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In this blogpost, we explain how to get your book on Amazon.

For many Indian authors, seeing their book on Amazon is a dream come true. Amazon’s vast reach and reputation can help you connect with readers around the world. But how exactly do you get your book on Amazon?

Here’s a friendly, no-jargon guide to making it happen.

Choose Your Path: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing

Before diving in, figure out how you want to publish your book:

Traditional Publishing:

• You submit your manuscript to a publishing house.
• If accepted, they handle the editing, cover design, printing, distribution (including listing your book on Amazon).
• The publisher pays you royalties (usually after deducting their costs).

Self-Publishing:

• You control the entire process—editing, design, pricing, marketing.
• Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform makes self-publishing accessible and affordable.
• You keep a larger share of royalties compared to traditional deals.

Preparing Your Manuscript

Whether you’re going the traditional or self-publishing route, your manuscript needs to be polished. Here’s what to focus on:

• Editing: Don’t skip this! Work with a professional editor to refine grammar, structure, and flow.
• Cover Design: Readers do judge books by their covers—get a professional, eye-catching design that fits your genre.
• Formatting: For KDP, your manuscript should be in a clean, digital-friendly format (like Word or PDF).

3 Steps to Get Your Book on Amazon

Let’s explore the different ways you can get your book on Amazon.

Setting Up on Amazon KDP

If you’re self-publishing, it’s time to sign up on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Here’s how:

Create an Account:

• Visit kdp.amazon.com.
• Use your Amazon account to log in, or create a new one.

Enter Book Details:

• Fill in your title, subtitle, author name, book description, keywords, and categories.
• This is crucial—these details help readers find your book.

Upload Your Manuscript and Cover:

• Upload your manuscript file.
• Upload your cover image (KDP also offers a Cover Creator tool if you’re starting out).

Pricing and Royalties:

• Set your price and choose between 35% or 70% royalty options (depending on your book’s price and region).
• Consider your target audience and what similar books cost.

Print and eBook Options

To get your book on Amazon, you need to choose between what formats do you want your book to nbe available in. For self-published authors, Amazon KDP allows you to publish:

• eBook (Kindle edition): Accessible on Kindle devices and apps worldwide.
• Paperback (Print on Demand): Amazon prints and ships copies as they are ordered. No need for big print runs.

This flexibility is perfect for Indian authors looking to reach both digital readers and those who prefer physical books.

Adding an Already Published Book

Does it make sense for you to get your book on Amazon if you have already printed it locally?

Yes! If your book has already been published through another channel like a small press, self-publishing service, or even traditionally, here’s how you can still sell and distribute it through Amazon:

Check Your Publishing Rights

First, make sure you have the legal rights to distribute your book on Amazon. For traditionally published books, you’ll need your publisher’s permission. If you’re the copyright holder (self-published or small press), you’re good to go.

Use Amazon’s Expanded Distribution (For Print Books)

If you have print copies, you can list them through Amazon’s Expanded Distribution. This helps your book appear on Amazon’s global stores and also makes it easier for libraries and bookstores to order it.

They currently work with distributors in the United States and the United Kingdom, but booksellers and libraries around the world may purchase books from these distributors. It’s free to enroll your paperback in Expanded Distribution, and it allows your book to be made broadly available outside of Amazon.

However, enrolling your paperback in Expanded Distribution doesn’t guarantee it will be accepted by distributors or ordered by a particular bookseller or library. The decision to list your book lies with distributors, and the decision to order your book lies solely with the individual booksellers and libraries. Unfortunately, Amazon can’t provide details on which booksellers and libraries purchased your book.

List as a Third-Party Seller

You can also list your book for sale as a third-party seller through Amazon Seller Central. Here, you handle shipping and inventory yourself, but Amazon provides the online marketplace.

Upload a New Edition

If you’re reissuing your book with updates, a new cover, or additional content, you can upload it as a new edition on Amazon KDP. This is a great way to breathe new life into your book and reach new readers.

Link Editions

If your book has multiple editions (e.g., eBook, paperback, audiobook), make sure they’re linked together on Amazon for easy discoverability by readers.

Adding an already published book to Amazon can boost your visibility and sales, especially if you’re aiming to reach readers in India and beyond.

Launch and Promote

Dear Authors,

Remember that to get your book on Amazon is only step one, now it’s time to tell the world!

Promotion Ideas:

• Use social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) to build excitement.
• Run Amazon Marketing Services (AMS) ads if you have the budget.
• Offer free or discounted copies for a limited time to boost visibility.
• Reach out to book bloggers and reviewers.

If You’re Traditionally Published

If you’re working with a publisher, they will handle Amazon listing and distribution for you. However, you should still:

• Check your book’s Amazon page to ensure details are accurate.
• Share the Amazon link on your social channels.
• Coordinate with your publisher on marketing efforts.

Tips for Indian Authors to Get Your Book on Amazon

Regional Languages:
Amazon supports many Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Marathi. Consider publishing in your native language to tap into regional readership.

Pricing for India:
You can set a special price for the Indian market (in INR) to make your book more accessible to local readers.

Keep Learning:
The world of self-publishing is always evolving. Read blogs, join author communities, and stay updated on trends.

Common Questions

Do I need an ISBN?

For print books, yes (Amazon can provide one for free if you don’t have your own). For eBooks, Amazon assigns an ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number).

Will Amazon handle shipping and payments?

Yes! For both print and eBooks, Amazon takes care of order processing, shipping, and payments. You’ll receive royalties directly to your bank account.

Can I update my book later?

Absolutely. KDP lets you make updates to your manuscript, cover, or pricing at any time.

How to get your book on Amazon can feel overwhelming, but remember—it’s never been easier for Indian authors to share their stories globally. Whether you’re an aspiring debut novelist, a regional language poet, or a short story writer, Amazon KDP opens doors to a worldwide audience.

So, gather your manuscript, take a deep breath, and get ready to see your name in the Amazon store!

Ready to launch your book on Amazon?

If you’d like a hand with editing, formatting, or book marketing, reach out to Keemiya Creatives. We are here to make your publishing journey smooth and stress-free.