Congratulations! You’ve finished your first manuscript. This is the moment where many aspiring authors feel overwhelmed, transitioning from the creative process to the business of publishing. The next crucial step is choosing the right publishing house.
Making an informed choice can define your career. Before you sign any contract, use this essential checklist of questions to ensure your chosen publishing house is the right partner for your literary dream.
The 7 Essential Questions for Your Prospective Publishing House
1. What is the Publishing House‘s Exact Production Timeline?
- Why it matters: Publishers often have long queues. Ask for a realistic, detailed schedule: how many weeks for editing, design, proofreading, printing, and finally, release. A professional publishing house should be able to provide a clear, step-by-step timeline.
- What to look for: A timeline that respects the process (e.g., at least 4-6 months for a quality book).
2. Who Retains the Copyright and the Rights to the Book?
- Why it matters: Copyright is the most important legal protection for your work. A traditional publishing house will usually license the rights from you, while a quality hybrid or self-publishing service will ensure the copyright remains 100% in your name.
- What to look for: Clarity on who owns the rights (print, e-book, film, translation, etc.) and if there is a rights reversal clause if the book goes out of print.
3. What is the Publishing House’s Distribution Network?
- Why it matters: Distribution is the difference between your book sitting in a box and reaching readers across the country (and globe). Ask specifically about their reach into major online retailers (Amazon, Flipkart) and physical bookstores (major chains, independent sellers, and regional reach, especially in areas like North Bengal).
- What to look for: Partnerships with major national distributors in India, clear e-book distribution channels, and worldwide reach.
4. What are the Marketing and Publicity Commitments?
- Why it matters: A great book with no marketing is just a beautifully edited manuscript. Ask what specific activities the publishing house will handle:
- Social media campaigns and graphics?
- Press releases?
- Book fair representation (like the Kolkata Book Fair)?
- Review copy distribution?
- What to look for: A clear, written plan outlining the publisher’s responsibilities versus the author’s.
5. How Will the Cover Design and Editing Process Be Handled?
- Why it matters: These two elements determine the book’s professionalism. Ask for examples of recently published covers in your genre and clarify your input level. Who is the editor, and what is their experience?
- What to look for: Evidence of professional, genre-appropriate design and a detailed editing process (copyediting, proofreading, and line editing).
6. What is the Royalty Rate and Payment Schedule?
- Why it matters: This is how you get paid. Royalty structures vary widely between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing models.
- What to look for: A clear percentage of the net/retail price, detailed reporting frequency (quarterly or half-yearly), and clarity on when the first payment will be issued.
7. Can I Contact 2-3 Recently Published Authors from your Publishing House for a Reference?
- Why it matters: This is your due diligence. If a publishing house is confident in its service, they will happily connect you with past clients.
- What to look for: Direct contact information for authors who have recently completed the process.
FAQ for Prospective Authors
More FAQs
Financial & Contract Questions
| Question | Answer |
| Q: What are average royalty rates offered by a Publishing House? | Royalty rates vary significantly. Traditional houses might offer 5-10% of the book’s retail price. Hybrid and self-publishing houses typically offer 50-100% of the net profit or a significantly higher percentage of the retail price, as the author has invested in the production. Publishing House like Pandulipi Publishing offers 10% on MRP of sold copies. |
| Q: What happens if my book is a major success? | If your book becomes a bestseller, the financial outcome is vastly different. In the traditional model, your publisher profits heavily. In the hybrid model, you retain a majority share of the profit, as you hold the rights and higher royalty percentage. |
| Q: What costs does a Publishing House typically cover? | In the traditional model, the publishing house covers all costs (editing, design, marketing, printing). In the hybrid model, the author invests in the initial production costs, and the publishing house provides the services and distribution network. |
Post-Publication Questions
| Question | Answer |
| Q: Will my book be available in both print and e-book formats? | Yes. A modern publishing house ensures your book is available in all standard formats: paperback, hardcover (optional), and major e-book formats (Kindle presently available for english titles) for maximum market reach. |
| Q: If I publish with you, will my book be at the Kolkata Book Fair? | Pandulipi Publishing prioritizes presence at major literary events. We ensure all new and current titles published through our publishing house are prominently displayed and promoted at events like the Kolkata Book Fair. |
| Q: How will I track my book sales and royalties? | A professional publishing house provides authors with a transparent and easily accessible online dashboard or detailed access to statements to track sales across all distribution channels (Amazon, Flipkart, etc.). |