The Book Publisher's Handbook

The Complete Guide to Launching and Growing Your Publishing Business

Sue Collier

• Publisher: Ulysses Press
• Year: 2026
• Topic: Business
• eBook ISBN:
  9781646048397
• Subtopic: Media & Communications Industry
• Index: Business

Demystify the publishing industry and learn everything you need to know, from business factors like inventory and cashflow to the minute details of book editing, design, and production, to become a successful book publisher.The book publishing world can be a daunting, confusing place, often filled with more questions than answers. If you're interested in self-publishing, what platforms should you use and how do you market your book to the right target audience? If you're launching your own publishing company, how do you create a P&L (profit and loss) statement to ensure your books and broader strategy remain profitable? Find all these answers and more in The Book Publisher's Handbook, a comprehensive resource for both aspiring and established independent publishers who want to master the ins and outs of the publishing process. This guide offers clear and actionable advice and equips you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in today's ever-changing publishing landscape. Inside you'll find: Essential tips on how to format manuscripts based on genre, including proper formatting, clean pagination, and professional presentation A breakdown of critical industry terms like royalties, advances, and distribution, and commonly used acronyms like ISBN, CIP, POD, and BISAC Comprehensive information on printing and production, including print-on-demand vs. traditional printing, paper types, trim sizes, binding methods, and color specifications How wholesale discounts and book returns affect your bottom line Proven book cover design strategies—typography, imagery, and layout—and how to collaborate with designers Traditional and digital book marketing tactics, including social media for authors, email lists, and book tours A complete overview of publishing contracts, copyright, and intellectual property How to manage subsidiary rights, translations, foreign rights, and adaptations And so much more! The Book Publisher's Handbook is your step-by-step guide to building a successful, sustainable book publishing business—from manuscript to market.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Title Page
• Copyright
• Dedication
• Contents
• Introduction
• Chapter 1 Book Manuscript Formatting Tips for Authors
• Chapter 2 The Language of Publishing
• Chapter 3 Printing Concepts and Specifications
• Chapter 4 Guide to Trim Sizes
• Chapter 5 The P&L as a Publishing Power Tool
• Chapter 6 Cover Design—The Art and Strategy of First Impressions
• Chapter 7 Pricing and Economics of Books
• Chapter 8 Marketing Options and Getting the Word Out
• Chapter 9 Distribution Channels Overview
• Chapter 10 Navigating Legal and Contractual Issues
• Chapter 11 Emerging Trends in Publishing
• Appendices
• Acknowledgments
• About the Author