I know there are many Mefi references to self-publishing, but this question is a little different. Let me explain the background: [more inside]
posted by mateuslee on Apr 27, 2009 - 7 answers

Inspired by the Tweetbook I've decided to use Lulu to make a print version of my high school-era livejournal. How do I easily turn the XML file with all of of my entries, comments, and associated metadata into something I can print? [more inside]
posted by Newbornstranger on Apr 8, 2009 - 1 answer

I've been asked to contribute to a collection of op-ed/essays/creative nonfiction type stories, to be published together as a book. I have no idea how this stuff works, but I know the release form says I won't get paid. Anybody have any experience with this kind of thing? Is this a normal clause for a first-time author who barely even counts as an author? [more inside]
posted by ultraultraboomerang on Sep 29, 2008 - 6 answers

What are some places online where I can go to self-publish a book. I'm aware of lulu.com, but I'm wondering if there are some alternatives out there.
posted by Proginoskes on Mar 23, 2008 - 14 answers

What book writing software exists for Max OSX? [more inside]
posted by Chuck Cheeze on Nov 28, 2007 - 6 answers

How do you get a book published by a (semi) major publisher as a first time author? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Jul 8, 2007 - 13 answers

Once I've made my sci-fi novel available via Lulu.com, will it still be viable to shop around to agents and editors for potential mass-market publication? Are there factors that influence it? For example, if it sells a lot, is it considered a good buy by a publisher, or has it basically had its first run?
posted by JWright on Dec 8, 2006 - 9 answers

Where should I search in order to generate a list of all/most books published (in English, for the past 20 years or so) about a particular topic? I have a feeling that using Amazon plus my local library isn't giving me comprehensive results. Is there some kind of all-libraries database? Or all books that have been issued ISBN numbers?
posted by xo on Dec 2, 2006 - 6 answers

I want to produce some books. I've read some previous questions in the archives but I'm after some more opinions, and have a few questions relating to ISBN numbers, publishing and other book-type things... [more inside]
posted by gaby on Mar 3, 2006 - 5 answers

Scenario: Linda, an author, is at a party. Linda says that she is writing a book about near-death experiences. Sarah, a guest at the party, says, "Oh, I had one!" and proceeds to recount her experience to the assembled guests. Linda finishes writing her book and includes Sarah's story in it, using Sarah's real first name and some details from Sarah's life (profession, husband's first name and profession, Sarah's religious background). Is Linda legally allowed to do this without changing Sarah's name in the published book? Did Sarah waive her right to privacy by telling the story at a party? What about Sarah's personal details, which were not revealed at the party, but known to the author because of their shared social circle? Legal citations are appreciated.
posted by xo on Jan 7, 2006 - 25 answers

What is the best way to obtain an agent for a non-fiction book (a collection of unorthodox and engrossing interviews with innovators on the political Left, with many a-listers)? [more inside]
posted by By The Grace of God on Aug 17, 2005 - 7 answers

How hard is it to publish and produce your own book? Do you know of any small run press situations where you can vouch for the quality? Someone suggested CafePress, but it seems dubious and probably not much better than a copy center like Kinkos.
posted by agregoli on Dec 17, 2003 - 13 answers