Winner of the South East Authors Book of the year, 2011.
'A clear-sighted, cogent and thorough analysis of a part of the business often fraught with emotional and financial perils. The case studies Alison Baverstock provides are especially illuminating and her dispassionate approach will prove a valuable asset for those who intend to or are interested in self-publishing.' Peter Strauss, Literary Agent
'Once a "last resort", the dusty refuge of disappointed writers "with anger in their hearts, and spleen in their vocabulary", self-publishing now offers a practical alternative to the traditional routes into print - or onto the e-reader screen. So runs the kernel of Alison Baverstock's case in this richly detailed and enormously useful guide to the process.
She covers every base in the DIY market, from proofing and layout to the pros and cons of "author solutions" firms and - of course - the electronic edition.
Weary of "massification" on every level, we seek direct and authentic contact, and self-publication can supply exactly that. Barring a miracle, it won't make you rich, but it might make you happy. She reports among her DIY authors a "high level of contentment".' Boyd Tonkin, The Independent, 18th November 2011
'Alison Baverstock offers tremendous insight into the developing role of the author -supported by highly practical advice. The book approaches self-publishing from the point of view of why you might want to perpetuate work; conveying an understanding of both the complexity of the process and the degree of self-awareness required, if this is to be effectively achieved.' Dan Poynter, The Self-Publishing Manual.
'If you're still undecided about whether or not you should self-publish or if you can handle/be bothered with all that's involved, Alison Baverstock's new book The Naked Author is the best place to start. As well as offering practical advice (like the difference between editing, copyedited and proofreading--something all self-publishers should know), The Naked Author addresses the psychology of putting your own book out into the world. I think in the rush to publish, many self-publishers--and the guides written for them--forget to ask themselves if they're ready for what it's going to feel like, which isn't always rainbows and sunshine. You need a thick skin to write, and a titanium armor to self-publish. Filled with inspiring stories from successful self-publishers, including Mark Voss and Louise Edwards whose stellar sales secured them a six-figure deal in the UK, and with a foreword by Smashwords founder Mark Coker, The Naked Author would be a great addition to any self-publisher's library.' Catherine Ryan Howard, author of Self-Printed.