5 Alternatives to BookBaby for Self-Publishing E-Books

BookBaby

vs.

Amazon

95

BookBaby and Amazon are two websites that offer book publishing services. Both companies provide authors with the ability to upload their own manuscripts in digital and physical formats, marketing tools, and distribution networks for their books. BookBaby specializes in independent authors. It offers a suite of tools to help authors create a professional product including editing, cover design, formatting, ISBN assignment, audio production services, and more. Authors also have access to an online library of advice from industry professionals on writing and self-publishing topics. Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer with a wide range of services available for authors. In addition to digital book sales through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), authors can use CreateSpace to produce physical books that can be sold through Amazon stores worldwide. Through KDP Select, authors can take advantage of promotional opportunities such as free giveaways and Kindle Countdown Deals. Authors can also use Merch by Amazon to create t-shirts based on their work and make money from sales.

BookBaby

vs.

Blurb

72

BookBaby and Blurb are two popular self-publishing services that offer authors a platform to create and distribute their work. BookBaby offers authors the ability to create eBooks, audiobooks, music CDs and vinyl records, while Blurb specializes in creating high-quality photo books as well as print books. Both platforms feature easy-to-use author tools such as book cover designs and editing tools that allow authors to customize their projects. Additionally, both services have global distribution networks which can help authors reach a wider audience. While BookBaby is more focused on music and audio publishing, Blurb provides authors with a comprehensive range of book printing services which include specialty papers, hardcover options, dust jackets and more. Both platforms also provide helpful customer support services such as live chat and email support to assist authors with any questions they may have during the publishing process.

BookBaby

vs.

Amazon KDP

21

BookBaby and KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) are both online self-publishing platforms that allow authors to publish their work without relying on traditional publishing methods. Both offer a range of services to help authors produce, distribute, and market their books. BookBaby offers a comprehensive suite of tools to create a professional book product, with options to design custom covers, format the text and pages, and even arrange for printing. It also provides distribution services to over 39,000 retailers worldwide. Authors can market their books through BookBaby’s promotional opportunities, such as its featured books page and newsletter. KDP is Amazon’s self-publishing platform that enables authors to quickly upload their manuscripts in various digital formats and easily convert them into Kindle ebooks. Authors can take advantage of Amazon’s valuable reach by making their books available on its store as well as other retailers around the world. Additionally, KDP provides marketing tools such as author pages and promo codes to help authors promote their work more effectively.

BookBaby

vs.

Lulu

32

BookBaby and Lulu are both self-publishing platforms that offer authors the tools to publish and distribute their books. While both sites offer similar services, they also have some distinct differences. BookBaby offers a wide range of professional editing, cover design, marketing, and printing services to help authors get their work published quickly and easily. It also has an extensive library of royalty-free images that can be used to create custom book covers. Additionally, BookBaby provides detailed analytics so authors can track the success of their books in real time. Lulu provides similar services as BookBaby but its main focus is on print on demand technology. Authors can upload content directly from Microsoft Word or PDF documents into Lulu's online editor to make changes or add finishing touches before publishing. Additionally, they can take advantage of the platform’s built-in cover creator tool which allows users to design custom book covers with their own images or choose from hundreds of templates. With Lulu’s integrated marketing tools, authors can easily generate reviews, social media posts, and promotional material for their work. Ultimately, authors should carefully consider each platform's features before deciding which one best suits their needs.