When it comes to publishing low-content books that sell, understanding the various platforms and options available to you is crucial. There are several popular platforms such as Amazon KDP and IngramSparks to name the top two that cater to self-publishers looking to create and sell their own books. Each platform has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to research and compare them to find the best fit for your needs.

Additionally, there are different options when it comes to the type of low-content books you can create. From coloring books and journals to planners and activity books, the possibilities are endless. Choosing the right type of book for your target audience and niche can greatly impact the success of your book. It's important to consider your strengths and interests when deciding on the type of book to create.

Key Lesson Concepts:

• Research and compare popular publishing platforms such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark
• Explore the different types of low-content books you can create, including coloring books, journals, planners, workbooks and activity books
• Consider your strengths and interests when choosing the type of book to create for maximum success

Choose your self-publishing platform

A self-publishing platform is a tool used to turn all the elements of your book into a physical product and distribute it to buyers and retailers. The self-publishing company you use will affect your distribution channels, so at this point it’s important to start thinking about how you want to sell books online.

Self-publishing with print-on-demand

Print-on-demand is a fulfillment method wherein your books are printed and shipped at the point of sale. This means that you don’t need to print a bunch of copies of your book, hold them as stock, and ship them yourself. 

Print-on-demand books are perfect for self-publishers because it’s low-cost and saves time by letting you outsource the manufacturing and distribution of your products. 

Selling on Amazon using Kindle Direct Publishing

Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is Amazon’s self-publishing platform that allows users to print their books on demand at the point of sale. Readers are used to Amazon’s interface, making it easy for them to navigate and find your book. 

On top of this, Amazon will suggest your book to readers who its algorithm thinks might be interested. Although KDP will directly upload your book to Amazon, you don’t necessarily need to use it to sell printed books. 

How much does it cost to use KDP?

Since KDP uses print-on-demand fulfillment, charges for using KDP are only incurred once you’ve sold a book. Paperbacks sold on Amazon marketplaces using KDP are subject to a 60% royalty rate, meaning you earn 60% of the listed price. 

That being said, printing costs (which can vary based on your paper type and number of pages) are also deducted from your total. Thankfully, Amazon has a printing cost and royalty calculator that will give you an estimate of the total amount in royalties you can expect to receive.

One downside to note about KDP is the exclusivity clause: if you sell ebooks on Amazon using KDP, you won’t be able to sell the same ebooks elsewhere. Physical books sold through KDP can still be sold on other platforms, however. 

Other self-publishing platforms

Several self-publishing companies allow users to create physical copies of their books and sell them via major retailers. Most have a print-on-demand option for selling on Amazon, but this might not be available for selling in-store. 

If you decide to use a self-publishing platform other than Lulu, you’ll need to have copies of your book printed, stored, and shipped traditionally, meaning there might be more overhead costs than with a print-on-demand service. 

• Reedsy. On top of being a platform to find freelancers, Reedsy also offers self-publishing services. Its book-formatting tool helps self-published independent authors create professionally designed e-books and printed book files for free. 
• IngramSpark. IngramSpark offers tools for designing your print books and built-in distribution features to over 40,000 retailers and libraries.

Lesson Summary

When it comes to publishing low-content books, understanding the available platforms and options is crucial. Two popular platforms are Amazon KDP and IngramSparks, catering to self-publishers. Key points to consider:

• Research and compare popular publishing platforms
• Explore different types of low-content books such as coloring books, journals, planners
• Consider strengths and interests for the type of book to create

Self-publishing platforms are essential in turning book elements into physical products. Vital aspects:

• Sell books online and choose distribution channels
• Use print-on-demand for cost efficiency and time savings

Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing is a self-publishing platform for printing books on demand. Important details:

• Earn a 60% royalty on paperbacks sold on Amazon via KDP
• Printing costs are deducted from the total revenue
• Exclusivity clause may restrict selling ebooks elsewhere if using KDP

Other self-publishing platforms:

• Reedsy provides self-publishing services and book-formatting tools
• IngramSpark offers book design tools and distribution to numerous retailers and libraries