How Book Publishing Companies Work: A Beginner’s Guide

Publishing a book is a dream for many — but understanding how book publishing companies work is key to making the right choices.

What Is a Book Publishing Company?

A publishing company handles the production, distribution, and sometimes marketing of a book. There are three main types:

Traditional publishers – They select, invest in, and publish select authors.

Hybrid publishers – A mix of traditional and self-publishing models.

Self publishing companies – You pay for services, but retain full control.

The Publishing Process (Simplified)

Whether traditional or self-published, these are the key steps:

Manuscript submission or delivery

Editing and revision

Interior formatting and cover design

ISBN assignment

Printing or eBook conversion

Distribution (Amazon, bookstores, etc.)

Who Should Use a Publishing Company?

New authors who want guidance

Writers who prefer not to deal with technical details

Authors aiming for professional presentation and wider reach

Business Model

Traditional publishers make money from book sales and take a cut of royalties.

Self publishing companies make money by charging for services, but you keep 100% of your royalties.

Submitting Your Book

If you go traditional:

Prepare a polished manuscript

Write a strong query letter

Be ready for rejection and delays

If you go self-publishing:

Focus on the best provider for editing, design, and distribution

Conclusion

Whether you want to be discovered by a big publisher or take control and publish your book independently, understanding book publishing companies helps you make smarter decisions as a writer.