Self-Publishing a Children’s Book

A Guide to KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Barnes & Noble Press

Self-publishing a children’s book has never been easier. With platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Barnes & Noble Press, authors can bring their stories to life and reach young readers worldwide. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each platform, its benefits, and how to choose the best one for your children’s book. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned storyteller, understanding these self-publishing options will help you make the right decision.

Why Self-Publish a Children’s Book?

Self-publishing a children’s book gives you complete control over your creative process, from the illustrations to the layout. It also allows you to keep a higher percentage of royalties compared to traditional publishing. Additionally, you can get your book to market faster and directly connect with your audience.

Using platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Barnes & Noble Press, you can self-publish in both print and digital formats, ensuring your book is accessible to readers in multiple ways.

1. Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

Amazon KDP is one of the most popular platforms for self-publishing children’s books. It offers both ebook and print-on-demand options, allowing you to publish paperback and Kindle versions of your book.

Key Benefits of Amazon KDP:

• Wide Reach: Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer, giving you access to a massive audience of parents, teachers, and young readers.
• Print-on-Demand: You don’t need to worry about printing costs or managing inventory—Amazon prints each book as it’s ordered.
• Royalty Options: KDP offers up to 70% royalty on ebook sales, depending on the price of your book.
• KDP Select: You can enroll your book in KDP Select, which makes it available to Kindle Unlimited subscribers and eligible for promotional programs like countdown deals.

How to Publish on Amazon KDP:

• Create an account on KDP.
• Format your manuscript and upload the file (Amazon provides guidelines for formatting).
• Upload your book cover and illustrations (make sure they are high-resolution for children’s books).
• Set the price and distribution options.
• Hit publish, and your book will be available on Amazon within 24-48 hours!

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2. IngramSpark

IngramSpark is a self-publishing platform that specializes in both print and ebook formats, offering authors access to one of the largest book distribution networks. If you’re looking to get your children’s book into physical bookstores, libraries, and online retailers beyond Amazon, IngramSpark is a great choice.

Key Benefits of IngramSpark:

• Global Distribution: IngramSpark distributes your book to over 40,000 retailers and libraries worldwide, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores.
• Print Quality: IngramSpark is known for its high-quality print options, which is crucial for children’s books with vibrant illustrations.
• Hardcover Options: IngramSpark offers hardcover printing, a popular format for children’s books.
• Wide Reach: You can reach bookstores, online retailers, and libraries worldwide.

How to Publish on IngramSpark:

• Create an account on IngramSpark.
• Format your manuscript and illustrations according to their specifications.
• Upload your book files (manuscript and cover).
• Set your pricing and distribution options.
• Approve a print proof, then your book will be available to retailers and distributors.

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3. Lulu

Lulu is a well-known self-publishing platform that offers a wide range of formats, including paperback, hardcover, and ebook. It’s especially popular for authors who want more creative control over the production of their children’s books.

Key Benefits of Lulu:

• Customization: Lulu allows for a high degree of customization in book formats, trim sizes, and binding options, which is ideal for unique children’s book designs.
• Print-on-Demand: Lulu offers print-on-demand services, so you don’t need to manage inventory.
• Global Distribution: Your book can be distributed to Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major online retailers.
• No Setup Fees: Lulu does not charge upfront fees for publishing your book.

How to Publish on Lulu:

• Create an account on Lulu.
• Choose your book format (paperback, hardcover, ebook).
• Upload your manuscript and illustrations.
• Customize your book’s size, paper quality, and binding.
• Set your pricing and distribution options.
• Publish your book, and Lulu will handle print and distribution as orders come in.

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4. Barnes & Noble Press

Barnes & Noble Press is the self-publishing arm of the popular bookstore chain. If you’re looking to get your children’s book in front of Barnes & Noble customers, this platform is a good option. You can publish both print and ebook formats through Barnes & Noble Press.

Key Benefits of Barnes & Noble Press:

• Barnes & Noble Distribution: Your book will be available directly through Barnes & Noble’s online store, with the possibility of being stocked in their physical stores.
• Print Quality: Like IngramSpark, Barnes & Noble Press offers high-quality print options, which is essential for illustrated children’s books.
• No Upfront Costs: Barnes & Noble Press doesn’t charge upfront fees to publish your book.
• Ebook and Print-on-Demand: You can offer both print and digital versions of your children’s book to readers.

How to Publish on Barnes & Noble Press:

• Sign up for a Barnes & Noble Press account.
• Upload your manuscript and illustrations.
• Select your print and ebook options.
• Set pricing and distribution.
• Your book will be available on Barnes & Noble’s website once it’s published.

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Choosing the Right Platform

When deciding which platform to use, consider your goals for the book. If you’re aiming for wide distribution, IngramSpark might be the best option due to its extensive network. If you want to sell primarily on Amazon, KDP is ideal. For more customization and creative control, Lulu is a great choice. If your focus is on the Barnes & Noble audience, then their self-publishing platform should be your go-to.

Final Thoughts

Self-publishing a children’s book has never been easier. Platforms like KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Barnes & Noble Press offer flexible options that cater to different needs. By choosing the right platform and taking advantage of their distribution channels, you can bring your story to life and share it with young readers around the world.

At [Your Website Name], we specialize in helping authors with custom children’s book illustrations, formatting, and cover design. Contact us today to learn how we can help you through the self-publishing process and make your book stand out!