During a tough economy, when traditional publishers are tightening their belts and accepting fewer authors, printing less books and spending less on promoting books they've already printed, a writer's dream of becoming a published author doesn't have to end--or even be put on hold. Unpublished and published authors alike learn valuable tips to successfully and profitably self-publish and market books from the updated second edition of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing: How to Produce and Market Your Book On a Budget written by 24-year veteran publisher Linda F. Radke, owner of Story Monsters LLC, a producer of award-winning traditionally-, partnership- and self-published books for all ages. Authors that follow Radke's expert advice will get their work to readers faster, while maintaining creative control--and making more money! "There used to be a taboo about self-published books, but not anymore," says Radke. "I have personally consulted many authors on the path to publishing, getting their books into major bookstores and distributed by major distribution houses, as well as garnering them distinguished industry awards. The secret is in creating a quality product and knowing the ropes, which I reveal in detail in The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing." While Radke's manual gives writers the nuts and bolts of publishing, such as copywriting, acquiring an ISBN, editing, typesetting, printing and distributing, etc., in an easy-to-digest manner, it doesn't end there. Readers also receive an invaluable arsenal of conventional--and sometimes unconventional--methods for marketing, promoting and obtaining free publicity. In addition to updating all information to remain current with the times and ever-changing publishing industry, the second edition of The Economical Guide to Self-Publishing includes brief articles from other traditionally and self-published authors, who share their candid experiences on the front lines of promoting books.