What Every Writer Needs to Own From Manuscript to Market
Publishing a book is exciting. It’s also a reality check.
Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a publishing company like Kravitz and Sons, one truth stays the same: authors don’t get to “just write the book” and disappear. Publication is a shared effort, and your role matters more than you might think.
This isn’t about pressure. It’s about ownership. The more you understand your responsibilities, the smoother the process becomes and the stronger your book performs once it’s out in the world.
LET’S BREAK IT DOWN CLEARLY AND HONESTLY
1. Publishing a book is exciting. It’s also a reality check.
Before anything else, the book itself has to be solid. That means:
- Submitting a complete, polished manuscript
- Following submission or formatting guidelines
- Being open to revisions and rewrites
- Accepting that “finished” usually means “ready for feedback”
At Kravitz and Sons, we guide authors through the editorial process, but the quality of the writing still starts with you. Turning in rushed or half-edited work slows everything down and weakens the final result.
TIP: Revisions are not setbacks. They’re upgrades.
2. Communication Is Part of the Job
Silence kills momentum.
During publication, authors are expected to:
- Respond to emails in a timely manner
- Answer editorial questions clearly
- Review changes and provide feedback
- Respect production deadlines
Publishing runs on coordination. When authors stay responsive, projects move forward smoothly. When communication drops, everything stalls.
Professionalism shows in how you communicate, not just how you write.
3. Know What You’re Signing
Contracts aren’t background noise. They matter.
Authors are responsible for:
- Reading their publishing agreement carefully
- Understanding rights, royalties, and responsibilities
- Asking questions before signing
- Knowing what the publisher handles versus what the author manages
Whether you’re working with Kravitz and Sons or publishing independently, clarity upfront prevents confusion later.
If something doesn’t make sense, pause and ask. That’s not a weakness. That’s smart publishing.
4. Marketing Is a Shared Effort
Here’s the truth most authors need to hear early: no one will care about your book more than you do.
Even with a publishing company, authors are expected to:
- Promote their book consistently
- Share announcements and updates
- Participate in interviews or features
- Engage with readers authentically
Publishers provide structure and reach. Authors bring voice and connection. When both sides work together, books travel further.
5. Your Author Presence Matters
You don’t need to be everywhere. You do need to be visible.
Authors should take responsibility for:
- Maintaining an author profile or website
- Showing up on at least one social platform
- Representing their work professionally
Readers follow people, not just titles. Your presence helps build trust and long-term interest in your writing.
6. Proofs Are Not a Formality
When proofs arrive, your job isn’t over.
Authors must:
- Review layouts, formatting, and text carefully
- Catch errors before final approval
- Submit feedback on time
This is the last line of defense before your book goes public. Take it seriously.
7. Understand the Basics of ISBNs and Copyright
Especially important for self-published and hybrid authors.
You should understand:
- Who owns the ISBN
- Where your copyright is registered
- How your intellectual property is protected
At Kravitz and Sons, we help guide authors through these steps, but ownership begins with understanding.
8. Be Present During the Launch
Book launches aren’t just celebrations. They’re strategy.
Authors are often responsible for:
- Promoting launch dates
- Sharing purchase links
- Participating in virtual or in-person events
- Engaging early readers and supporters
A strong launch sets the tone for your book’s future.
9. Handle Reviews Like a Professional
Not every review will be glowing. That’s normal.
An author’s responsibility is to:
- Accept feedback with grace
- Avoid public arguments
- Learn what’s useful and move forward
Professionalism shows most when opinions differ.
10. Publication Is Not the Finish Line
Releasing a book is the beginning, not the end.
After publication, authors should:
- Continue promoting their work
- Support long-term sales efforts
- Stay connected with readers
- Prepare for future projects
At Kravitz and Sons, we believe successful books are built through ongoing collaboration between publisher and author.
Final Thought
Publishing works best when authors stay involved, informed, and proactive.
Whether you’re self-publishing or partnering with Kravitz and Sons, understanding your responsibilities empowers you to make better decisions and produce stronger work.
Own the process. Respect the craft. And remember, great books don’t happen by accident. They happen when authors show up.