If you’re thinking about self-publishing your first children’s book, here are a few high-level steps I followed—and still recommend to new authors:
✅ 1. Follow the KDP Instructions
- KDP walks you through every step—from uploading your manuscript to setting pricing.
- If you’re unsure about something, their help pages and community forums are extremely useful.
- The barrier to entry is low, and you can literally publish your first book without any upfront cost.
🏆 2. Submit and Track Your Book
- Once published, check your sales dashboard regularly.
- Amazon occasionally offers promotional opportunities like KDP’s Bestseller of the Month, which I won early on on my Solar System for Kids book—it’s worth keeping an eye out!
🆓 3. Publishing is Free—But ISBNs Aren’t (And That’s Okay)
- While KDP offers free ISBNs, I chose to purchase my own through Bowker to retain full control.
- Bowker is the official source for ISBNs in the U.S., and here’s how I approached it:
- One ISBN cost about $125 at the time.
- I opted for the bulk option—100 ISBNs for $575—since I knew I’d be writing multiple books.
- Owning your ISBNs allows for more publishing flexibility, especially if you plan to distribute outside Amazon.
✍️ Why I Love Indie Publishing
Being an indie author means I’m in full control of my books—creative direction, design, publishing schedule, marketing strategy—everything. And while that means more responsibility, it also means more freedom.
Starting with just the KDP instructions and a dream, I’ve been able to build a book business that reflects my vision and my voice.
Amazon flew me out in 2020 (before the global shutdown) and interviewed me (amongst other best-selling authors). Here is there preview/trailer on why you should KDP.
Check it out:
