has always been vanity publishers around if you just wanted to record your family reunion for dexterity. And there is nothing wrong with that.
My first novel was Indie published, and it was a wonderful experience. I researched dozens of Indie publishers and had a plethora of options. A lot was based on how computer savvy I was and how much I could do for myself. The second aspect of my decision was based on options to help me market once I was published.
For my newest WIP. I hope to persevere until I find a traditional publisher. Even through traditional publishing, I am finding options. I can query agents and let them find me a publisher. I can query directly to publishers, although those are typically smaller houses. The point is, I have choices. Choices depending on my goals. And so does every other author.
How do you feel about the debate? Can you see benefits to both sides? Can you choose one way or the other without belittling the other? What has your experience been when you expressed your publication choice only to find out the person you’re talking to felt strongly you made a wrong decision?
How can we as authors build each other up, support one another, regardless of which side of the publishing aisle we are on? What about as readers? Does it really make a difference to you if the book you love was published through a traditional Big-Five house or a small Indie publisher? Why would it? Your comments are appreciated.
Writing Under Fire 