I opened Beagle Books last year because I have learned the realities of the literary industry during the past couple of years. Many people ask me why a published author would chose to self-publish her books. Well the answers to this question are somewhat complicated but I will try to briefly explain them here.

1.Today's publishers do not do much to help authors get their books "out there" unless they are famous. An author is unlikely to become famous unless their books are "out there." So...I'm focusing on getting my books in the hands of the reading public rather than seeking personal satisfaction in saying that I am published.

2. Control - As my own publisher I can control everything about my book...everything! I like this and to me it is a huge advantage.

3. What publishers could once do that authors could not is now...in today's world...nothing much. With technological advances authors can print and distribute books without paying a publisher to do it. Of course, an author does not have the power of a New York publisher...but without a famous name these companies won't use theirr power for you anyways. So...I figure that I might as well do the work myself rather than pay someone else to do it.

4. Money - Publishers take a slice of the profits. The fact is this...if you want to promote your book(s) you need two things...time and money. Every dollar that you can save by doing things yourself is well worth saving because you'll need it to spend on promoting yourself and your book!

And so...today's published author...in all liklihood...may be better off as self-published...at least until they become famous!