Self-publishing and the quality of PNG literature


Self-publishing is a blessing in disguise for PNG writers. While CreateSpace and Amazon Kindle have made publishing hassle free, there are some downsides. One is the poor quality of editing and formatting of our published books. This gives a negative impression about PNG literature in general.

I was browsing through Amazon the other day, looking at books published by PNG writers, and one thing really struck me. So many of the book covers look horrible!

They look like they were designed by someone who has no idea how to use a computer. Some have very poor color contrasts. One has an orange sunset with yellow lettering. I couldn't even read it!

After selling over a hundred copies of my novel ‘Tama-gega: Fatherless Child’, I am far from been a ‘New York Times Best Seller’. I am not claiming to be a publishing expert but a book cover speaks volumes.

Maybe it’s not wise to judge a book by its cover, but really, what are you supposed to think when you see that? To me, the author either doesn’t care, or maybe the book itself just isn't worth it. I know I may have passed up a good book, but after that awful first impression, it’s hard for me to even think of buying it.

Another downside is the lack of collaboration between writers. I am fortunate to have friends who are artists, photographers, graphics designers and illustrators who are willing to help me with my book covers. I only buy lunch or give them a few bucks as a token of appreciation. I am also grateful to have good editors and critics who have helped me improve my writing over the years.

Beautiful book covers are what you need to get people to notice your book, pick up your book, buy your book, read your book, talk about your book and recommend your book to others.

Of course, it takes a fair amount of work and money to publish a professional looking book but it’s worth the effort if you want your book to sell. Sometimes it helps to look at self-publishing as what it really is - a business.

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