Publish: Understanding How to Distribute, Sell, and Share Your Book With the World

Light Up the World with Your Book—Publish it!

So you’ve written the book, formatted it, and protected it. Now what?

It’s time to publish your writing—not just for yourself, but to get it into the hands of real readers. Whether you want to sell your book online, give it away for free, or launch your own publishing brand, this stage is where your words finally take flight.

Publishing is more accessible than ever, but the options can be overwhelming. In this post, we’ll simplify the process and walk you through the major paths for self-publishing, platforms to explore, and the decisions you’ll need to make along the way.

What Does “Publishing” Really Mean?

At its core, publishing is making your writing available to the public. That could be:

• Uploading your book to Amazon

• Printing copies to sell at events

• Distributing free eBooks to build your audience

• Publishing poetry on your blog or a digital magazine

In today’s world, you get to choose how far and wide your work travels. But there are important steps to consider so you’re ready for success.

Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing

Most writers today choose self-publishing, especially for creative control, speed, and profits. But let’s break down the two main options:

1. Self-Publishing

You manage everything: formatting, uploading, pricing, and marketing. But you keep more rights and profits.

Pros:

• Full creative control

• Faster publishing timeline

• Higher royalty rates (up to 70% on Amazon)

• Can update your book anytime

Cons:

• You do all the work (or pay to hire help)

• No built-in marketing or distribution

• Must learn the technical side of publishing

2. Traditional Publishing

You submit your manuscript to a publisher (often through a literary agent). If accepted, they handle production and distribution.

Pros:

• Professional editing, design, and printing

• Bigger distribution network (bookstores, libraries)

• Advance payment (sometimes)

Cons:

• Can take years

• Lower royalties

• Less creative control

• Rejection is common

Bottom line: If you want speed, flexibility, and ownership, self-publishing is a powerful option—and it’s where we’ll focus this blog.

Where Can You Publish Your Book?

Here are some of the top self-publishing platforms to get your book into the world:

1. Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

• eBooks and paperbacks

• Huge global reach

• Free to use

• Offers free ISBN (with limitations)

Best for: Most new authors

2. IngramSpark

• Wide distribution to bookstores and libraries

• Print-on-demand options

• Requires your own ISBN

• Small setup fee

Best for: Authors who want print bookstore access

3. Draft2Digital

• Distributes eBooks to Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, etc.

• Free to use

• Friendly dashboard

Best for: Expanding beyond Amazon

4. Lulu

• Great for workbooks, spiral-bound books, and photo-heavy content

• Global print-on-demand options

Best for: Creative formats and special projects

5. Your Own Website

• Sell directly to readers

• Keep 100% of profits (minus payment fees)

• Great for bundle deals, coaching add-ons, or special editions

Best for: Authors building a brand or business

What Files Do You Need to Publish?

Before you upload your book, you’ll need a few things ready:

• Formatted interior file (.docx or .pdf)

• Cover design (front, back, and spine for print)

• Book description (used in online stores)

• Metadata (ISBN, title, subtitle, keywords, etc.)

• Price (retail and discounts if applicable)

Many platforms have step-by-step guides or templates to help you through this part.

eBook vs. Print vs. Audiobook

Should you publish an eBook, paperback, hardcover, or audiobook? Let’s break it down:

Format	Pros	Considerations
eBook	Low cost, instant delivery	Easy to distribute, but some readers prefer print
Paperback	Familiar, portable	Requires print formatting and cover wrap
Hardcover	Premium feel	Higher cost, great for gifts or libraries
Audiobook	Accessible, growing market	Requires voice recording and editing

Many authors start with eBook and paperback. You can always add formats later as your audience grows.

What About Bookstores?

To get your book into physical bookstores, you’ll likely need:

• Your own ISBN

• Distribution through IngramSpark or a wholesaler

• A professional-looking book (editing, cover, etc.)

• A marketing pitch or a local author connection

Many local bookstores support indie authors, but they want polished products. Always approach them with professionalism and gratitude.

Don't Let Fear Stop You From Hitting “Publish”

Publishing feels big because it is big. But it doesn’t have to be scary.

You don’t need a huge audience to start. You don’t need a fancy website or an expensive launch. You just need to be brave enough to say, “This matters—and I’m sharing it.”

If you're reading this, you're already further than most people who say, "I want to write a book someday." Keep going.

The Prompt Corner

The Prompt Corner is where you turn inspiration into action. These prompts are designed to help you reflect, explore, and move toward publishing your writing with purpose.

1. What would it feel like to hold your finished book in your hands?

2. Who do you hope your writing reaches and why?

3. Write a book description for your current or future project.

4. What publishing fear is holding you back? How can you face it?

5. What format (eBook, print, audio) feels most exciting to you, and why?

Try one or all of these prompts. Your words were meant to be seen—don’t keep them hidden.

Free & Paid Tools to Support Your Writing

This week’s tools are focused on getting your book published and distributed:

1. Amazon KDP – Publish eBooks and paperbacks to Amazon

2. Draft2Digital – Publish your book to multiple eBook stores

3. IngramSpark – Wide print distribution and bookstore access

4. Lulu – Self-publishing for workbooks and creative formats

Some links may be affiliate links. If you choose to use them, it helps support our website at no extra cost to you. Want more tools? Check out the full list in the Resources tab of our site.

Want more tools? Check out the full list of writing resources on the resource page on our website.

RESOURCES PAGE

Write with Us: Publish Your Work

Publishing your work is one of the bravest steps a writer can take. You’re no longer writing just for yourself—you’re writing to reach others. Whether you’re self-publishing your first poem or planning a series of books, know that your voice belongs out there.

Next week, we’ll explore Step 7: Share: Podcasting, Publicity & Book Tours. 

Once your book is live, it’s time to share it with the world in creative ways that go beyond just social media.

Until then, keep writing—and keep believing your work deserves to be seen.

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