Issues...by you and Answers...from Griffith Publishing

? Which is better, paper or screen, to publish my book?

A Paper works for books with more than 5,000 words, most reference works, serious nonfiction books, and books with a potential market of 500 or more.

Screen is great for action books with illustrations that move, short books, books for just a few people, and books with lots of full-color graphics.

? Why doesn't everybody use POD (print on demand) technology to produce their books? There's no inventory. Order only what you can sell. Fast turnaround. Full-color cover and attractive books. No major investment to lose if the books don't sell.

A POD works for under 500 books. After that it's way more costly. POD books are photocopies. Toner stickiness, loss of detail, and muddy photos are some of the possible problems.

? You've been working with self-publishing authors for more than 20 years. What are some of the biggest obstacles you see in launching a book?

A Writing a book without knowing ahead of time who wants or needs the book and how they can be reached. Boring or confusing writing style. A book with no message or helpful information. Foreign-sounding or cliche-filled text. Self-made cover designs.

? Should I watch out for unfair suppliers of publishing services? How should I protect myself?

A Self-publishing is loaded with people who care a lot more about their bank balance than yours. Follow your instincts. If the advertising promises fame, fortune or sales, don't believe it. If a service claims to have a team of first-class artists, editors, writers, designers, marketing experts, printing specialists and financial planners available to you 24/7 at no additional cost, run the other way.

Do you have other issues or questions about self-publishing? We'll take any of them on. Just call us at 800 359-9503 or send us email at hodi@mindspring.com. And check back here often for the latest advice.

Send email if you'd like to receive a free online email about these and other self-publishing issues. Send to hodi@mindspring.com.

Is your book ready to prepare for printing? Request a proposal.

Call us at 800 359-9503. Or send us email at hodi@mindspring.com.