Publishing Process
Editing
In the publishing process a book goes through three phases of editing:
1. Developmental/Substantive Editing
Developmental editing starts from the very beginning with the idea and outline, who the book is written for, and basic concepts/themes, through to story and character development, identifying inconsistencies with tense and perspective, finding plot holes and ensuring that all elements of a good plot structure are in place, such as characters and setting, conflict and rising action, an overarching theme, a climax or turning point, falling action and resolution.
2. Copy/line Editing
Once the manuscript has been through the developmental editing process (which can take several months depending on what stage of development the manuscript is in when we begin working with an author), it then moves to copy/line editing. Line editing focuses on sentence structure, grammar, spelling, word choice and punctuation.
3. Final Edit and Proofread
The final proofread is to catch any typos, punctuation or any other errors that were missed once the book is designed and layout is complete. Of course there is overlap in each phase but a set of fresh eyes is always important in the second and third editing phases.
Publishing Options
1. Partner Publishing
OC Publishing uses a hybrid model known as partner publishing, a fee-based model that is a cross between self-publishing and traditional publishing, whereby the author and publisher share the costs of the publishing process. With this model, the author receives a higher percentage of royalties. In the partner publishing process, we work with professional editors and designers and set up the title on IngramSpark, a publishing/distribution/printing platform for indie authors and small presses. We coordinate all the steps required in the publishing process and the book is published under OC Publishing.
Cost: The average cost to the author is $3000–$6000, depending on the complexity of the design, whether or not illustrations are needed, and amount of editing required.
2. Self-Publishing Coaching
If the author is interested in exploring a self-publishing path but needs some guidance, we can coach authors through the process. The author liaises directly with the editors and book designers, either chosen by them or recommended by OC publishing. We assist in the set up of an author account on IngramSpark. The author is responsible for uploading all files, filling in required book information (metadata) and then publishing their book themselves, under their own name, with our support throughout the process.
Coaching rates: $50/hr – the author can schedule as many sessions as needed.
Author, Cindy Tingley at a book signing at Chapters/Indigo in Halifax, NS.
Additional Support
Regardless of the option selected, we also assist authors in the development of their online author platforms, which includes setting up on social media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram) and developing profiles for Amazon's Author Central and Goodreads.
In either case, once the book is published, the author owns the copyright. If published under the OC Publishing name, as a Canadian publisher, the book is registered with Library and Archives Canada.
