SELF-PUBLISH...or use a PUBLISHER?? Pros and Cons?

Question

I have been writing an important health book for patients. It will have a large audience. I have been looking at the Lulu Self-publishing website. If I pay for at particular distribution package, it looks like my book will ONLY be on online book websites. But I need to reach people who don't use the computer, as well...i.e. regular bookstores!

I am attracted to the aspect that you pay nothing, and they get their income by a percentage of your sales. But I'm unclear if self-publishing via a site like that..and even their ability to bind the book in a quality way, works! And distribution ONLY to online bookstores concerns me.

Or should I use a publisher to get adequate distribution??

If you have experience with Lulu, or self-publishing..or even experience with regular publishers, please let me know all the ins and out. This is totally new for me.

Answer 1

Your work will carry much more credibility by having an established publishing house behind it. They'll also be able to provide promotional support, etc. Self publishing is ok, as a last resort. Pick up the Writer's Guide to find publishers, send a query letter and have sample chapters ready to submit. Good luck!

Answer 2

Try not to go with publishers who publish the so called, vanity books. they will make you sell your own work. Far easier to go with a good publishing house, who will showcase your talent. on late night TV, and book signing tours.

Answer 3

well, if u really want to reach out to people it seems that getting a publisher is the only way, however if u only care about the money and fame is ay u do it yourself

Answer 4

go to this guy's page he could offer his expirience as a self-publisher

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Aj7FFo4.zeUG4PuUlSXjXaXzy6IX?qid=20070104112406AAGNaB4