Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: What’s Best for Your Book?
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Writing a book is a major accomplishment—but deciding how to publish it is just as important. Do you pitch literary agents and publishing houses? Or do you self-publish and take full control?
Both options have their strengths and challenges, and the right choice depends on your goals, timeline, resources, and vision for your book.
At Bestsellers with Brooke-Sidney™, we guide authors through the publishing process that aligns with their mission and message. If you’re torn between self-publishing and traditional publishing, this post breaks down the key differences to help you make a smart, strategic decision.
1. Creative Control
Self-Publishing:
You call the shots. From your cover design to your title, page layout, and marketing message—everything is up to you (or the professionals you hire). You retain complete creative control and can release your book when you’re ready.
Traditional Publishing:
The publisher has the final say on many creative decisions, including your book’s title, cover, and editing. While they offer expertise, it may come at the cost of your original vision.
👉 Choose self-publishing if you’re a visionary who wants your message and brand reflected in every detail of your book.
2. Publishing Timeline
Self-Publishing:
You can publish in a matter of months. Once your manuscript is ready, the timeline is in your hands. This is ideal for authors who want to capitalize on current events, product launches, or business milestones.
Traditional Publishing:
It can take 1–2 years (or more) from securing an agent to seeing your book in stores. The timeline includes querying, contract negotiations, editing rounds, and scheduled release dates.
👉 Choose self-publishing if speed to market is important to you.
3. Royalties and Profits
Self-Publishing:
You keep more of the profits. With platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark, authors can earn up to 70% in royalties. After covering your publishing costs, the majority of the income is yours.
Traditional Publishing:
Authors typically receive an advance (which may be modest) and 10–15% royalties—after the publisher has recouped the advance and expenses. Unless your book is a bestseller, most authors earn less per sale.
👉 Choose self-publishing if you want higher earnings per book and you’re willing to invest upfront.
4. Distribution and Credibility
Self-Publishing:
Your book is available worldwide through Amazon, Barnes & Noble online, and other platforms. While there’s growing respect for high-quality indie books, some media outlets and bookstores still favor traditionally published titles.
Traditional Publishing:
Your book may be stocked in physical bookstores, libraries, and airports. There’s still an element of prestige tied to being published by a “Big Five” or well-known imprint.
👉 Choose traditional publishing if bookstore presence and literary prestige are top priorities.
5. Marketing and Promotion
Self-Publishing:
You’re responsible for your book’s marketing—unless you hire help. That means creating a launch plan, securing interviews or reviews, and driving sales through social media and email lists.
Traditional Publishing:
Even traditionally published authors are expected to promote their books. Unless you’re a celebrity or have a major deal, most marketing will fall on your shoulders, too.
👉 Whichever route you choose, a strong author platform is key—and Bestsellers with Brooke-Sidney™ can help you build it.
So… Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Choose Self-Publishing If...
Choose Traditional Publishing If...
You want creative control
You want literary prestige
You need speed to market
You have time for a long process
You’re entrepreneurial
You prefer traditional gatekeepers
You’re ready to invest upfront
You want a potential advance
At Bestsellers with Brooke-Sidney™, we support both publishing paths—and we especially empower first-time and busy professionals to self-publish with excellence. Our boutique services cover ghostwriting, editing, coaching, design, and launch strategy so your book not only gets published—it gets noticed.
Final Thoughts: Empower Your Publishing Journey
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to publishing. The best path is the one that honors your goals, your timeline, and your truth as a writer.
Whether you're ready to self-publish now or exploring your options, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
📅 Want help deciding what’s best for your book?
Schedule a Book Chat with me today and let’s map out the right publishing plan—so you can go from idea to impact, faster and with support.