Join The Fight To Give Self-publishers An Even Playing Field
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Writing.
Join the Fight for Equality for Self-Publishers
Leveling the Playing Field
Are you a self-published author frustrated by the barriers faced in the literary world? Whether it's being sidelined by reviewers, excluded from contests, or overlooked at conferences, the challenges are real and pervasive. It's high time we unite as self-publishers to combat these biases and claim our rightful place in the writing community.
To be clear, this isn't about giving a free pass to poorly written or unedited books. Quality should always come first, but judgment should be based on the content, not the publishing method. It's unfair to dismiss a book simply because of its publishing background without even giving it a chance.
Debunking the Myths
Many assume self-publishing is a last resort for authors who can't secure traditional deals. That's not my story. I chose to self-publish my mystery novel, TOO NEAR THE EDGE, through my family’s company, PMI Books, without even approaching traditional publishers. This decision was informed by my prior experience: my self-published nonfiction book sold over 50,000 copies and is now in its 4th edition, while my traditionally published work sold about 5,000 copies and is now out of print.
My novel has received positive reviews online and even won a silver medal for best regional fiction in the 2007 Independent Publisher Book Awards. It's readily available on platforms like Amazon. However, selling it requires relentless promotion, thanks to the persistent bias against self-published work.
Challenging the Status Quo
It's understandable that reviewers, inundated with around 800 new books daily, must make choices. Yet, much like an exclusive NYC club, access often depends on who you know, rather than the merit of your work. Reviewers should focus on evaluating books, not their publishers.
Self-published authors also face obstacles at conferences. For instance, when I tried to participate in the "Left Coast Crime Convention" (LLC), a regional mystery event, I discovered I couldn't even be considered an author. Requirements dictated I must either have substantial financial success or win major accolades. Despite being reputable and belonging to PMA, my publishing company doesn’t meet the rigid criteria to be on their approved list.
Attempts to leverage my IPPY award for conference access were met with rejection, as such honors aren't recognized. This outdated, unfair system excludes authors based on arbitrary metrics, not the quality of their work.
A Call to Action
These prejudices are unfair and shortsighted. We must rally together to dismantle the barriers faced by self-publishers. I’ve launched a new blog, The Populist Publisher, as a platform for change. I invite fellow self-published authors to unite and reshape our image.
Together, we can influence opinion, highlight quality work, and ensure self-publishers receive the recognition they deserve. Join us in this essential movement and help forge a more inclusive literary community.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Join The Fight To Give Self-publishers An Even Playing Field.
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