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How to release a non-fiction book in the UK

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Writing and releasing a non-fiction book is an exciting and rewarding journey. Whether you're aiming to share expertise, tell a real-life story, or provide valuable insight into a niche, the process involves several key steps. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of writing and releasing a non-fiction book in the UK, with a focus on using Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and Draft2Digital, as well as registering your book with the Legal Deposit.

Step 1: Writing Your Non-Fiction Book

Before thinking about publication, you need a well-structured manuscript. Here are some key tips for writing a compelling non-fiction book:

  • Define your purpose: What is the key message or value you want to deliver to your readers? Whether you’re educating, inspiring, or informing, keep your central theme clear.
  • Know your audience: Identify who will benefit most from your book. Knowing your target audience will help you tailor your content, tone, and style.
  • Create an outline: Map out the main chapters or sections of your book. This will ensure a logical flow of ideas and make the writing process smoother.
  • Research thoroughly: Non-fiction readers expect accuracy, so research your subject carefully. Keep your references and sources organized.
  • Write consistently: Set aside dedicated writing time each day or week. Consistency is key to completing your manuscript.

Once your manuscript is complete, ensure it’s polished by editing and proofreading. You may also consider hiring a professional editor to help with clarity, grammar, and overall quality.

Step 2: Preparing Your Book for Publication

With your manuscript ready, the next step is to format and prepare it for publication. This includes:

  • Formatting the manuscript: Ensure that your manuscript is formatted according to the guidelines of your chosen publishing platform, whether for an eBook or print. Each platform has specific formatting requirements, especially for margins, fonts, headings, and table of contents.
  • Designing a book cover: A professional cover design is essential for attracting readers. Whether you design it yourself or hire a professional, make sure the cover reflects the genre and tone of your book.
  • Writing a compelling blurb: This is the summary that will appear on your book’s sales page. It should be engaging and concise, giving potential readers a reason to buy your book.

Step 3: Publishing on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

One of the most popular platforms for self-publishing is Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). It allows you to publish both eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks, and your book will be available on Amazon’s vast marketplace.

Here’s how to release your non-fiction book on KDP:

  1. Create an account: If you don’t already have one, sign up for a KDP account at kdp.amazon.com.
  2. Upload your manuscript: Follow KDP’s step-by-step instructions to upload your manuscript. Make sure to choose the correct book format (eBook or paperback).
  3. Set your pricing and royalties: KDP allows you to set your book’s price and choose between 35% and 70% royalty options for eBooks, depending on the price and sales region.
  4. Distribute globally: One of the key advantages of KDP is its global reach. By default, your book will be available in Amazon stores worldwide.
  5. Launch your book: After you’ve reviewed your book details and previewed the file, publish it. Your book will be available on Amazon within 24-72 hours.

Step 4: Expanding Your Reach with Draft2Digital

In addition to KDP, you may want to reach readers who use other platforms besides Amazon. This is where Draft2Digital comes in. Draft2Digital is a user-friendly service that distributes your eBook to a wide range of retailers, including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and libraries via OverDrive.

To publish your non-fiction book using Draft2Digital:

  1. Sign up for an account: Visit Draft2Digital.com and create an account.
  2. Upload your manuscript: Draft2Digital provides automated formatting tools, making it easy to convert your manuscript into the correct format for each retailer.
  3. Choose your distribution channels: You can select which retailers you want your book to appear on. Draft2Digital allows for wide distribution across multiple platforms, including international markets.
  4. Set pricing: Draft2Digital lets you control the pricing of your book on each platform, with clear royalty structures.

By using both KDP and Draft2Digital, you can maximize the visibility and sales potential of your non-fiction book across multiple platforms and regions.

Step 5: Registering Your Book with the Legal Deposit

In the UK, it is a legal requirement to submit a copy of any book you publish to the British Library. This is known as the Legal Deposit, and it applies to both physical and digital books. Here's how to register your book:

  1. Understand your obligations: The Legal Deposit Libraries Act 2003 mandates that a copy of every book published in the UK must be sent to the British Library and, upon request, to five other deposit libraries (including Oxford and Cambridge).
  2. Submit your book: If you publish a physical book, send one copy to the British Library’s Legal Deposit Office. For digital books, publishers can submit electronic versions directly via email or other means specified by the British Library.
  3. Fulfill requests: If requested, you may need to send copies to other deposit libraries. However, digital submissions are typically requested only by the British Library.

By registering your book with the Legal Deposit, you ensure it becomes part of the UK’s national archive and is preserved for future generations.

Step 6: Marketing and Promoting Your Book

Once your book is live, marketing becomes crucial to its success. Here are some effective ways to promote your non-fiction book:

  • Build an author platform: Use social media, blogs, and newsletters to engage with potential readers. Share insights related to your book’s topic and create a community around your expertise.
  • Leverage reviews: Encourage early readers to leave reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other platforms. Reviews help build credibility and attract new readers.
  • Collaborate with influencers: Reach out to bloggers, podcasters, and social media influencers who cater to your book’s target audience.
  • Utilize paid advertising: Amazon Ads and Facebook Ads can be effective tools for driving traffic to your book’s sales page.

Conclusion

Writing and releasing a non-fiction book in the UK is an exciting process that involves careful planning, research, and execution. By leveraging platforms like KDP and Draft2Digital, as well as complying with the UK’s Legal Deposit requirements, you can successfully publish and distribute your work. Once published, focus on marketing to ensure your book reaches the right audience and achieves the impact you’ve envisioned.

With the right approach, your non-fiction book could not only educate and inspire readers but also establish you as an authority in your field.