Q. What kind of printing do you use?
A. We utilize print-on-demand technology. That being said, books are printed only as they are purchased.
Q. What type of file do I need to give you in order to publish my book?
A. Our preferred file type for text is .doc. We’ll take that file and convert as necessary. Children’s book illustrations should be provided as high resolution (300 dpi) JPG, PNG, TIFF or PSD (Adobe Photoshop) files.
Q. How should I format my book before sending it to you?
A. For all self-publishing packages (excluding Children’s Book) please submit your book to us as follows: Double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, 8.5 x 11″ page size, default Microsoft Word margins.
Q. Can I include color pictures or graphs in my book?
A. Pictures, graphs, or illustrations of any type must be black and white (except with the purchase of one of our full-color packages). We do not charge extra for any of them.
Q. I use quotes in my book. Is that a problem?
A. We take copyright infringement very seriously. DO NOT use quotes or information from another published work without first receiving written permission from the copyright owner.
Q. Could I see a sample publishing contract?
A. Please contact us via email (info@mindstirmedia.com) and we’ll send you a sample contract to examine.
Q. Will I still have the rights to my book if I publish with MindStir Media?
A. Yes, you retain all publishing rights and copyright remains under your name.
Q. Do you publish all genres?
A. At this time we publish nearly every genre except erotica. If you’re unsure whether we accept your genre, please contact us.
Q. How long does it take to publish with MindStir?
A. We’re normally able to publish a title approximately 90 days after we receive entire payment from the author.
Q. Do you publish international authors?
A. Yes, but we do not currently serve all countries. Please contact us if you’re unsure whether we publish authors from your country.
Q. How often will I receive royalties?
A. Our authors receive royalty payments approximately every 90 days.
Q. How do I begin the process of publishing my book with MindStir?
A. The beginning process usually consists of these steps: Step 1: Call us at 800-767-0531 to discuss your project. Step 2: If we decide to publish your book, we’ll email you a non-exclusive contract to peruse. Step 3: If you approve the contract, we’ll ask you to sign and return it to us. Step 4: You’ll need to send us payment — either in full or as part of one of our payment plans. Step 5: Provide us with your final copy/draft as an accepted file type.
Q. Once my book is published with MindStir will you setup book signings for me?
A. As an independent author, it is up to you to setup signings and events.
Q. Will readers be able to buy my book at bookstores?
A. The majority of your sales will be through online bookstores/retailers. Brick-and-mortar bookstores, especially large chain stores, are sometimes reluctant to stock titles produced by print-on-demand technology. Virtually every physical bookstore should, however, have no problem purchasing your book upon customer request.
Q. How many rounds of editing do I get with self-publishing packages that contain editorial?
A. One round of proofreading is included in Gold, Diamond, and Platinum publishing packages. You’ll be charged for each additional round as outlined in the contract.
Q. Who do you use to distribute your books?
A. A partial list of our paperback, hardcover and e-book distributors/retailers can be found here.
Q. Do you offer hardcover book printing?
A. Yes, we have several hardcover publishing packages available.
Q. What payment methods do you accept?
A. We accept checks (allow 7 business days to clear), all major credit cards, Paypal, and bank wire transfers through the SWIFT system for international authors.
Q. Can you start the publishing process for me if I send you a downpayment on one of the self-publishing packages?
A. We prefer upfront payment because it keeps publishing turnaround time at around 90 days, but we do offer payment plans that allow you to pay through several installments.
