Self-publishing with CreateSpace
@SpikeTheLobster (6403)
December 10, 2011 9:11am CST
As some of you know, I'm in the process of publishing my first (real) book. I've done ebooks before - both paid and freebies for my blog - but this is actual POD (print on demand) publishing with a paper result as well as the electronic version.
I'm using CreateSpace, which is Amazon's POD service, so that I'll be distributed through all their channels. No cost for the basic service, though I've opted for some of the pro options since they're pretty cheap, especially compared with the price of hiring an editor and cover designer!
I've been sending emails to the mailing list of people interested in the book (or more likely interested in winning a free copy of it, but let's not be cycnical...!) keeping them updated with the progress.
I've just run into a BIG surprise, though. I uploaded and checked everything yesterday. It then goes into their checking system which is supposed to take up to 48 hours - I got the updated news today (so that's good). The BAD surprise came once I ordered a proof copy of the book (which you have to pay for but it's a good idea to get one before approving for final printing).
Delivery date: 27 January next year. OH NOES! It takes for EVER for them to send a proof copy.
I'm really disappointed because everything else has been really positive. I guess I could approve the print as-is, without seeing a physical copy but the perfectionist part of me won't do it. I'll keep the email subscribers happy with free advice and tips from the book while they wait. 
I just thought I'd mention it here in case anyone else is tempted to use their service. If you are, PLAN AHEAD!!
I just thought I'd mention it here in case anyone else is tempted to use their service. If you are, PLAN AHEAD!!2 people like this
6 responses
@inertia4 (27961)
• United States
11 Dec 11
I never heard of CreateSpace before. But I will keep this in mind. I do write poetry and maybe this will be a better bet the LuLu. I understand how you feel about the news. I am also a perfectionist and I need everything a certain way to. I do not blame you for waiting for the paper copy in order to approve the final work. It only makes sense. Thanks for the information.
1 person likes this
@SpikeTheLobster (6403)
•
12 Dec 11
Lulu works fine - I've used that for electronic publishing - but I really wanted the paper copy, partly so it's a "proper" book and partly so I get to hold something I wrote in my hands, which will be pretty awesome!
I just saw notification that it's been sent - I think they may have overestimated their delivery times. At least, I hope so!
1 person likes this
@SpikeTheLobster (6403)
•
12 Dec 11
It's about starting/building a part-time freelance writing career without doing all the marketing all the gurus say you have to do.
@SpikeTheLobster (6403)
•
12 Dec 11
Vague is sort of pretty much generally good.
Good news: it's already shipped. So either it's swimming from the US to the UK under its own power or they over-estimate the effect of Christmas post. Or it just takes a really long time... we'll see.
Good news: it's already shipped. So either it's swimming from the US to the UK under its own power or they over-estimate the effect of Christmas post. Or it just takes a really long time... we'll see.
@RebeccaScarlett (2532)
• Canada
23 Jan 12
Thanks for this info!
I'm not surprised, and six weeks actually doesn't seem that long to me, especially compared to the time it would take a major publishing house to get through all the of the preliminary publishing steps! Of course...compared to how long it would take if you didn't want a print copy, it would seem like forever!
@darapmonsta (653)
• India
12 Dec 11
It is nice that you are a perfectionist and you will only be satisfied when you will see how your book will feel in the hands of your audience. I am interested in reading your past PDF works can I get them?
1 person likes this
@SpikeTheLobster (6403)
•
13 Dec 11
A lot have been for clients (ghostwriting) so I don't know where (or if) they're available but the ones I've done for myself are on my blog, in the Free Stuff bit. The URL's in my profile, as you would expect. 
@SpikeTheLobster (6403)
•
13 Dec 11
I have a suspicion that it'll sell about 10 copies and disappear into obscurity, to be honest. But I'm glad I did it, anyway!
