One of the biggest jobs, I think, in preparing a book for self-publishing is the interior page layout. I can’t stand the look or feel of non-professional layout jobs, so I want to take whatever steps are necessary to avoid that and produce a high-quality book. And I think that’s going to require some pretty big steps. I found an informative Overview of Page Layout Programs by Pete Masterson that I just finished reading. It confirmed what I already anticipated: step one is to purchase the Adobe InDesign software.

I’ve been holding off for two reasons – 1. It’s very expensive, 2. From what I hear, it has a steep learning curve.

This goes right along with what I’m realizing more and more about self-publishing. It’s expensive. It’s hard. I’ve been tempted several times to just “throw in the towel” and try to find a publisher – surely that would be easier, right?! But then I’m reminded of what an incredible learning process this has been and will continue to be if I stick it out. The information and skills that I’m learning now will always be useful, so I consider it time and energy well spent. Even the thought of learning a new design software is somewhat exciting because I know it will open up a world of other opportunities and project ideas in the future.

It’s a risky business to be sure. But this self-publishing journey sure is an adventure!