Forty-Six

As with most serious independent authors/publishers I worked very hard to create a high quality book for my readers.  I worked with a graphic designer to design a striking, eye catching cover, and I’ve received a number of compliments for the cover.

I researched the type and color of paper to use in the book and the type and size of the font.  I have been satisfied with the high quality of the paper and the font.

I hired a content editor, copyeditor and proofreader to work with me to guarantee the quality of the final book.  The proofreader was instructional, I knew nothing about semi colons; and, was inspired to take a grammar refresher after my book was published.  I was fortunate that the copy editor provided line edits which add polish to my book.  The content editor convinced me to introduce one character much earlier in the story and to revise the ending.  All of these changes, I believe, improved the quality of my book.

Once the file was uploaded to Create Space I received a hard edition of the book to edit.  It was both a thrill and a chore to look for all the little proof reading errors.   I chose to make the edits myself to the electronic file.  I edited my book three more times on the electronic file.  Having completed four proofreading edits I was both exhausted from the process and ready to launch my book into the world.

After receiving my complimentary order of books, I just looked at it in wonder.  I never thought about giving it one more read for proofreading errors.  I “trusted” that it was perfect.  Recently, to prepare for my Tuesday Morning Book Talk discussion of, Murphy’s Troubles, there on page 3 was a proofreading error.  This was the error: ‘Do they think with their arses’?’  What an obvious flaw, I was horrified. There was another error on page 10, 17, 20, etc. 

I decided to read my own book specifically for proofreading errors and I found forty-six!  When I shared my discovery with my wife even she said:   “That’s a lot.”  She has a reputation for understatement.

I wondered why no one had ever said anything to me.  None of the people who posted a review on Amazon said anything.  The professional reviewer at Inkspots, Karyn Saemann, didn’t mention the problem.  Were they all trying to be kind?  I don’t need that type of kindness.

I am embarrassed.  I contacted Create Space and I was able to correct the errors for only $55.00.  I’ve requested a hard copy proof to review, trying to proof from a document is just too difficult.

I have learned a very valuable lesson.  I must never again let the thrill of excitement of publication to let me waiver in ensuring the next book is blemish free.