Self-publishing has transformed the literary landscape, allowing authors to publish their work independently of traditional publishing houses. This review examines BookBaby, and offers a detailed evaluation of BookBaby’s services, processes, and overall effectiveness, highlighting both the benefits and potential drawbacks of using BookBaby as a publishing partner.
Founded in 2011, BookBaby is an established player in the self-publishing industry. The current president of BookBaby is Steven Spatz. Offering a suite of publishing services, it is a one-stop for almost every publishing service, providing independent authors with the tools and support necessary to publish and distribute their books.
BookBaby – Pros and Cons
| ✅ PROS | ⛔ CONS |
| Comprehensive Services 100% Royalties 60+ Distribution Channels In-House Printing 4.5 Stars on Trustpilot | Expensive Additional Costs Limited Print Copies No Marketing in Basic Packages Editing Not Included in Publishing Packages Copyrights Not Included |
✅ Pros of BookBaby
Comprehensive Services: BookBaby offers comprehensive services, ensuring that authors have access to a wide range of publishing services and support.
100% Royalties: Authors keep 100% of their royalties.
60+ Distribution Channels: Authors can distribute their books through a variety of channels.
In-House Printing: BookBaby offers comprehensive in-house printing services.
4.5 Stars on Trustpilot: BookBaby has a good rating on Trustpilot.
However, despite the high rating, BookBaby comes with some drawbacks.
⛔ Cons of BookBaby
Expensive Additional Costs: can be expensive, many packages do not include all of the services and the number of print copies is limited.
Limited Print Copies: Only offers 25 printed books (soft-cover) with their packages. After that, authors can order more, but the cost increases.
No Marketing in Basic and Complete Packages: Marketing is only in the Deluxe package.
Editing Not Included in Any Packages: Proofreading and editing, services that almost every book needs, come at an additional cost.
Copyright protection Not Included: Copyright protection is not included which could be a concern for some authors.
Quick Overview of BookBaby’s Services
- Manuscript Preparation: Authors can upload their manuscripts and cover designs directly to BookBaby’s website. The company ensures that all materials meet industry standards before proceeding with publication.
- Editing Services: BookBaby provides three types of editing services—proofreading, copy editing, and line editing.
- Design Services: Professional book cover design and interior formatting are available to ensure that both the physical and digital versions of the book are visually appealing and meet industry standards.
- Ebook and Print Book Production: BookBaby specializes in converting manuscripts into eBooks and print-ready formats.
- Distribution: BookBaby distributes books to over 60 channels, such as retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BAM and Walmart. Authors can also choose to distribute through BookBaby’s own bookstore.
- Marketing Services: They offer marketing services such as the Ads for Authors Program, which creates and manages advertisements on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Google Display Ad Network.
- POD Services: BookBaby offers in-house printing services with flexible options.
Pricing and Packages
BookBaby offers a variety of self-publishing packages designed to meet the needs and budgets of different authors.
Express Package – $1090
Included:
- 25 softcover books
- eBook conversion and distribution
- Print-on-demand distribution
- Two ISBN barcodes
NOT Included:
- Book cover design
- Printed and eBook interior formatting
- Marketing services
- Metadata optimization
- Copyrights – must be done by the author
- Editing and proofreading services
At $1090, the Express package is the most affordable option, providing the basic services needed to publish both eBooks and print books. It is a good choice for authors who are ready to go to market and need a cost-effective way to distribute their work widely. However, it can end up being a costly venture if authors decide they need any additional services.
Complete Package – $2190
Included:
- 25 softcover books
- eBook conversion and distribution
- Print-on-demand distribution
- Two ISBN barcodes
- Professional book cover design
- Printed book and eBook interior formatting
NOT Included:
- Marketing services
- Metadata optimization
- Copyrights – must be done by the author
- Editing and proofreading services
This package ensures that both the cover and interior of the book are professionally formatted. These services are crucial for ensuring that the book meets industry standards and appeals to readers.
Deluxe Package – $2890
Inclusions:
- 25 softcover books
- eBook conversion and distribution
- Print-on-demand distribution
- Two ISBN barcodes
- Professional book cover design
- Printed book and eBook interior formatting
- Marketing services (ads on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn)
- Metadata optimization
NOT Included:
- Copyrights – must be done by the author
- Editing and proofreading services
The included marketing services in the Deluxe package might help authors reach a broader audience and increase sales. Metadata optimization ensures that the book is discoverable across various platforms. However, it’s important to note that these marketing efforts come with significant additional costs, such as the marketing budget, which can quickly escalate to thousands of dollars. While these services may increase awareness of your book, they do not guarantee an increase in book sales.
Review of Packages
These packages are often deemed expensive for the average author looking to self-publish, especially since editing and proofreading, which are needed for almost every book, are not included in any of these packages but instead are offered for an additional fee. For an average book of about 300 pages, the proofreading and editing services can cost an additional $900 to $3,000. However, BookBaby is noted for the convenience of providing all publishing services in one place.
Another point authors should consider is that BookBaby’s packages do not offer a substantial amount of printed books (25 soft-cover books). These packages would be suitable for authors who only want to print a few copies of their book.
It is important to also mention that each author is assigned a publishing specialist who provides assistance and guidance, and for more complex projects, production managers are available. While this service sounds great, some customer reviews suggest that not all authors are satisfied with the level of support received, pointing out occasional lapses in communication and delays in project timelines.
Additionally, BookBaby also offers a Premium Package, which includes everything from editing to marketing, however, they do not specify the price on their website and ask that you contact them to get a quote.
When it comes to marketing, it’s important to keep in mind that while these services can significantly increase the visibility and exposure of your book, they also come with substantial additional costs. Furthermore, despite the potential for greater awareness, these marketing efforts do not guarantee an increase in book sales.
Publishing Timeline
Publishing with BookBaby takes around 8 weeks on average, but varies depending on the type of book and services selected, and based on customer reviews which often brings a more realistic view, it should be noted that it can often be a much longer process than this. BookBaby asks that authors refer to the flow chart below as a guide for the publishing process.
Editing and Proofreading Services
BookBaby offers a range of editing services including proofreading, copy editing, and line editing, each catering to different aspects of the writing process. Editing is not included in any of their Self-Publishing Packages and can end up being a costly, yet often essential, additional process.
Types of editing services included are:
1. Proofreading – $3 per page
This is the most basic level of editing, focusing on correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Proofreading is ideal for authors confident in their manuscript’s overall structure and content but need a final check to eliminate minor mistakes.
For any average book of 300 pages, it can cost around $900.
2. Copy Editing – $7 per page
Copy editing addresses grammatical errors and issues related to syntax, style, and consistency. This service ensures that the manuscript reads smoothly and professionally, maintaining a consistent tone and style throughout.
For any average book of 300 pages, it can cost around $2,100.
3. Line Editing – $10 per page
Line editing is the most comprehensive form of editing offered by BookBaby. It involves a detailed review of the manuscript’s content, structure, and flow. Line editors work on improving clarity, coherence, and overall readability, ensuring that the narrative is engaging and logically organized.
For any average book of 300 pages, it can cost around $3,000.
BookBaby’s In-House Printing Capabilities
BookBaby prides itself on its in-house printing capabilities, which allow for high-quality production and efficient turnaround times.
- Print on Demand (POD): BookBaby operates on a print-on-demand model, which means books are printed as orders come in. This reduces the need for large print runs and minimizes upfront costs for authors.
- Flexible Printing Options: Authors can choose from various printing options, including different trim sizes, paper types, and cover finishes. This flexibility allows authors to create a product that aligns with their vision and meets market expectations.
- Quick Turnaround: With in-house printing, BookBaby can offer relatively quick turnaround times, for example, BookBaby can produce 3000-5000 printed soft-cover books in 9 days. This is particularly beneficial for authors who are looking to get their books to market swiftly.
If your book is ready to be produced, BookBaby offers a quick production timeline, however, it can become costly for authors looking to print large quantities of their books. Authors can request a quote by contacting BookBaby through their website.
Distribution
BookBaby partners with over 60 distribution channels, ensuring that books are available on multiple websites.
Quick overview:
- Key channels include: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million (BAM), and Walmart.
- Niche Platforms: BookBaby also distributes to niche platforms that cater to specific audiences.
- Ebook and Print Distribution: Ebooks are distributed to platforms like Apple Books and Google Play Books, while print books are listed on major online and physical bookstore website.
Partnering with over 60 distribution channels is significant. However, it is important to note that distribution is different from marketing services. This means that having your book available on many different channels does not necessarily mean an increase in exposure or sells.
Royalties
BookBaby allows authors to retain 100% of the net earnings from their book sales and authors can withdraw their royalties whenever they choose.
Quick Overview:
- 100% Royalties means that authors keep all the revenue generated from their book sales, minus any applicable distribution fees.
- Flexible Payouts allow authors to withdraw their royalties whenever they would like, without a minimum threshold. Additionally, they can set up scheduled payouts once they reach a specific amount.
- Distribution Fees – If your book sells on their website, they take a small distribution fee.
Customer Experience and Reviews
With a rating of 4.5 on Trustpilot, BookBaby has garnered a largely positive reputation among self-published authors for its comprehensive services and user-friendly website. Authors frequently highlight the ease of navigating the publishing process, from manuscript submission to final distribution.
For authors who are looking for a full self-publishing package, BookBaby can turn into an expensive endeavor, particularly for additional services like editing and marketing as well as their POD services. Authors often feel like BookBaby is not fully transparent with their prices.
Despite this, many authors feel the investment is justified by the broad distribution network and the ability to retain 100% of their royalties.
Is BookBaby For You?
BookBaby presents a comprehensive self-publishing solution with services that cater to nearly every aspect of the publishing process. If you value having access to an extensive distribution network, retaining 100% of your royalties, and the convenience of one-stop shopping for publishing services, BookBaby could be an excellent fit.
However, it’s important to consider the costs carefully. The initial package prices may seem reasonable, but essential services like editing, proofreading, and marketing can quickly increase your total investment, sometimes significantly.
Furthermore, while BookBaby provides robust support through dedicated publishing specialists, some authors have reported dissatisfaction with the level of service, citing issues such as communication lapses and delayed timelines.
Ultimately, BookBaby is best suited for authors who are prepared for potentially high costs and who can navigate the complexities of self-publishing with some level of independence.
Best Alternative to BookBaby
While BookBaby offers a range of services for self-publishing authors, those seeking an alternative that delivers exceptional value and innovative features might consider Spines. What sets Spines apart is its seamless integration of advanced AI technology with human expertise, significantly streamlining the publishing process. Authors at Spines enjoy an intuitive platform that supports all book formats—eBooks, audiobooks, and print-on-demand.
Spines ensures that your book reaches global audiences through extensive distribution channels and offers unique marketing solutions not found elsewhere. Furthermore, unlike many other platforms, Spines provides dedicated support throughout the publishing process and includes copyright protection certificates at no extra cost.
For authors concerned about publishing costs, Spines offers three straightforward packages with a very affordable monthly payment plan, while still providing a 100% royalty share. This setup ensures that you retain all the profit from your hard work.
Whether you’re a new author looking to make your mark or an established writer seeking more control and higher returns, Spines represents a compelling, cutting-edge alternative in the self-publishing landscape.
Sign up for free to explore what Spines can offer you.
FAQ’s About Publishing with BookBaby
Q: What are the primary services included in BookBaby’s packages? BookBaby offers
comprehensive publishing services including manuscript preparation, eBook and print book production, professional cover design, and interior formatting. These services help ensure that both the physical and digital versions of your book meet industry standards.
Q: Does BookBaby allow authors to keep their royalties? Yes, BookBaby allows authors to retain 100% of the net earnings from their book sales, offering a significant advantage for authors who want to maximize their profit.
Q: What are the limitations of the printed copies offered by BookBaby? The basic packages from BookBaby include only 25 printed books (soft-cover). If authors require more copies, they can order additional books, but the cost increases with each order.
Q: Are marketing services included in all BookBaby packages? No, marketing services are only included in the Deluxe package. Authors who opt for the Basic or Complete packages will not receive any marketing support, which is crucial for increasing book visibility and sales.
Q: How does BookBaby handle editing and proofreading services? Editing and proofreading are not included in any of the standard BookBaby packages. These essential services are available but come at an additional cost, which can be significant depending on the level of editing required.
Q: Can authors print a large number of books through BookBaby? While BookBaby offers print-on-demand services that can accommodate various orders, printing large quantities can become quite expensive. Authors looking to produce many copies might find the costs higher than anticipated.