What is BookBaby?
BookBaby is an online self-publishing platform that allows authors to publish and distribute their books in various formats, including eBook, print, and audiobook. The platform provides a range of services to authors, including book editing, cover design, formatting, and marketing, to help them create professional-looking books that can compete in the market. BookBaby also provides distribution services, which enable authors to make their books available for sale on major online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books, as well as to brick-and-mortar bookstores. BookBaby was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in Pennsauken, New Jersey.
Complete Self-Publishing Package: Not quite complete
Print Distribution: Good quality, priced impractically
BookBaby offers print distribution services that allow authors to make their books available for sale through online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other bookstores. While the print quality of BookBaby’s books is generally considered good, the pricing for print distribution can be seen as expensive by some authors.
BookBaby offers different packages for print distribution, and the cost depends on the number of pages, trim size, and other factors. Authors may also need to pay extra fees for services such as cover design, editing, and formatting. Additionally, there may be additional fees for shipping and handling, which can further increase the cost.
However, it’s important to note that while the upfront costs of print distribution through BookBaby may seem high, the platform provides a range of services that can save authors time and effort in the long run. BookBaby’s print-on-demand services mean that authors do not need to worry about storing and shipping their books, which can be a significant hassle and expense for self-published authors. Ultimately, whether the cost of print distribution with BookBaby is worth it will depend on each author’s individual needs and budget.
Ebook Distribution: Pay upfront, get more royalties later
BookBaby’s eBook distribution service requires authors to pay an upfront fee to have their eBooks distributed to online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and Kobo. The fee varies depending on the package chosen, and there may be additional fees for services such as cover design, editing, and formatting.
However, unlike with print distribution, authors who use BookBaby’s eBook distribution service receive a higher percentage of royalties. With BookBaby’s standard distribution package, authors keep 85% of their eBook royalties, while with the premium package, they keep 100%.
It’s important to note that the upfront fee for eBook distribution can be significant, and authors may need to sell a significant number of eBooks to recoup their investment. Additionally, while BookBaby provides a range of services to help authors create professional-looking eBooks, the quality of the finished product ultimately depends on the author’s writing and the quality of any cover design, formatting, and editing they choose to purchase.
Ultimately, whether BookBaby’s eBook distribution service is worth it will depend on each author’s individual needs and budget. It’s essential for authors to carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of using BookBaby’s services before making a decision.
Editing: Flat rates for anonymous editors
BookBaby offers editing services for authors who want to improve the quality of their manuscripts. The platform provides three types of editing services: copy editing, line editing, and developmental editing.
BookBaby’s editing services are priced based on the number of words in the manuscript and the level of editing required. The rates are flat, meaning that authors are charged a fixed amount based on the length of their manuscript and the type of editing they choose. The rates for editing services are available on the BookBaby website and vary depending on the type of editing and the length of the manuscript.
BookBaby employs a team of professional editors, but they do not disclose the names of their editors, so authors cannot choose to work with a specific editor. However, BookBaby guarantees that their editors are experienced and skilled, and they work to match each manuscript with an editor who has expertise in the relevant genre.
It’s important for authors to carefully consider the cost of editing services and to ensure that they choose the appropriate level of editing for their manuscript. While editing can be a significant investment, it’s an essential step in the self-publishing process and can help authors create a professional-looking book that meets industry standards.
Book Cover Design: Two basic options
BookBaby offers book cover design services for authors who want to create a professional-looking cover for their book. The platform provides two basic options for cover design: a custom cover design and a pre-designed cover.
With the custom cover design option, authors work with a professional designer to create a custom cover that reflects their book’s genre, tone, and content. The design process involves several rounds of revisions to ensure that the final product meets the author’s vision and satisfies industry standards.
The pre-designed cover option provides authors with a range of pre-designed cover templates to choose from. Authors can select a design that they like, and BookBaby will customize it with their book’s title, author name, and any other relevant information. This option is generally faster and less expensive than the custom cover design option.
The cost of cover design services varies depending on the type of design selected, the level of customization required, and the number of rounds of revisions needed. It’s important for authors to carefully consider their cover design options and to choose a design that reflects their book’s content and target audience. A professional-looking cover can help authors attract readers and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Book Cover Design: Two basic options
BookBaby offers book cover design services for authors who want to create a professional-looking cover for their book. The platform provides two basic options for cover design: a custom cover design and a pre-designed cover.
With the custom cover design option, authors work with a professional designer to create a unique cover that reflects their book’s genre, tone, and content. The design process involves several rounds of revisions to ensure that the final product meets the author’s vision and satisfies industry standards.
The pre-designed cover option provides authors with a range of pre-designed cover templates to choose from. Authors can select a design that they like, and BookBaby will customize it with their book’s title, author name, and any other relevant information. This option is generally faster and less expensive than the custom cover design option.
The cost of cover design services varies depending on the type of design selected, the level of customization required, and the number of rounds of revisions needed. It’s important for authors to carefully consider their cover design options and to choose a design that reflects their book’s content and target audience. A professional-looking cover can help authors attract readers and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
So what’s the bottom line?
BookBaby is a self-publishing platform that provides a range of services for authors who want to publish their books. The platform offers services such as eBook and print book distribution, editing, book cover design, and more.
BookBaby provides a professional and comprehensive self-publishing solution for authors who are willing to pay for the services they need. However, the cost of the services can be high, and some authors may find it impractical or expensive to use BookBaby’s services.
If you are an author who values convenience and professional quality and is willing to invest in your book, BookBaby can be a good option for self-publishing. However, if you are on a tight budget or prefer to handle some aspects of the publishing process yourself, you may want to explore other self-publishing options. It’s essential to do your research and consider your goals and budget before choosing a self-publishing platform.
BookBaby FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about BookBaby:
What is BookBaby?
BookBaby is a self-publishing platform that provides a range of services for authors who want to publish their books, including eBook and print book distribution, editing, book cover design, and more.
How much does BookBaby cost?
The cost of BookBaby’s services varies depending on the specific service and level of customization required. For example, eBook conversion services start at $99, while book cover design services start at $399. It’s important to review the pricing details for each service before making a decision.
What types of books can be published with BookBaby?
BookBaby accepts a wide range of book genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s books, and more.
Can I use BookBaby to publish eBooks and print books?
Yes, BookBaby provides distribution services for both eBooks and print books. Authors can choose to distribute their books in eBook formats such as EPUB, MOBI, and PDF, and in print book formats such as paperback and hardcover.
Does BookBaby offer editing services?
Yes, BookBaby offers editing services, including copy editing, line editing, and developmental editing. The cost of editing services varies depending on the length of the manuscript and the level of editing required.
How does BookBaby pay royalties to authors?
BookBaby pays royalties to authors via PayPal or direct deposit. The amount of royalties paid depends on the retail price of the book and the distribution channel used.
How long does it take for BookBaby to publish a book?
The time it takes to publish a book with BookBaby varies depending on the specific services required and the level of customization involved. For example, eBook conversion services can take as little as 10 days, while book cover design services may take several weeks.
Does BookBaby provide marketing services for authors?
Yes, BookBaby offers marketing services for authors, including website design, social media marketing, and email marketing. The cost of marketing services varies depending on the specific service and level of customization required.
Can I use BookBaby if I have already self-published my book?
Yes, authors can use BookBaby’s distribution services to distribute books they have already self-published. However, it’s important to review the terms and conditions of any previous publishing agreements to ensure there are no conflicts.
What is BookBaby’s refund policy?
BookBaby has a satisfaction guarantee policy for all of its services. If an author is not satisfied with a service, they can request a refund within 30 days of the service delivery date. However, the policy does not apply to certain services, such as book cover design and custom publishing packages. It’s important to review the terms and conditions for each service before making a purchase.