- Eliza Randall
- 0 min read
Publishing with Bookemon: An In-Depth Review
Table of Contents
Bookemon is a versatile online self-publishing platform that empowers users to create, publish, and share their own books, making it accessible for a diverse audience of parents, teachers, and aspiring authors. Offering high-quality printing for both softcover and hardcover books, as well as eBooks, Bookemon provides an intuitive creation service that allows users to transform their documents—whether Word, PDF, or PowerPoint files—into professionally printed books.
With tools for designing each page and a range of templates, Bookemon accommodates creative flexibility for users wanting a hands-on experience. The platform also offers premium options, including photo books and color trade books, for those seeking additional quality in their projects. Through the Creative Author Press (CAP) package, authors can obtain an ISBN-13 number for their works, enabling global distribution on platforms like Amazon. Bookemon’s competitive pricing and customer support make it a convenient, user-friendly option for those interested in self-publishing with an emphasis on ease and quality.
Pros and Cons
 | |
| ✅ PROS | ⛔ CONS |
| Easy to use book creation tools Free Basic Account Print on Demand Services Option to sell books through Bookeman’s marketplace | Limited Distribution Options High Printing Costs No Professional Editing Services Offered Royalties lower than some platforms |
Pros and Cons Explained
Bookemon’s user-friendly interface and accessible book creation tools are ideal for both beginners and experienced authors. The platform’s free basic account allows users to explore its features before committing financially, making it an attractive choice for personal projects or smaller-scale publishing efforts. Print-on-demand services further eliminate the need for bulk inventory, reducing upfront costs for authors.
On the other hand, Bookemon’s distribution options are limited to its own marketplace, which may restrict potential book sales reach. Printing costs tend to be on the higher side compared to competitors, which could impact profitability for authors looking to sell widely. Additionally, Bookemon does not offer professional editing services, so authors will need to secure editing help independently if needed.
Overview of Bookemon’s Services
Bookemon’s pricing structure is refreshingly straightforward, designed to meet the varied needs of individual authors, educators, and institutions. Unlike many platforms that offer rigid tiered packages, Bookemon provides flexibility, allowing users to choose what works best for their unique goals. For authors who want to dip their toes into self-publishing without a significant financial commitment, Bookemon’s free basic account offers an excellent starting point, enabling users to explore the platform and create up to 10 books.
For those with aspirations to reach a wider audience, the Creative Author Press (CAP) package is a strong choice. At a reasonable one-time fee, the CAP package includes essential tools for commercial publishing, such as ISBN assignment and Amazon distribution, giving authors the ability to expand their reach beyond Bookemon’s marketplace. This option is particularly helpful for authors who want to test their work on a broader stage, as it offers a streamlined path to global distribution.
Whether you’re publishing for personal enjoyment or aiming to reach more readers, Bookemon’s flexible pricing and publishing options provide an accessible path, making it easy for anyone to start sharing their work with the world.
Book Creation Services
- Online Book Creation: The platform’s intuitive online interface simplifies the design and layout process, allowing users to create books from scratch or using templates with ease.
- Document Import: Bookemon supports seamless book creation by allowing users to import documents in popular formats like Word (.docx), PDF, and PowerPoint (.ppt), making it easy to start a book with existing content.
Publishing Options
- Print-on-Demand: Bookemon uses print-on-demand technology, so books are printed only when ordered. This reduces upfront costs and eliminates the need for inventory.
- Softcover and Hardcover Books: Users can choose between softcover and hardcover formats, with various sizes available to suit their project needs.
- Premium Photo Books: For photo collections, Bookemon offers customizable hardcover and softcover options, designed to highlight personal photos with professional-quality print.
- Color and Black & White Trade Books: Available in both hardcover and softcover, Bookemon provides options for color or black-and-white interiors, making it versatile for different book genres and styles.
Ebook Services
- Ebook Creation: Authors can convert their print books into digital formats, opening up more distribution opportunities through eBooks.
- ISBN Assignment: For those using the Creative Author Press (CAP) package, Bookemon provides an ISBN-13 number, enabling the book to be distributed globally, including on platforms like Amazon.
Design Tools
- Flexible Layouts: Bookemon’s “What You See Is What You Get” (WYSIWYG) interface allows users to create layouts with a high degree of customization, enhancing the book’s overall appeal.
- Hybrid Pages: Authors can integrate both text and images on the same page for a richer, more engaging content presentation.
- Cover Design Tools: Bookemon offers built-in templates for professional-looking covers, or users can opt for custom designs to suit their vision.
Collaborative Features
- Group Projects: Bookemon enables multiple users to work on the same book, which is ideal for collaborative projects in schools or family memory books.
Marketing Support
- Video Sharing: Bookemon promotes visibility by sharing videos of published books on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, helping authors gain additional exposure and engage with their audience.
Sales Options
- Bookemon Store: Authors have the option to sell their books through Bookemon’s online store, allowing them to reach a broader audience and earn from their work.
With a broad range of services that cover everything from creation to sales, Bookemon offers a flexible and user-friendly platform that meets the needs of diverse users, including parents, teachers, and first-time authors looking for a streamlined way to publish their work professionally.
Pricing and Packages
Bookemon offers a flexible pricing structure that caters to different publishing needs, they even have a nifty Book Price Calculator that you can use to get personalized quote and choose the services you need, ala carte!
For authors that desire a full publishing package, Bookeman recommends their Creative Author Press (CAP) Package:
Cost: $99 per published book
Ideal For: Authors looking to publish with an ISBN and list their books on Amazon for global reach.
Includes:
- Unique ISBN-13 number and barcode
- Submission of book information to ISBN databases for worldwide recognition
- One complimentary hard copy (subject to restrictions)
- Registration of the book title in ISBN repositories
- Amazon bookstore availability
- One free eBook license (typically $7.99)
- Marketing support with video sharing on YouTube and TikTok for additional visibility
Publishing Timeline
Bookemon’s publishing process is structured to offer authors a straightforward path from manuscript to published book, with tools designed to simplify each step. For authors who choose the Creative Author Press (CAP) package, Bookemon provides a defined publishing journey that includes ISBN assignment, cataloging in the ISBN database, and availability on Amazon’s bookstore. This approach allows authors to focus on content creation while Bookemon handles the essential publishing logistics, making it a viable option for those looking for a manageable and guided self-publishing experience.
To give you a deeper look, below we’ve outlined Bookemon’s Publishing process below:
1. Initial Submission: Authors start by either creating their book directly on Bookemon’s platform using its intuitive online tools or by uploading a pre-formatted PDF. Once authors choose the “Publish with ISBN” option, they initiate the CAP package, designed specifically for those seeking wider distribution.
2. ISBN Assignment: After purchasing the CAP package, Bookemon assigns a unique ISBN-13 number and barcode to the book. This ISBN is essential for commercial distribution, allowing books to be easily cataloged and recognized worldwide, enhancing the book’s legitimacy in the market.
3. Submission to ISBN Database: Bookemon submits the book’s details—title, description, and author information—to the ISBN database, ensuring it’s available in international catalogs for bookstores, libraries, and online retailers. This step allows the book to be searchable across major global channels.
4. Complimentary Hard Copy: Upon publication, Bookemon offers authors a complimentary hard copy of their book, with page count limits based on the type of book:
– Color Trade Books: Authors can receive a free copy for books up to 400 pages.
– Premium Photo Books: Complimentary copies are available for books up to 200 pages.
– If the book exceeds these page limits, an additional $99 fee is required for ISBN publishing, ensuring the option remains available regardless of the book’s size.
5. Amazon Availability: Once all submission steps are completed, Bookemon makes the book available for purchase on Amazon. This listing on a major online bookstore significantly broadens the potential audience for the book and provides a convenient point of sale.
Estimated Timelines
While Bookemon does not specify exact processing times for each step, authors generally find their books are available for purchase within a short period after submission and approval of materials. For those seeking specific timelines or guarantees, it may be beneficial to contact Bookemon’s customer support directly for more tailored information. This clear, step-by-step process ensures that authors understand each stage, from initial upload to global availability.
Print-on-Demand and Distribution
Bookemon uses a Print-on-Demand model, allowing authors to publish books without large upfront costs or inventory requirements. In this model, books are printed only when ordered, minimizing the financial risk and eliminating the need to store unsold copies. Authors can choose from various formats, including color hardcover and softcover books, as well as premium photo books. Upon publication, Bookemon offers each author a complimentary hard copy, with some limitations based on page count—up to 400 pages for color trade books and 200 pages for premium photo books. For books that exceed these limits, an additional fee is required to cover ISBN publishing costs.
For authors seeking wider reach may select Bookemon’s Creative Author Press (CAP) package, making the book eligible for sale through online retailers and bookstores. As part of the CAP package, Bookemon submits book details—including title, author information, and description—to the ISBN database, making it discoverable on a global scale. One of the standout features of this package is distribution through Amazon’s bookstore, enabling authors to reach an extensive, international audience.
With no minimum order requirement, authors can print as few or as many copies as desired, making Bookemon’s POD model ideal for both small, personal projects and larger commercial publishing ventures. By combining flexible POD options with global distribution capabilities, Bookemon empowers self-published authors to control their publishing journey and reach a broader market affordably and efficiently.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Customer feedback on Bookemon has been mixed, with a general rating of around 4.6 out of 5 on platforms like Trustpilot. Positive reviews often cite the following:
- User-friendly interface: Bookemon’s platform is praised for its ease of use, especially for beginners or those with minimal design experience.
- Quick publishing process: Users appreciate the short turnaround time from book creation to publication.
- Good print quality: Many users are pleased with the quality of printed books, especially for personal or gift projects.
However, some customers express concerns regarding: - High printing costs: Printing costs can be a limiting factor for authors planning to sell widely.
- Limited distribution options: Bookemon’s distribution options are generally limited to its own marketplace.
- Customer service issues: A few users have reported challenges in getting prompt responses or resolving issues with Bookemon’s support team.
Is Bookemon for You?
Bookemon is a user-friendly, practical option for authors wanting to share personal stories or create smaller, meaningful projects, like family memory books or photo albums. The platform’s intuitive design tools and print-on-demand options make it especially appealing for first-time authors or those with a focus on creating books for a close circle of friends, family, or a niche community. For authors just beginning their publishing journey, Bookemon can offer an encouraging, straightforward introduction to the self-publishing world.
For those with aspirations to reach a larger audience, generate higher royalties, or access a full suite of publishing services—such as professional editing and wider distribution—Bookemon may not meet every need. Its primary distribution is through its own marketplace, which could limit reach, and the royalty structure might be less favorable for authors aiming to maximize earnings. Authors looking for broader exposure, like retail partnerships or global reach, may want to consider other platforms that offer a more comprehensive range of services.
That said, Bookemon’s simplicity can still provide value to any author. For those aiming to publish on a larger scale, a good approach might be to start with Bookemon for initial feedback and experience, then explore other platforms as your goals and audience grow. For aspiring authors, remember that each platform has its strengths—finding the right fit for your specific goals can make all the difference in your publishing journey.
Best Alternative to Bookemon
For authors seeking a self-publishing alternative that delivers exceptional value, Spines stands out. You can schedule a free 15 minute call to find out more.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to publish a book on Bookemon?
Books can typically be available for purchase within 24 to 48 hours after finalization, however do not offer any guarantees.
2. Can I sell my Bookemon-published books on other platforms?
Bookemon’s distribution is primarily limited to its marketplace. To sell elsewhere, authors may need to explore additional channels.
3. Does Bookemon offer editing services?
No, Bookemon does not provide editing services. Authors will need to manage editing independently.
4. Is there a cost to publish on Bookemon?
There’s no upfront publishing cost, but printing costs apply per order, especially if multiple copies are needed.