Self-publishing has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many authors choosing to take control of their own publishing journey. While self-publishing may have once been seen as a last resort for authors who couldn’t secure a traditional publishing deal, it has now become a viable option for many writers. In fact, some of the most successful and beloved books of all time started out as self-published works. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best-selling books that began as self-published works and the impact they have had on the publishing industry.
1. “Fifty Shades of Grey” by E. L. James
Originally a fan fiction piece based on the “Twilight” series, “Fifty Shades of Grey” was self-published by E. L. James in 2011. After gaining a large following online, the book was picked up by a small Australian publisher and eventually acquired by major publishing house Random House. The book went on to become a worldwide phenomenon, selling over 125 million copies and launching a successful movie franchise. Its success revolutionized the romance genre and opened doors for other self-published authors.
2. “The Martian” by Andy Weir
After being rejected by multiple traditional publishers, Andy Weir decided to self-publish his science fiction novel “The Martian” in 2011. The book gained a strong following and was eventually picked up by Crown Publishing in 2014. It went on to become a New York Times bestseller and was adapted into a blockbuster film starring Matt Damon. Weir’s success as a self-published author has inspired many others to pursue their writing dreams without relying on traditional publishing.
3. “Still Alice” by Lisa Genova
“Still Alice” was originally self-published by neuroscientist Lisa Genova in 2007. The book, which tells the story of a woman’s battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, was rejected by multiple literary agents before Genova decided to self-publish. The book gained attention through word-of-mouth and eventually caught the eye of a traditional publishing house. It went on to become a New York Times bestseller and was adapted into an award-winning film starring Julianne Moore.
4. “The Celestine Prophecy” by James Redfield
The Best-Selling Books That Started as Self-Published Works
Self-published in 1993, “The Celestine Prophecy” initially gained attention through grassroots marketing efforts and word-of-mouth recommendations. The book, which tells the story of a man’s spiritual journey through Peru, became a worldwide phenomenon, selling over 20 million copies. It was later picked up by Warner Books and went on to spend over three years on the New York Times bestseller list.
5. “Eragon” by Christopher Paolini
Written by a teenage Christopher Paolini and self-published by his family’s small press, “Eragon” quickly gained a strong fan base. The book caught the attention of a major publisher and was republished by Knopf in 2003. It went on to become a New York Times bestseller and spawned a successful series of books and a movie adaptation. Paolini’s success as a self-published author at such a young age has inspired many other young writers to pursue their dreams.
6. “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter
One of the most beloved children’s books of all time, “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” was originally self-published by author Beatrix Potter in 1901. After being rejected by multiple publishers, Potter decided to self-publish 250 copies of the book for friends and family. However, the book’s popularity grew and it was eventually picked up by a traditional publishing house. Today, “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” has sold over 45 million copies and has been translated into over 36 languages.
7. “The Joy of Cooking” by Irma S. Rombauer
Self-published in 1931, “The Joy of Cooking” has become a staple in many kitchens around the world. Irma S. Rombauer self-published the book after being rejected by multiple publishers, and it quickly gained a following for its practical and comprehensive approach to cooking. Today, the book has sold over 18 million copies and has been revised and updated by Rombauer’s descendants.
These are just a few of the many success stories of books that began as self-published works. These books have not only sold millions of copies, but they have also had a lasting impact on the publishing industry. They have shown that self-publishing can be a viable option for authors and have opened doors for many writers who may have otherwise been overlooked by traditional publishers.
In conclusion, self-publishing has become a popular and successful path for many authors. The best-selling books that started as self-published works have not only proven the potential for success in self-publishing, but they have also changed the way the publishing industry operates. These books have shown that great writing can find its way to readers, regardless of the publishing route it takes.