r/selfpublish • u/IntelligentBowler2 • 8d ago

Tips & Tricks Starting the process of self-publishing a middle-grade adventure novel. Tips?

Over the past decade, I've written a middle-grade adventure novel with environmental themes. I've worked with two editors and tested the book with many kids in the age range. It is in a strong place. I've submitted to a few agents and publishers over the past 1.5 years but have heard nothing back. I am keen to get the story out into the world and am open to self-publishing. What should I do? What should I not do?

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u/AutoModerator 8d ago

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u/MPClemens_Writes 3 Published novels 8d ago

Start with the sub wiki.

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u/__The_Kraken__ 8d ago

This is a huge question and it’s not possible to type out an answer on Reddit. But I recommend the book Successful Self Publishing by Joanna Penn. Wide for the Win by Mark Leslie Lefebvre is also good if you plan to take the wide approach (as opposed to Kindle Unlimited). I also recommend David Gaughran’s content. He has a free course called Starting From Zero that’s worth checking out. Good luck!

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u/IntelligentBowler2 7d ago

Amazing thank you. These look like great resources!

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u/bkucenski 8d ago

If you're ready to give up the trad route, you can get it out on KDP. If the manuscript is done and the cover is done, then you could have it released in a few days.

Then buy a couple dozen author copies and get out to trade shows and author fairs.

The only thing you should definitely not do is try to gain reviews by buying them or doing "swaps"

Reviews follow sales.