Independent Publishing Company
If you are reading this, it is no coincidence. You are likely thinking about writing your book or you have already completed it and want to know how and where to publish. As an independent publishing company, we support authors at every stage of the journey.
Today, authors have more opportunities than ever to share their stories. Choosing an independent publishing company gives you greater control, flexibility, and creative freedom. In addition, independent publishing companies like AfroCentric Media House offer personalised support and professional book publishing services.
Traditional Launching
Traditional publishing involves signing a contract with a publishing house. In this model, the publisher manages editing, design, marketing, and distribution, while you focus on writing.
However, traditional publishing can be difficult to access. Many authors face multiple rejections before securing a deal with a publishing house or independent publishing company. This often happens because you are a new writer, lack established credentials, or do not yet have a proven audience. In addition, publishers carefully evaluate the market potential of each manuscript
Steps To Publish Traditionally
1. Find a Literary Agent or Independent Publishing Company – Most publishers prefer submissions through agents.
2. Submit Your Manuscript – Once your manuscript is complete and polished, you can submit it to a publisher.
3. Sign a Publishing Contract – If your manuscript is accepted, the independent publishing company or publisher will offer you a contract.
Self-Publishing
Self-publishing allows you to produce and sell your book without relying on a traditional publisher. When you work with an independent publishing company, you retain full creative and financial control over your project.
Platforms To Consider
• Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): The most popular platform for eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks.
• IngramSpark: Offers wider print distribution.
• Draft2Digital: Helps distribute eBooks to multiple retailers.
• Lulu: Ideal for custom formats like photo books or hardcovers.
• Smashwords: Focused on eBook distribution to global markets.
DIY Distributing
This is the most hands-on approach to self-publishing. You manage every stage of the process, including writing, formatting, book printing, and distribution. As a result, you have complete control over your book from start to finish without relying on an independent publishing company.
Tools To Help
• Grammarly: to help with spell checks.
• Quillbot: to help with paraphrasing and spell checks.
• Canva/ Photoshop/InDesign: Great for designing book covers.
• Kindle create: for book layout & typesetting on Kindle.
Choosing The Right Path
When deciding where to publish your book, consider the following:
- Your Goals: Is your priority creative control, prestige, or wide distribution?
- Your Budget: Can you afford upfront costs, or do you prefer a no-cost route?
- Your Genre: Certain genres perform better on specific platforms (e.g., romance on KDP).
- Your audience: is your audience tech savvy, do they have smartphones
