For Those Who Can Give Advice on Book Publishing, Please

I don't PERSONALLY have any experience with the Amazon publishing, but I know of someone who does. She's done one book with them and loved it so much she's doing her next one with them too. (She's a fiction writer. Can't wait for her next book!) Anyway, this is the link to her facebook "author" page. You could see if she'd be willing to tell you about her experience. I don't personally know her, but (I just checked when I saw your location) and she is currently based out of Chicago as well! Anyway, here's the link, I bet she'd be more than happy to give you some info!

https://www.facebook.com/greferauthor/info

I am not a fan of self-publishing for those who want to actually make a career of being a writer, but it doesn't sound like that's what you're going for...sounds more like you are very driven to get this one piece out there and available to the masses. I second checking out the websites below.

However, if you DO want to continue on as a writer, check into submitting your work to established publishers and gaining that credibility.

You can self-publish through Lulu.com. They have an option where you can sell your book on amazon.com as well as on their website. You can also do an e-book for distribution for some of the popular e-readers.

Getting your book in bookstore chains means you have to go with a publishing company. That puts your work in their hands. They may or may not choose to publish you and it could be a year or two before it sees print. If you choose to do this, buy a copy of Writer's Market first so you know where to send it.

Self-publishing means you have to do all the marketing. But you also have more control. You don't have to buy huge amounts of copies to sell on your own. Lulu.com will print on demand.

Good luck!

There's a book called "Shortest Distance Between You and a Published Book by Susan Page that was recommended to me by a woman who has successfully published a book.