How can I publish my book as a high schooler?
Hello! I am a freshman in high school, and I am halfway through writing a book that I would really like to publish. However, publishing is expensive. Should I wait until I’ve graduated to try and publish? Could I potentially self-publish?
11 answers
Bamidele’s Answer
1. Publishing Costs: Traditional publishing can be expensive, but if you go the route of self-publishing, the costs can be lower, and you have more control over your book's production and marketing. You could also look into hybrid publishing, which blends aspects of traditional and self-publishing.
2. Self-Publishing: Yes, self-publishing is absolutely a viable option! In fact, many authors today start with self-publishing, and there are platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and others that make it easy. You can choose to publish an ebook, paperback, or both. The great thing about self-publishing is you can start immediately and there are lower upfront costs, though you’ll need to be proactive with the marketing and promotion of your book.
3. Experience: You have time to learn more about the publishing industry and get feedback from others on your writing. You might want to wait a bit to refine your book more, especially since you're still a freshman. That said, if you feel your book is ready and you're passionate about sharing it now, self-publishing could allow you to gain experience and maybe build a readership even before you finish high school!
4. Publishing After Graduation: If you’re set on trying traditional publishing, you could certainly work toward that goal during your high school years, but it might take some time to get an agent or find a publisher that is interested. The upside is that traditional publishing often provides a bigger platform and professional marketing support. However, waiting until after graduation may give you more time to refine your writing and focus on building a portfolio.
My Advice for you : Consider self-publishing as a starting point if you're eager to get your book out there now. It’s a good way to dip your toes into the industry, learn how publishing works, and gain a bit of a following. And you can always look for traditional publishing opportunities later on, once you’ve built your experience and confidence.
If you need more enlightening let me know
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for submitting your question to CareerVillage! It's awesome to hear that you are deciding to venture into the world of writing and wanting to become an published author! That's my goal too - I can't say that I know too much about the world of book publishing (I'm writing my first book which I will eventually publish) however, allow me to share with you a list of pointers that I've curated as I've learned more about the path to becoming an author.
Before I do so, I want you to know that I understand your concerns as it relates to feeling ready to publish versus waiting along with the dilemma of choosing traditional publishing versus self publishing. In saying that, congratulations on making the decision to share your work. It is a huge step for any creative, whether through writing or art or music, to put yourself out there - it takes a ton of courage! Still, the path to publishing isn't easy and will require a level of understanding before you embark.
Here are some potential benefits and drawbacks of traditional publishing versus self publishing.
- Traditional publishing may stifle your creativity by asking you to remove certain aspects of your book (i.e. key scenes, interactions, character flaws); Traditional Publishing gives access to more tools like editing, spell-proofing, market value information. To mitigate this situation, be sure to listen to your gut about your work. Only you the author can determine what can and should be removed. The people that work in the publishing firm can only guide you on what needs to change based on their expertise.
- As you've stated, traditional publishing is relatively more expensive than self publishing through a third party entity like Barnes & Nobles and Amazon. Choosing to publish through a third party site, means you pass over extra costs that may come from distributing your work.
- Traditional publishing may give you the upper hand by providing you with a small cash advance for choosing to publish under their firm. Whereas, self publishing invites a much longer wait until you see the monetary or true value (feedback and followership) that comes from putting your work out there.
If you need next steps, here's what to do.
Rebecca recommends the following next steps:
Lindsey’s Answer
Since you are so young, I suggest seeing if there are any classes or extracurriculars that your school offers to help you build your writing skills and learn from your peers and teachers about what makes a great book. For example, I took Creative Writing in high school and it exposed me to new forms of writing and really made me challenge myself, including sci-fi assignments and scriptwriting. You may find that the challenge such classes or programs offer make you a better writer and that you will be happy you put off publishing your work for a little while.
When you are ready to finish your book, consider getting feedback on an online site such as Wattpad or WritersCafe to make sure it's the best it can be. You can also have your friends and family read your draft, but I recommend also having a neutral and honest third party take a look so you can get a range of opinions on how your book is turning out.
If you do want to go the self-publishing route, you can do so fairly easily with programs such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. You might want to look into other aspects such as designing your cover (using tools such as Canva) and seeing if you can at least hire a professional editor or proofreader to review your work before publishing it to the wider world.
Above all else, make sure you never stop writing, and get practice any way you can, even if it's just writing a blog or a journal. Best wishes!
Lindsey recommends the following next steps:

James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
MY TAKE:-
AI Claims to be a capable of writing a book in half an hour - so it seems like it's a pretty dynamic tool to use. Grammarly can also make your work more fluent and readable so there's another positive thing to add to your quiver of arrows.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE:-
How to Publish Your Book as a High Schooler
Publishing a book as a high school student is entirely feasible, and there are several pathways you can take to achieve this goal. Below, I will outline the steps involved in both traditional publishing and self-publishing, along with considerations for each option.
1. Understanding Your Options
There are primarily two routes to publishing: traditional publishing and self-publishing.
Traditional Publishing: This involves submitting your manuscript to established publishers who will handle the editing, design, distribution, and marketing of your book. However, this route can be competitive and often requires an agent.
Self-Publishing: This allows you more control over the entire process. You can publish your book through platforms that enable authors to upload their manuscripts and distribute them digitally or in print.
2. Writing and Editing Your Manuscript
Before considering publication, ensure that your manuscript is polished. Here are some steps:
Complete Your Manuscript: Finish writing your book and ensure it meets your standards.
Editing: Consider seeking feedback from peers or teachers. You might also want to hire a professional editor if possible. Editing is crucial for clarity, grammar, and overall quality.
3. Researching Publishers or Self-Publishing Platforms
If you choose traditional publishing:
Identify Suitable Publishers: Research publishers that accept submissions from new authors or those that specialize in your genre.
Prepare a Query Letter: A query letter introduces you and your book to potential agents or publishers. It should include a brief synopsis of your work and why it fits their catalog.
If you opt for self-publishing:
Choose a Platform: Popular self-publishing platforms include:
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
IngramSpark
Lulu
These platforms allow you to publish both eBooks and print books with relative ease.
4. Formatting Your Book
Regardless of the publishing route chosen, formatting is essential:
For traditional publishing, follow the submission guidelines provided by the publisher.
For self-publishing, ensure that your manuscript meets the formatting requirements of the platform you choose (e.g., specific file types, layout standards).
5. Cover Design
A professional cover design can significantly impact sales:
If self-publishing, consider hiring a graphic designer or using tools like Canva for DIY designs.
Traditional publishers typically handle cover design but may welcome input from authors.
6. Marketing Your Book
Marketing is crucial regardless of how you publish:
Build an online presence through social media platforms where readers congregate (e.g., Instagram, Twitter).
Consider creating an author website or blog to share updates about your writing journey.
Engage with local bookstores or libraries for potential readings or signings.
7. Legal Considerations
As a minor (under 18), there may be legal considerations regarding contracts:
If pursuing traditional publishing, having a parent or guardian review any contracts before signing is advisable.
For self-publishing, most platforms have user-friendly agreements but still require careful reading.
8. Timing Your Publication
You do not need to wait until after graduation to publish; many young authors have successfully published while still in school. The key is preparation—ensuring that your manuscript is ready and that you understand the process involved in either route you choose.
In summary, whether you decide to pursue traditional publishing or self-publish depends on your goals as an author and how much control you wish to retain over the process. Both paths have their advantages and challenges; therefore, thorough research will help guide your decision-making process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Writer’s Digest
A comprehensive resource for writers offering advice on all aspects of writing and publishing including tips on querying agents and publishers.
2. Self-Publishing School
Provides extensive resources on how to navigate the self-publishing process effectively including marketing strategies tailored for new authors.
3. The Creative Penn
A well-respected blog focused on writing, publishing options available today including insights into both traditional and self-publishing avenues tailored for aspiring authors.
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Richard’s Answer
You can publish on Kindle but you have to be very careful to ensure your manuscript is spotless. The e-pub book software does spell-check your work. N.B. the paperback version does not do spell-checking for some obscure reason.
Editing, and marketing are the most expensive items. Perhaps you can get your English teacher to edit the Manuscript for you and the best student in Graphic Arts design might be willing to do the cover for you gratis in exchange for getting an acknowledgment.
Be creative in your approach to seeking the help you need.
Good luck
Richard
Victoria’s Answer
I would recommend that you finish the manuscript and focus on finding a good editor. If you do not have the financial backing you can submit your manuscript to a publishing house. They will cover the publication costs.
There are also organizations and programs to help new authors. Check out, we need more diverse books. I don't know the topic or genre of your book but that would be a great place to start and research other organizations.
You don't need to wait till you are older to publish, but it will take time and research to get it done no matter your age.
Best of luck on your publishing journey. Its a fun ride. Enjoy it.
Rich’s Answer
Hakeem Ola’s Answer
1. Write and Edit Your Book
- **Write Your Manuscript**: Complete your book and ensure it is well-written and engaging.
- **Edit Your Work**: Proofread and edit your manuscript for grammar, spelling, and content. Consider getting feedback from teachers, peers, or a professional editor.
2. Choose a Publishing Path
- **Traditional Publishing**: Submit your manuscript to publishing houses. This can be challenging but offers the benefit of professional editing, marketing, and distribution.
- **Research Publishers**: Find publishers that accept submissions in your genre.
- **Query Letter**: Write a compelling query letter to pitch your book to agents or publishers.
- **Literary Agent**: Consider finding a literary agent who can help you navigate the publishing process.
- Self-Publishing: Publish your book independently. This gives you more control but requires more effort in marketing and distribution.
- **Platforms**: Use platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Barnes & Noble Press, or Apple Books for Authors.
- **Formatting**: Ensure your book is properly formatted for eBooks and print.
- **Cover Design**: Create or hire someone to design an attractive book cover.
3. Prepare Your Manuscript
- **Formatting**: Format your manuscript according to the guidelines of the publisher or self-publishing platform.
- **Cover Design**: Design a professional-looking cover or hire a designer.
- **ISBN**: Obtain an International Standard Book Number (ISBN) if you are self-publishing.
4. Market Your Book
- **Social Media**: Use social media platforms to promote your book. Create a website or blog to share updates and engage with readers.
- **Book Reviews**: Seek reviews from book bloggers, influencers, and readers. Positive reviews can boost your book's visibility.
- **Local Promotion**: Promote your book locally through school events, local bookstores, and libraries.
5. Legal Considerations
- **Copyright**: Ensure your work is copyrighted to protect your intellectual property.
- **Contracts**: If you are working with a publisher or agent, carefully review any contracts to understand your rights and obligations.
6. Seek Support
- **Mentors**: Find mentors who have experience in publishing. This could be teachers, librarians, or local authors.
- **Writing Groups**: Join writing groups or clubs to get feedback and support.
- **Parental Guidance**: Involve your parents or guardians in the process, as they can provide guidance and support.
7. **Stay Persistent**
- **Rejections**: Be prepared for rejections and setbacks. Publishing is a competitive field, and persistence is key.
- **Learn and Improve**: Use any feedback you receive to improve your writing and future submissions.
Resources:
- **Books on Publishing**: Read books on publishing to understand the industry better.
- **Online Communities**: Join online communities like Wattpad, Goodreads, or writing forums to connect with other writers and get advice.
Michelle’s Answer
It's wonderful to know that you are writing and embarking on taking a few new steps for it !
You certainly can have your writing published, but first I'd like to share some advice with you. Start thinking about versatility. The more types of writing you can do, the greater variety in your portfolio, the better. You may be able to have some of your works published on online websites as well as on site publishing house companies when your book is completed. There are 52 publishers in Maryland and I left a link to a list for them below. I have also left some links below for websites on which you can add your writing and people will read it. The online websites are something that you can do now and when your book is finished, then you can explore the publishing companies. You certainly can self-publish your book but that will run into thousands of dollars, so price it once your book is done.
If you are interested in being a writer as a career, you can consider working on projects found in writer's trade magazines as well as through notices on Linked In and Indeed. You may consider writing articles, short stories, non-fiction and any other form that you discover by reading more about being a writer. If it's just that you only want to write novels, you will learn first hand about the business once your book is ready to submit to publishers. There is a website that lists magazines and others at which you can submit your work, too. If you want to write things in addition to the book you're writing now, check out Make A Living Writing dot com. There's a possibility you can freelance whenever you want. Since you are under 15, some websites will want a parent's authorization. Truelancer dot com is a website for writers under 18 years old, so that may provide some opportunities.
Responding to notices for writing projects can help you create a variety of work for your portfolio. Do feel free to return here if you have any questions. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best ! Have fun and never give up !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Saint’s Answer
That’s so awesome you’re writing a book! You don’t have to wait until you graduate to publish it. Self-publishing is a great option, especially if money is tight. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) let you publish eBooks or paperbacks for free they just take a small cut of your sales. I also write books (children’s books and a horror comic), and KDP is something I’ve been thinking of doing too!
My advice? First, finish your book, revise it, and get feedback from friends, teachers, or family. For your cover, you can use free tools like Canva. If you need help with editing, cover design, or formatting, check out Fiverr it’s a great site for hiring affordable freelancers. Just make sure to read the reviews before hiring anyone!
If money is tight, you could also try crowdfunding on GoFundMe or entering writing contests for young authors. Don’t let being in high school hold you back you’ve got this! 😊
Good luck,
Saint