FAQs

Here is a selection of questions we’re often asked at YouByYou.

Writing

1. I have very little experience of writing. Does it matter?
Not at all. Our advice is aimed at beginners as well as more experienced writers. We give guidance with style and grammar, and will even ‘ghost-write’ your manuscript for you. If you prefer talking about your life to writing about it, we will tape your story and provide you with a transcript.

2. Does my manuscript have to be written on a computer?
It’s easier for us to work with if it is – and also cheaper for you! – but we suggest that you write using the method with which you are most comfortable, be it pen and paper or computer.

3. I have started my life story, but have lost my way.
Losing motivation is common. We can read what you have written so far and give you suggestions about how to carry on. You can come to us at any stage of the writing process.

4. I have finished my manuscript but don’t know what to do next.
Who do you want to read your book? Knowing your audience — family, friends or the wider community – will play a large part in determining what you do next. We would be happy to talk to you at this stage.

Publishing

1. Do you publish books?
No, we’re not commercial publishers. If you want your book to be commercially published, look for literary agents and publishers in the annual Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook.

2. Are you a vanity publisher?
No, we are not a vanity publisher either. We don’t encourage authors to pay thousands of pounds for their book when they have little realistic chance of it selling.

3. Do you self-publish books?
Yes, most of our books are produced for private use, in other words they are not sold to the public. There are two exceptions to this. First, we will help you self-publish a book for fund-raising purposes; and second, we will help you to sell your book if you have a special interest or local audience.

4. What is an ISBN number?
An ISBN number is a code which allows bookshops and internet booksellers to order your book.

5. Do you market books?
We offer advice about the best way to market your book, including listing it on YouByYou’s website. Local newspapers and parish magazines are always looking for interesting publications.

6. Am I responsible for selling my book?
We will sell your book from YouByYou’s website, and other online retailers. You keep all the proceeds from YouByYou sales, and part of the proceeds from online retailers, each of which will take a percentage.

You are responsible for in-person sales in your local community or to a special-interest group.

7. Do you produce books other than life stories?
Yes, we also produce local histories, village picture books and fund-raising books for charities.

8. Are you able to work with people outside Kent and the south-east?
Yes, we have worked with many customers outside our area, including overseas. We usually communicate by email which is quick and efficient. Depending on the country we either have the books printed locally, or we print them here and have them shipped to the customer.

Please contact us with any questions. Take a look at our Client Reviews.