Hey friends! First time author here. My interactive play book is currently being illustrated and will debut this year! I'm building a following now and feel very confident in my ability to sell my books, but the roadblock I keep hitting is offset vs print on demand. The whooole world seems to be telling me that POD is the way to go, but the options are limited and the profit margins are super low. Here are my considerations and my questions: - My book is really for toddlers, so a board book is ideal. I could do a hardback through IngramSpark. I do NOT want a paperback product. - I got a quote from Harleigh's recommended board book printer for $2 per book with a 12-14 week turnaround, which is a GREAT profit that I think may be worth the wait while I continue to build a following. This is in comparison with a $10 POD hardback through IngramSpark. - Do Amazon sales work the same (algorithm, categories, etc) if I sell books through a Seller account rather than a KDP account and manage my own inventory? This will affect my marketing and advertising strategy. - Will not using IngramSpark negatively impact my ability to sell wholesale to bookstores and libraries? I can do the legwork but I'm not sure if there's a hard line that will make these institutions unwilling to make a purchase through Shopify or through me directly. Anything you can provide in the way of personal stories or Growth Academy resources or outside resources would be VERRRYYYY appreciated!

I’ve been getting a lot of DMs and emails lately asking, “What exactly do you help authors with in your 1:1 calls?”- so I figured I’d make this post and pin it here! My 1:1 Strategy Calls are for children’s book authors who are ready to stop guessing and finally get a plan that actually works for their business. Here’s what I can help you with: - Book Marketing & Visibility – how to get your books seen and sold (organically and strategically) - Self-Publishing Guidance – step-by-step help from publishing to launch - Sales Beyond Amazon – how to sell wholesale, pitch to retailers, and make more from local events - Social Media & Content Strategy – what to post, how to promote, and how to attract loyal readers - Email, Funnels & Branding – growing your list, refining your message, and building a brand that sells If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not sure what to focus on next, this is where I come in. I’ll help you find clarity, direction, and a realistic plan that fits your goals and schedule. Book a Full 1:1 Strategy Call (60 minutes) 👉 https://calendly.com/harleighmanske/1-1-coaching-call Book a Mini Coaching Session (30 minutes) 👉 calendly.com/harleighmanske/1-1-coaching-call-discounted-clone Read Testimonials from Fellow Kidlit Author Growth Academy Members 👉 https://www.skool.com/author-growth-academy?c=a1c772cc92ef492e8fe48d603ac04d01&s=newest-cm&fl= Leave a comment down below if you have any questions!

Hi Everyone! My mom and I recently finished and printed my first children’s book series (The Sploot Friends 🐶), inspired by my two corgis, and I’m now starting to think more seriously about distribution. I’m curious if anyone here has had experience with IngramSpark—especially when it comes to getting books into bookstores or libraries? I’ve heard mixed things, so I’d love to hear what’s worked for you, what hasn’t, and whether you’d recommend using it alongside KDP or another platform. Really appreciate any insight!

What is the best book review platform? I am currently using Book Bounty but have not been impressed and I don't get verified reviews.

Hey Harleigh, I watched a video you made about the people (I think you said 30..not sure) authors need prior to releasing the book so that you can join another book promotion site. I have watched all the videos on your channel that I thought could be it but, unfortunately have not found it. Would you be kind and post it here please? Also :-) I took your advice and joined Instagram!!!! https://www.instagram.com/dutchiehuis/ I don't know why I am so terrified of Instagram. I think it's because everyone is so "perfect looking" there. Anyways my second question is, can you please tell me how to find the authors community, you said they were very supportive. I would appreciate it. Your content is so valuable to me...soooo big thank you!!!