Lulu.com are the biggest self-publisher outfit in the world. Unlike the old Vanity press organisations, Lulu have made self-publishing your book both easy and affordable.

So how do we start?

Well, firstly Lulu don’t offer editing services so before you decide to publish, you will need to hire the services of a professional editor. I will discuss editing in the next post.

OK, our book is ready for publication, what do we do?

The average crime novel is bound in what is known as “Perfect bound” covers. The pages are hot-glued together and the cover applied. This is the option you should go for.

Book length, allow 300 words to the page and you should be somewhere near the mark for standard typeface. For an average 85,000 word novel, you are looking at 280 pages or thereabouts.

Next you need to decide on the size of your book.

It must be me, but I’m not used to sizes quoted width x length. I had to go down the list until I found A4 to make sure this was the case.

The specifications you’ll need are

Pocket B&W, Perfect Bound (10.795cm x 17.463cm)

Order over 25 copies and Lulu offers a bulk discount.

So your book will cost for 25 copies equates to £6.14 per book ($10.13 US)

Then you’ll need an ISBN number. Lulu charge £70.00 for 10 ISBN’s (

You need to factor this cost into your final price. Lulu will then take a commission on  the sale.of 20%

Lulu also offer selling solutions including your own customised storefront.

Check out Lulu at http://www.lulu.com

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