FAQ

Questions about what Motion Publishing does and how we do it.

General

Is Motion just another self-publishing outfit?

No. True self-publishing means that one person—the author—does everything by herself or himself. Motion Publishing works with authors and its team of dedicated professionals.

What kind of books does Motion publish?

Motion Publishing generally focuses on non-fiction technology and business books, but there’s no hard and fast rule.

What kinds of book formats does Motion support?

Name it. Hardcover, paperback, and all major eBook formats: Kindle, iPad, and the Nook.

Can Motion handle electronic distribution?

Yes. Amazon, BN.com, Ingram, Kobo, and more.

Color, black and white, or both?

Whatever you like. We can handle it. Note that books in color cost quite a bit more to print.

What do you look for in a prospective author?

Because of Motion’s model, authors can be as extroverted or introverted as they want. As a general rule, though, extroverts tend to be better marketers than introverts.

Will the Motion team work behind the scenes for another publishing company?

Yes. Motion will gladly do the heavy lifting for other publishing outfits and take no credit, if that’s the way you want to go.

What about white-label versions of books?

Yes, that’s possible. There’s a minimum order of 500 copies to do a proper white-label version of any Motion book.

Will proper bookstores accept Motion books?

Yes, it has happened before. Note, however, that under one percent of all books can be found in even the largest B&N’s. It’s a tricky game, and no B&N will stock a book from Lulu, iUniverse, or AuthorHouse.

Cost and Timing

How much money does it cost to take a book to market?

It depends. For a 250-page book with a custom cover, proper editing job, professional index, interior design, and the like, we’re certainly not talking about $500.

The bare minimum to publish a full-length book through Motion Publishing is $15,000 (USD), although individual services cost less.

How long does it take to get a physical book to market?

Well, it depends on many factors. However, because Motion specializes in management books with a technology bent, timing is everything. To that end, books can go to print anywhere from two to three months after the initial manuscript is completed. Contrast this with how long traditional publishers need to take a book to market.

How long does it take to convert an e-book?

Again, it depends on number of words, layout, images, etc. Usually, it takes about two weeks.

How much do I have to pay Motion after my book is released?

Nothing.

That means that I get to keep everything, right?

No. You have to pay for printing and Amazon or B&N take a cut. Still, your margins will be much higher than if you work with a traditional publisher.

Can Motion authors use Kickstarter and other crowdfunding sites?

Absolutely. Go for it.

Other

Does Motion offer a formal referral program?

Yes. If you bring a project to Motion, a small referral fee will be paid based upon the size of the project. You won’t be getting rich off of it.

I'm a freelancer. How can I work with Motion?

Needs vary depending on the projects going on. Motion works with highly skilled people as independent contractors. Connect if you’re interested in working with Motion.