Why I Self-Publish

1. I tried my shot at traditional publishing and it didn't work for me. This should be the ultimate reason.

2. Traditional publishing is notorious for running at a glacial pace. If it's going to take years for my book to be in people's hands, submitting the "timely, relevant manuscripts" agents/publishers want is a waste.

3. The mere concept of a writing agent is a frankly ridiculous concept. Why do I have to pay someone to schmooze publishers when I could just do it myself? Because I don't have a track record? It's gatekeeping.

4. As much as traditional publishers preach that they only look for "strong original voices," they only chase trends and want stories that tick boxes.

5. Why do only five publishing houses control the market anyway?

6. Indie presses are just as snobby and gatekeepy.

7. Vanity presses are scams.

8. Why should I be comparing my book to another one in my cover letters to agents? Shouldn't my story stand on its own? See number 4.

9. Even if I get published through a Big Five publisher or an indie press, I still have to spend my own time and money to market a book myself.

10. Getting into a major retail bookstore is not as big of an achievement as many think. One can technically do it while being self-published, albeit much harder.

11. Being traditionally published does not equal instant stardom.

12. Amazon dominates the book market. Why not cut the middleman and sell directly there on top of other online retailers?

13. I can communicate with readers the way I want.

14. I get the final say on the content and design.

15. I can experiment and not get shot down.

16. Honestly, designing book covers is fun.

17. I may not get the most sales, but I sure get more royalties.

18. I don't have to write under a pen name when I switch genres.

19. I have trust issues.

20. I'm selfish.

21. I have little patience with people.

22. I love it. What more do you want me to say?