The Biggest Challenges Indie Authors Face When Self-Publishing (and How to Overcome Them)
Self-publishing has opened the floodgates for creative voices across the world—particularly in children’s literature. Yet for all its promise, it also brings a unique set of hurdles. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve published multiple titles, understanding the biggest challenges indie authors face can help you prepare, pivot, and persevere.
Here’s a look at the most pressing pain points in the self-publishing journey—along with tips on how to tackle them.
1. Marketing & Discoverability
61% of indie authors cite marketing as their top challenge.
(Source: Written Word Media, 2023)
With over 2 million self-published titles released each year, standing out is no easy feat. Many authors underestimate the marketing lift required after a book is launched. Building an audience, running campaigns, or even understanding how Amazon’s algorithm works can be daunting.
Tips to overcome:
Build your author platform early: Start with a simple website and an email list.
Use social media strategically: Focus on where your readers (or their parents) are—Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.
Leverage Amazon Ads and Meta Ads: Start small, test audiences, and scale.
Collaborate with fellow authors for cross-promotions or newsletter swaps.
2. Budget Constraints
54% of indie authors spend less than $500 to publish a book—but often regret it.
(Source: Alliance of Independent Authors, 2023)
Low-budget publishing can lead to subpar cover design, limited editing, or poor formatting—all of which affect credibility and sales. Yet not everyone has thousands to invest upfront.
Tips to overcome:
Prioritise spending: If you can only afford one thing, invest in a professional editor or proofreader.
Use budget-friendly tools: Canva for graphics, Vellum or Atticus for formatting, and Reedsy for freelancer hires.
Consider crowdfunding or pre-orders to raise funds.
3. Time Management & Burnout
42% of indie authors say balancing writing with full-time work or parenting is a major hurdle.
(Source: Reedsy Author Survey, 2022)
Many authors juggle writing around busy schedules, leading to inconsistent productivity or complete burnout.
Tips to overcome:
Set SMART goals: Break your writing and marketing tasks into manageable chunks.
Use tools like Trello, Notion, or even a simple Google Calendar to plan weekly sprints.
Outsource what you can—whether it's editing, marketing design, or formatting.
4. Navigating the Publishing Process
35% of indie authors struggle with the technical aspects of publishing.
(Source: Written Word Media, 2023)
From ISBN registration to Amazon KDP setup, the back end of publishing can be complex and time-consuming—especially the first time around.
Tips to overcome:
Use platforms like Draft2Digital or IngramSpark for distribution and simplified uploads.
Watch tutorials or take a short course—Reedsy, Skillshare, and YouTube offer free resources.
Join indie author communities on Facebook or Reddit for peer support and advice.
5. Getting Reviews & Social Proof
67% of readers are more likely to buy a book with 10+ reviews.
(Source: BookBub Insights, 2023)
But getting those first reviews can feel like an uphill battle—especially without a large fanbase.
Tips to overcome:
Reach out to book bloggers and children’s book reviewers.
Offer free copies to parents, teachers, or librarians in exchange for honest reviews.
Include a review request at the back of your ebook or printed book.
Use ARC platforms like Booksprout or StoryOrigin to build momentum pre-launch.
Final Thoughts
Self-publishing is empowering, but it’s also a long game. The good news? You’re not alone. Every indie author faces challenges but those who succeed are the ones who learn, adapt, and stay the course.
Stay tuned—my next post will share 10 affordable book marketing tactics that actually work for indie children’s authors!
About the Author:
Emma Macey is the author of Matilda and the Bear and creator of The Independent Author's Guide to Book Marketing: Strategies for Success. She helps aspiring children’s authors navigate the publishing journey with confidence and creativity.