BookBaby is an independent publisher that offers a range of services to help authors self-publish their books. Independent publishing, also known as self-publishing, allows authors to retain control over the creative process and make decisions about the final product, such as the cover design and layout. It also provides authors with the ability to get their books to market more quickly than traditional publishing.
One of the biggest pros of working with an independent publisher like BookBaby is the ability to earn higher royalties. Traditional publishers typically offer lower royalties to authors, while independent publishers offer higher royalties. BookBaby also has partnerships with many major retailers, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books, which means that authors' books will be widely distributed.
The company offers a range of services that authors can choose from, which allows them to customize their publishing experience to their specific needs and budget. These services include editing, formatting, cover design, and distribution to major retailers.
However, self-publishing also has its own set of cons. One of the biggest cons is the financial risk. The author is responsible for most of the costs, so the author has to bear the financial risk. Also, the author is solely responsible for the promotion, marketing, and sales of the book. Furthermore, some authors may find it difficult to get their books reviewed by reputable outlets, and may find it hard to get their books into bookstores and other physical retail outlets.
Another con is that the author has to be prepared to invest time and money in editing, formatting, cover design, and other elements of the publishing process.
Overall, independent publishing, using a service like BookBaby, can be a great option for authors who want more control over the creative process and the ability to earn higher royalties. However, it also requires more work and financial investment from the author, and may be more challenging in terms of promotion and distribution.