We live in a global village—or so they say. The development and accessibility of the Internet have made it possible for us to read and check news, weather, and exchange rates in various countries, even those far away. However, let’s be honest. Not everything can be translated directly. Even though we can buy products made in other countries, it turns out that some things are more effective in smaller markets. Look at the publishing market. Who in the United States cares about what books are being published by Italians, Croats, Serbs, or Poles? Probably no one, except maybe a few people with specific ties to these countries. Perhaps they are descendants of migrants? Maybe they have unique interests?
Nevertheless, the book market is different from the grocery, everyday products, or household chemicals markets. A book is not the same kind of product. Describing the best self-publishing platforms in Poland or Germany for Americans is pointless. Therefore, in this article, you’ll discover the best platforms to help you publish a book in the English-speaking market. However, among these platforms, some also offer you access to other countries' markets. Here are the best self-publishing platforms:
- Kindle Amazon
- Apple Books
- Barnes & Noble Press
- WoodBridge Publishers
- Reedsy
What sets each of them apart?
KINDLE AMAZON
With this platform, you can publish content worldwide, as they offer publications in 45 languages! Once you publish your work, it will appear on the Kindle Amazon website within 72 hours. From that moment, you can start selling. An interesting option they offer is the ability to earn royalties (which means author’s compensation, in this case, you earn based on the number of pages read by users). Of course, to earn royalties, don't forget to register your book on Kindle Unlimited KDP Select. With this self-publishing platform, your earnings will also depend on the country in which you publish. The company also offers the possibility to publish your book as an audiobook or print it in paperback or hardcover (this offer applies only to books published in the United States and the United Kingdom; in those cases, you can also expect assistance with distributing your book to wholesalers and bookstores). Since they have a forum, you can join the community, share your thoughts, problems, connect with others, and ask questions. When your text is ready, Kindle Amazon also offers you the option to format and lay out your book in their application. You can then preview your work in electronic form. An interesting feature is the ability to configure ads to make them more personalized. With Kindle Amazon, as the author, you need to handle editing, proofreading, graphics, and the book cover on your own.
APPLE BOOKS
This platform allows you to self-publish ebooks and audiobooks in 190 countries (out of 194) and in many online bookstores. They offer a user-friendly sales panel. What’s important for you as an author? First, you register and confirm your registration. Then, you set up your bank account information, as the platform won’t be able to start selling your book without it—they simply won’t be able to send you your earnings. A unique and uncommon feature is that you can edit the content of your book even after publishing it. You’ll receive a monthly sales report. You can also read blog posts about book publishing and writing. If you don’t have time to read, you can listen to podcasts that are available as well.
BARNES & NOBLE PRESS
This platform offers a free account for authors. It is the only platform that offers you the highest profits from sales, and you will have full control over your work, including setting the price and promotions. With the calculator provided on the website, you can calculate your earnings, including for printed books. You’ll find calculations and prices for printing, covers, and paper. The offer also includes the possibility of printing your book. If you’re interested in marketing, formatting, or book design tips—you’ll find those too. Similar to Kindle Amazon, you’ll need to handle editing, proofreading, graphics, and the book cover yourself.
WOODBRIDGE PUBLISHERS
This platform stands out by offering collaboration with the author in editing, proofreading, and graphic design, as well as layout. You can take advantage of free consultations. A unique feature is the option of live online chat with a human, not a bot, which is a great convenience. You’ll receive professional help immediately without sifting through many pages of information. They specialize in ebooks and audiobooks, but they also offer the option to print your book. You can also request a folder with detailed steps in self-publishing, the offer, and a basic publishing language glossary. In the mentioned folder, you’ll find three packages for authors so you can choose the best one for you. Rarely do you come across an offer that includes literary critique and suggestions for improvements in feedback, but you’ll find that here. Additionally, you can translate your text into other languages. They work with the author to develop a marketing strategy, including social media campaigns. Your work can be distributed across various platforms, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble Press, and many others. The staff at WoodBridge Publishers won’t leave you on your own and will suggest the optimal price for your work. They also offer podcasts and articles about book writing, marketing, and advertising.
REEDSY
On this platform, you’ll find a blog with helpful posts and tips on writing, publishing, releasing books, and promoting them. You have access to a team of specialists who can help you—they are from different countries, so you’re likely to find help in your language. You can also review the experience and skills of your potential collaborators—editors, proofreaders, graphic designers—as they are registered on the platform. Just like with technical support, you have the option to choose specialists from different countries. Remember, each country has different typographic (book layout) rules. An interesting feature offered to you is an app that supports book writing. You can watch videos with expert advice and participate in courses for authors. This platform is widely covered in the media, including BBC News, The Guardian, Forbes, Bloomberg, and others.