This thorough book methodically guides new or would-be authors through the tangle of what to expect when self-publishing a non-fiction book. From mindset to marketing, research styles to publishing choices, Joanna Penn has ensured the reader is left with a full awareness of best practice, what to avoid, how to plan, where to go next, often with links to useful information, websites, her own resources and podcast or external services. Each section is complemented with a series of questions that may help place your own situation with the chapters and consider your options in greater depth.
The section discussing imposter syndrome and fear genuinely resonated with me, and I found many words of support there. In addition, the tough line shared about needing to make a deadline and get on. How many times I've needed to hear that! Otherwise, our work will continue to fill the time we have available. So many useful gems. I never fail to find powerful takeaways from this author.
Despite already owning the first edition, I would suggest this second edition differs enough to warrant purchase. The chapter on memoir was of particular interest to me, as were the multiple ways in which we can use AI to support our roles as independent authors, essentially small creative business owners, moving forward.
I enjoyed listening to the audio version of this book, and as with all my audio books, I'll be back for more listens in the future! It's good to hear the book narrated by the author.
