Originally published at: Everything Kevin Kelly Knows About Publishing - TidBITS
At his blog, The Technium, Kevin Kelly writes:
In my professional life, I’ve had several bestselling books published by New York publishers, as well as many other titles that sold modestly. I have also self-published a bunch of books, including one bestseller on Amazon and two massive hit Kickstarter-funded books. I have had lots of foreign edition books released by other publishers around the world, including bestsellers in those countries. Every year I also publish a few private books to give away. I’ve contracted books to be printed in the US and overseas. I’ve sold big coffee-table masterpieces and tiny text booklets. Together with partners, I run some notable newsletters, a very popular website, and a podcast with 420 episodes. I accumulated followers on various platforms. I’m often asked for advice about how to go about publishing today, with all its options, so here is everything I have learned about publishing and self-publishing so far.
I suspect that I’m asked for advice about publishing much less than Kevin Kelly, who co-founded Wired magazine and has broad experience in publishing, but everything he says here rings true to my ears. I highly recommend that anyone considering a bookish endeavor read Kelly’s essay first.