The Hard Truth
For most people, traditional publishing does not pay enough. Plus, it’s risky. With every new book, the process begins again. This means that many authors who have traditional publishing deals either have a second job or have other means of paying the bills. What about royalties you ask? That is a good question. You might be surprised to find out that the average royalty for an author under a traditional publishing contract is usually 3.5-6% of the cover price. The author gives their agent a piece of that, too. This leaves around 30-60 cents per book and that is only after the publisher has made back their cash on your advance.
Unless you have connections in the industry, are insanely talented, or are really lucky, getting a traditional publishing contract is left as an option only for those that can afford it. When looking at the numbers, you can see why so many people decide to self-publish.
End of Part 1.
Secrets of a Children’s Book Publisher is a blog series with essays which expose some of the lesser known aspects about the children’s book industry. Kelley Donner is a bestselling children’s book author/illustrator has a Masters Degree in Illustration and Book Design from Cambridge, UK. She has worked in the field of education for over 20 years and has lived on three continents. When she is not at her desk, you’ll find her playing with her three boys and their new kitten Luna.
