How to Self-Publish in South Africa

When it comes to self-publishing your book, I would say the first question you should ask is: What is my motivation for writing the story? Are you seeking fame or money? Perhaps it’s an inner calling or something close to your heart?

Whatever your reason – whether it’s a dream, a life experience, an educational piece or just because you want to, I’d say… go for it! But you may be wondering where exactly to get started - here are 8 simple steps on how to self-publish in South Africa.

Writing, illustrating and stapling little stories together is how I began.

A question to consider before you begin...

An important question to consider as an indie (independent) author is: Do I have a market? If the book is just for your family, you’re sorted! But if you’d like to earn some money, think about who you can sell to.

A great way to start is to build excitement with a Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok page. Let people follow your journey. And, hey, who knows? You might even get pre-orders.

8 Simple steps to self-publish in South Africa

And now for the steps…

1. Write your ENTIRE manuscript

You cannot begin your self-publishing journey without first having a manuscript to publish. Either you can motor away and get your first draft down or take a slower approach.

2. Find an editor

This can be expensive, but it is so important. An editor will help sharpen your story. Can’t afford one yet? Ask a friend or English teacher for help.

3. Make use of beta readers

Test your story on your target audience.

4. Find an illustrator

You could reach out to a talented student or friend. Another option is to search online for an established artist.

Designing a front cover

5. Visit your local printer or contact an independent publishing house

Choose a book that matches your vision as far as layout, colour, paper, fonts and sizes are concerned. Take this book to a design consultant at your local printer. This will help them have a clear idea of what you want. Harry’s Printers were able to assist me in obtaining and generating a barcode from the ISBN (International Standard Book Number) provided by the National Library, and I posted a copy for legal deposit.

There is also the option of using a company to assist you with the process, such as Quickfox Publishing.

6. Print the book - exciting!

Start small. Printing more copies reduces the cost per book, but I’d recommend a cautious first run. Start with 100 copies - you can always reprint.

7. Publish a digital version (ebook)

Another way many indie authors have found success is by publishing e-books online.

8. Hold a book launch

Invite your family and friends to a coffee shop or library to celebrate (and to get your first sales, nudge, nudge, wink, wink).

Book launch treats

Keep Going!

If this is your only book, you did it! Yay! If not, get going on the next one.

Another thing to consider is that, as a general rule, you can’t submit your self-published book to traditional publishers. However, you can self-publish and traditionally publish different books at the same time, making you a hybrid author.

Hopefully, I’m getting your fingers itching to write. So what are you waiting for? Get started today. You’ve got this!