Thinking about publishing your book but scared by what you’ve heard about self-publishing? You’re not alone. Many writers hesitate because of outdated myths floating around. Let’s break down 7 common lies about self-publishing and show you why it’s a smart, modern choice for authors like you.
Myth 1: Self-Publishing Isn’t ‘Real’ Publishing
Some people still believe self-published books aren’t “real” because they don’t go through traditional gatekeepers like agents or big publishing houses. This idea is outdated and unfair. Self-publishing lets you take full control of your work.
Platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital allow you to publish books that look and feel professional. These books are sold globally, just like traditionally published ones.
Take Andy Weir, for example. He first self-published The Martian as a free blog, then sold it as an ebook. Readers loved it so much that a traditional publisher picked it up, and it became a blockbuster movie. Today, thousands of authors skip traditional routes entirely and build careers through self-publishing. If your book is available for sale and readers enjoy it, that’s as “real” as it gets.
The truth? Self-publishing is a legitimate path. You don’t need approval from a publisher—only from your readers.
Myth 2: It’s Only for Writers Who ‘Failed’ Traditionally
Many think self-publishing is a last resort for writers who couldn’t land a traditional deal. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Today, authors choose to self-publish for its benefits: creative freedom, faster publishing timelines, and higher royalties.
Romance writer Anna Todd started writing her After series on Wattpad, self-published it, and turned it into a global hit with a Netflix adaptation. Similarly, sci-fi author Hugh Howey rejected traditional offers to keep control of his Wool series.
These writers weren’t “failures”—they saw self-publishing as a smarter way to connect with readers and earn more money.
Whether you’re a first-time writer or a seasoned author, self-publishing is a strategic choice. It’s not a backup plan—it’s a way to own your success.
Myth 3: Self-Published Books Look Cheap
People assume self-published books have poorly designed covers or typos. While this can happen if authors cut corners, it’s not the rule. With modern tools and services, anyone can create a polished book.
Platforms like Canva and Atticus offer easy-to-use templates for covers and interiors. Websites like Reedsy connect writers with professional editors and designers for reasonable prices.
Even freelancers on Fiverr or Upwork can create stunning covers for under $100.
Take The Maid by Nita Prose—originally self-published, it had a cover so eye-catching that a traditional publisher later acquired it. The lesson? A book’s quality depends on the effort you put in, not the publishing path you choose.
Myth 4: You Need Thousands of Dollars to Start
Self-publishing can cost money, but it doesn’t have to. Your budget is up to you. Many tools are free or low-cost:
- Writing/Formatting: Google Docs (free) or Kindle Create (free).
- Covers: Use Canva (free) or hire a designer on Fiverr (50–200).
- Editing: Swap chapters with writing groups for feedback, or use Grammarly ($12/month).
Even marketing can be affordable. Promote your book on social media, start a free newsletter with MailerLite, or join reader communities on Reddit. The key is to start small, learn as you go, and reinvest earnings from sales.
For example, fantasy author Michael Anderle launched his first book with a $100 budget. By focusing on reader engagement, he turned it into a 100+ book series and a seven-figure income.
Myth 5: Self-Published Authors Don’t Make Money
This myth ignores the financial upside of self-publishing. Traditional authors earn 10–15% royalties. Self-published authors keep 50–70% (for ebooks) and 30–60% (for paperbacks). That means selling fewer copies can still earn you more money.
Romance author Mark Dawson makes over $100,000 a month through Amazon ads and his email list. Nonfiction authors like Tim Ferriss or Rachel Hollis pair their self-published books with courses, speaking gigs, or coaching programs for extra income.
Success depends on treating your book like a business. Learn basic marketing, connect with readers, and write more books. Self-publishing won’t make you rich overnight, but it offers long-term earning potential.
Myth vs. Reality: Quick Comparison
|
Myth |
Reality |
| Self-publishing isn’t “real.” | It’s legitimate and reader-approved. |
| Only for “failed” authors. | A choice for savvy, independent writers. |
| Books look unprofessional. | Quality depends on your effort. |
| Requires huge budgets. | Start free and scale as you earn. |
| No profit potential. | Higher royalties = bigger earnings. |
Myth 6: The Book Will Sell Itself
Believing that your book will naturally find readers without any effort is a mistake. Even bestselling authors like J.K. Rowling had to work hard to promote their books. Here’s how you can take charge of marketing your self-published book:
- Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Twitter to share updates, behind-the-scenes content, and snippets from your book. Social media helps you connect directly with your audience and build a loyal following.
- Build an Email List: Create a mailing list to keep fans informed about new releases, discounts, or exclusive content. Offering a free chapter or bonus material in exchange for email sign-ups can attract potential readers.
- Run Amazon Ads: Use Amazon’s advertising tools to target readers who enjoy books in your genre. Even a small budget can help get your book in front of the right audience.
The key to success is consistency and effort. Without active promotion, even the best-written books risk being overlooked in today’s crowded market.
Myth 7: Self-Publishing Limits Your Reach
Some believe self-published books can’t reach big stores or global readers—this is false. Platforms like Ebooks2go send your ebook to major retailers (Barnes & Noble, Apple Books) and libraries worldwide. You’re not stuck selling only on Amazon. For physical copies, print-on-demand services print and ship paperback books globally as orders come in. No need to pay upfront for boxes of books or handle shipping yourself.
Audiobooks are also an option. Using ACX (Amazon’s platform), you can hire narrators or record your own audiobook, making it available on Audible, iTunes, and more. Libraries and schools often buy self-published books through distributor catalogs, too. In short, self-publishing opens more doors, not fewer.
You control where your book is sold, how it’s priced, and which formats are available. Traditional publishing might limit your creative or financial freedom, but self-publishing lets you connect directly with readers everywhere. Your audience isn’t smaller—it’s the whole world.
Final Thoughts
Self-publishing is flexible, empowering, and full of potential—if you ignore the myths. Whether you’re writing fiction, memoirs, or guides, it’s time to take control.
Don’t let doubts hold you back. Visit eBooks2go today for step-by-step guides, formatting tools, and expert support to launch your book confidently. Your story deserves to be read!