Welcome to Bigfine's Corner Blog
If I Can Become an Author, So Can You
Hello my Bigfine Dreamers!
My name is Mizz Phine, and I am honored that you have stopped by. Whether you are a reader, parent, educator, aspiring author, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, I am excited to have you here as part of The Dream Builders community.
I am a Mississippi native, former educator, retired healthcare professional, and now a published author. Writing has always been a part of my life, but it became especially important during some of the most challenging seasons of my journey.
After experiencing major health challenges that changed my life dramatically, I found myself spending long periods of time in hospitals and recovery. During those difficult moments, I returned to something that had always brought me comfort: writing.
The pages I wrote while lying in hospital beds eventually became the foundation for the books I am publishing today. Through those experiences, I learned an important lesson. Every person has a story worth telling.
Some stories are written in journals.
Some are tucked away in notebooks.
Some are scribbled on loose sheets of paper and forgotten in drawers.
And some are still waiting to be written.
This blog was created to encourage readers, writers, dreamers, and lifelong learners. Here, I will share publishing tips, literacy resources, author updates, book recommendations, and lessons I have learned along my own publishing journey.
For my very first post, I want to discuss a topic that many people ask me about:
How do I self publish a book?
The process can seem overwhelming at first, but it is more achievable than many people realize.
Step 1: Finish the Manuscript
Before worrying about covers, ISBNs, publishing platforms, or marketing, focus on finishing your manuscript.
Many aspiring authors spend years revising the first chapter while never completing the book itself.
Your first draft does not need to be perfect.
It simply needs to be finished.
Give yourself permission to write freely. You can always revise and improve your work later.
Remember, you cannot edit a blank page.
Step 2: Edit Your Work
Once your manuscript is complete, it is time to begin editing.
Review your work carefully for:
• Grammar errors
• Spelling mistakes
• Repeated words and phrases
• Inconsistent details
• Formatting issues
• Missing information
This is also where technology can become a valuable tool.
Artificial intelligence platforms such as ChatGPT and Claude can help authors identify mistakes, improve readability, organize ideas, and strengthen their manuscripts.
Sample ChatGPT Editing Prompt
"Act as a professional book editor. Review the following manuscript for grammar, punctuation, spelling, readability, consistency, and flow. Preserve my writing style while suggesting improvements".
Sample Claude Editing Prompt
"Act as a developmental editor. Analyze this manuscript for pacing, character development, clarity, plot consistency, and overall readability. Provide recommendations while maintaining the author's voice".
While AI can be an excellent assistant, remember that your unique voice and creativity are what make your story special.
Step 3: Create Your Book Cover
Readers absolutely judge books by their covers.
Your cover is often the first impression potential readers will have of your work.
A strong cover should:
• Match your genre
• Use professional typography
• Be easy to read
• Look appealing as a small thumbnail image
• Clearly communicate the tone of your book
Whether you hire a designer or create your own cover using Canva or other design software, invest time in making your cover look professional.
Step 4: Purchase Your ISBN
One of the most confusing aspects of publishing is understanding ISBNs.
An ISBN is a unique identification number assigned to a specific book format.
Generally speaking:
• Paperback = 1 ISBN
• Hardcover = 1 ISBN
• Ebook = 1 ISBN
Each format should have its own ISBN.
For example, if you publish both a paperback and an ebook version of the same title, you should have separate ISBNs assigned to each format.
Where Can You Purchase Your Own ISBNs?
Bowker
Bowker is the official ISBN provider in the United States.
Current pricing is approximately:
• 1 ISBN = $125
• 10 ISBNs = $295
• 100 ISBNs = $575
If you plan to publish multiple books or multiple formats, purchasing a block of ISBNs is often the most economical option.
Amazon KDP
Amazon provides an ISBN for paperback books.
Cost: Free
However, Amazon will be listed as the publisher of record for that ISBN.
IngramSpark
IngramSpark offers ISBNs for $85 each through their publishing platform.
This option is often less expensive than purchasing a single ISBN directly through Bowker and may be a good choice for authors who are publishing through IngramSpark.
Step 5: Choose Your Publishing Platform
Two of the most popular self publishing platforms are Amazon KDP and IngramSpark.
Amazon KDP
Pros:
• Easy to use
• Free to publish
• Large customer base
• Fast publishing process
IngramSpark
Pros:
• Global distribution
• Access to bookstores
• Library distribution
• Professional publishing options
• Print on demand services
Many independent authors choose to publish through both platforms to maximize their reach and distribution opportunities. However, if you choose IngramSpark, your books will automatically generate to Amazon. (FYI, You will need to authorize IngramSpark to allow your e-books on Apple Books.)
Common Mistakes New Authors Should Avoid
Do Not Skip Editing
Even the best stories benefit from careful editing.
Do Not Use Low Resolution Images
Most publishers require images to be at least 300 DPI for quality printing.
Do Not Rush the Process
Take time to review every detail before publishing.
Do Not Ignore Marketing
Publishing your book is only the beginning.
Readers must know your book exists.
Marketing Tips for New Authors
• Create an author website (Webador is a very easy one to use. However, once you publish through IngramSpark, you will have an option to purchase your website through them for $6.99 a month.
• Create an email. You can actually opt in to one with Webador.
• Build an email list
• Start a blog
• Create social media accounts. Yes create you an authors Facebook, Instagram, TikTok page separate from your personal page.
• Share your writing journey
• Connect with readers
• Request honest reviews
People often become interested in the author before they purchase the book.
Let your audience get to know you.
Using AI to Help Illustrate Children's Books
For children's authors, AI can also be helpful when brainstorming illustrations and visual concepts.
Using both Canva and AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Claude will save you so much time and money.
Illustration Prompt Example
"Create a colorful children's book illustration featuring a curious young child exploring outer space through imagination. Bright colors, educational themes, friendly expressions, and a storybook style suitable for young readers".
Always review illustrations carefully and ensure they align with your vision and publishing requirements.
You Can Become a Writer Too
Before you leave this page, I want to encourage you to do one thing.
Pull out those old journals.
Pull out those notebooks.
Pull out those scraps of paper you have been saving for years.
Read them again.
You may discover that your future book has been waiting for you all along.
Use tools like ChatGPT and Claude to help organize your ideas, identify errors, strengthen your writing, brainstorm illustrations, and polish your manuscript.
Use iMovie if you have an Apple device or CapCut if you have an Android to create videos to post about your book release.
But remember this:
Technology can assist you.
It cannot replace you.
Your experiences are unique.
Your voice is unique.
Your story is unique.
The world does not need another copy of someone else.
It needs your story.
So start writing.
Keep writing.
And never stop believing that your words matter.
Listen!! If I can become an author, you can too.
Until next time,
Mizz Phine
Founder, Bigfine's Corner
Author of the My Magical Mind Series
Thank you for being part of The Dream Builders community. Keep reading, keep writing, and never stop believing in your dreams.
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