At last, a comprehensive guide to the nigh-incomprehensible world of publishing! This frank yet encouraging overview is so much more than a simple handbook. Rather, it is a road map of today's publishing industry writ large. Indie professional Christina Kann ventures where few editors dare to tread by exploring the various available paths to publication, from the Big Five traditional houses to online do-it-yourself platforms to the ever-evolving 'hybrid' model. Among concise explanations of what to expect from book production, printing, marketing, and distribution, this guide examines how different types of publishers approach each phase, allowing authors to determine which path is the best fit for them. Whether you're aiming for the NYT bestseller list or just want to create a special gift for your grandkids, Kann has accomplished what few publishers are willing to try: she has explained how book publishing actually works.