Many people have great aspirations of becoming a writer. Whether one becomes a syndicated newspaper columnist, featured magazine writer or New York Times Best Selling author, the lure of writing can be overwhelmingly appealing. The idea of writing a best-selling novel is a dream-come-true for many aspiring writers.
In the past, publishing a book was a long and sometimes arduous process. But today, anyone with an idea or story can publish an electronic book or EBook. From self-help and how-to books to promoting a business or product, EBooks have become a popular alternative to traditional publishing.
Electronic Book Advantages:
Although EBooks offer some similarities to traditional books, there are some obvious differences. While traditional books can be heavy and bulky, EBooks are portable; they can be downloaded, printed, emailed or stored on discs. Electronic books are actually viewed on computers or various handheld devices. Digital books are often cheaper than traditional books, and many are actually free.
Disadvantages of Electronic Books:
The actual act of turning the page, highlighting important text or physically placing a hard copy book back into it's proper place in the library, is all traditional aspects of the reading process that many die-hard book lovers cherish. Whether it is the musty smell of an old book or the smell of a new one, electronic books simply do not provide those much-loved traditions.
Self-Publishing Advantages:
Due to the Internet, publishing a book has never been easier. Writers no longer have to find an agent and publisher. And better yet – there are no rejection slips when writing an electronic book. Self-publishing is now a viable option whether a seasoned journalist or aspiring writer. EBooks also provide instant gratification to readers, take up little space and are eco-friendly.
Compared to hard-copy publishing, electronic books are far less expensive to produce. And better yet, the author is in charge of the entire process, from start to finish. The EBook author is the writer, publisher, marketer and distributor. The author determines exactly when the book will be published, the quantity, cost of the book and other important variables. EBooks are available in various formats including PDF, EXE and HTML. Various software products are available to compile books electronically compared to a printing press.
How to Get Started Writing an EBook:
- How to Write an EBook – Crystal Paine, author of several EBooks and traditional books, shares some simple and straightforward tips and suggestions on how to get started writing an EBook.
- How to Write an EBook – Marga Satrya provides helpful insight on how to get started writing an electronic book.
Due to the Internet, writing and publishing a book has never been easier. Electronic books allow readers to see the world through other people’s eyes, travel back in time or warp into the future. EBooks - what a "novel" idea!
For more information on self-publishing, please read Publish Books with Online Tools - Self-Publishing Made Simple.
Jace Shoemaker-Galloway - +JaceShoemaker-Galloway is more than passionate about online safety awareness. She has devoted and dedicated over five years to Internet ...
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