The Journal
Self-publishing, explained plainly.
Honest guides on costs, process and choosing the right partner, from our Washington, DC studio.
Costs & Planning · 5 min read
How Much Does It Cost to Self-Publish a Book? A Line-by-Line Breakdown
Editing, cover design, formatting, ISBNs, printing and marketing — here is what each piece of self-publishing actually costs, and where you can and can’t cut corners.
October 2, 2026 · Read article →
Getting Started · 5 min read
How to Self-Publish a Book: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Authors
Ten steps that take you from a finished draft to a book on sale on Amazon — including the decisions most first-time authors don’t know they have to make.
October 1, 2026 · Read article →
Getting Started · 4 min read
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: Which Is Right for Your Book?
Rights, royalties, timelines, control and credibility — an honest side-by-side comparison of the two main paths to publication.
September 29, 2026 · Read article →
Memoir · 5 min read
How to Publish a Memoir: From Personal Story to Published Book
Memoirs carry unique challenges — real people, real memories, real risks. Here is how to shape, protect and publish your personal story.
September 25, 2026 · Read article →
Choosing a Publisher · 4 min read
How to Choose a Self-Publishing Company: 10 Questions to Ask Before You Sign
Rights, royalties, hidden fees and contract terms — the ten questions that separate a trustworthy self-publishing company from an expensive mistake.
September 22, 2026 · Read article →