12 Amazing Self-Publishing Success Stories To Inspire You

While there are countless self-publishing success stories, it’s important to discuss exactly why these authors found success in order to fuel your own. Did you know that some of your most beloved novels come from self-published authors who found success apart from a traditional publisher?

If you loved The Tale of Peter Rabbit as a kid or fell in love with Eragon as you grew older, you’ve already read the work of successful self-publishers. Delving into what helped these authors succeed can act as inspiration for you. Who knows, you could be the next author to join these self-publishing success stories.

Self-publishing success stories: what you learn

• Have any self-published books been successful?
• Can you be successful with self-publishing?
• How much does the average self-published book make?
• Is self-publishing still profitable?

Have any self-published books been successful?

A tremendous amount of books have made their mark in the self-publishing space. Below are just twelve of the numerous self-publishing success stories that come from authors much like yourself. I also include a tip as to why they may have been such a breakout success! 

1. Creativity: It’s not what you think 

Don Campbell is a renowned artist, one of our students, and the first in our self-publishing success stories list. With more than three decades in sculpting and the recipient of many awards, Campbell explores the limits of creativity by sharing about both his art and his life. 

Tip: Campbell founded a graphic design agency. His book directly correlates with his design work. How could you use your current occupation or hobby to enhance the reach of your book? 

2. The Tale of Peter Rabbit 

Beatrix Potter attempted to traditionally publish her book, only to experience rejection from numerous publishers. She chose to self-publish and even illustrated the story herself (talk about the OG for author branding!). Her book did so well that a traditional publisher picked it up.

Tip: Potter put in the effort to achieve her dream and refused to give up. 

3. Rich Dad, Poor Dad

Robert Kiyosaki wrote a book on finance that felt more like a novel than a business book. While it took awhile to take off, he has now built an empire on this beloved title and joins the ranks of self-publishing success stories.

Tip: Kiyosaki wrote to his strengths, but in a way that was accessible for the average reader. 

4. Chronic Pain Rehabilitation 

Dr. Evan Parks uses the latest advances in neuroscience and pain psychology to help his readers find freedom from chronic pain. Another one of our students, Dr. Parks uses his 30-plus years of experience to write this helpful nonfiction.

Tip: Use your expertise to help others overcome difficulties.

5. Start From Zero

Dane Maxwell offers the story of an individual who started from nothing and became a millionaire before the age of 30. 

Tip: Our authors often use their own trial and error to help others succeed. What’s a lesson you learned that you could teach others? 

6. Still Alice

Lisa Genova, a Harvard professor diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, chose to self-publish after numerous rejections. Just two years later her book gained the attention of Simon & Schuster—and a contract! 

Tip: Even if you’re writing a book for the first time, if you believe in your story—share it. You never know what may happen.

7. Eragon

At just 15-years-old, Christopher Paolini wrote what would become his debut novel. At 19-years-old, he enlisted his parents for help, self-published, and widely promoted his book. Knopf, a reputable traditional publisher, offered young Paolini a deal. To date, he has sold over 35 million copies. 

Tip: Learn how to publish a book for free, then market it with everything you have.

8. Wool

Now known as the television series, Silo, Wool was originally self-published with KDP. Hugh Howey brought in over $100,000 a month from his sales. 

Tip: Self-publishing vs traditional publishing carries little weight if the book isn’t well written. Do your best work, and your sales can speak for themselves! 

9. Somersett 

Phillip Goodrich was a general surgeon who decided to write on the weekends. He self-published and soon gained attention around the nation. His book earned the place of #1 New Release on Amazon for 48 hours.

Tip: Your weekend writing hobby could be more important than you realize. Keep at it. 

10. The Martian 

We know Matt Damon from the film of the same title, but The Martian started out small. Andy Weir didn’t even partner with one of the many self-publishing companies out there, but shared the story for free on the web. Crown Publishing published it in 2014, just three years after Weir started posting it to his own website. 

Tip: Your author website can play a pivotal role in your author dreams. Even a free, template version is a great start.

11. A Naked Singularity

Sergio De La Pava’s debut legal thriller began as a rejected manuscript. Self-published in 2008, it garnered the attention of the University of Chicago Press, which published it in 2012. 

Tip: Rejections are not always a testament to your writing or premise. Sometimes, it takes time to gain traction. View rejection for what it is: subjective feedback. 

12. Sorted: Freedom through Structure 

Gillian Perkins is a bestselling author and was one of our students. Her strategy enabled her book to sell 10,000 copies in the first few months.

Tip: Strategize your marketing plan prior to release day, and never underestimate the power of reviews.  

Can you be successful with self-publishing?

As our authors’ self-publishing success stories and the classic authors mentioned above reveal, you can find massive success in the world of self-publishing. 

Take Christopher Paolini’s standout marketing plan. At just 19-years-old, Paolini orchestrated his own book tour and garnered the interest of Knopf. 

Consider the success story of Gillian Perkins. One of our over 7000 students, she sold 10,000 copies of her book in the first months of its release. Allow these self-publishing success stories to encourage you in your own journey to achieving your dreams. 

How much does the average self-published book make?

According to Publishers Weekly, in a recent survey, “The average income of respondents was over $82,600 last year, an increase of 34%.” 

They went on to say that, “The report found that almost a quarter of respondents had not yet started to earn money from their writing, bringing in between 0 and $1,000, while 28% were generating more than six-figures. Almost half of the respondents (43.8%) reported income of more than $20,000.”

The discrepancies between such figures are due to outliers. Hugh Howey, who brought in six figures per month from his book sales, is one example of many self-publishing success stories. His success, monetarily, is arguably on the high end of earning. On the lower end, even making an extra $1000 per month is a substantial amount of pocket change. 

Is self-publishing still profitable? Next steps.

As these self-publishing success stories show, yes, it can be more than profitable to self-publish! If you are ready to give your own book the possibility of a self-publishing success story, simply use our free Book Outline Generator to get started.

Outlining your book is one of the first steps in your publishing journey. If you need help, feel free to reach out. With 7000+ students, we are more than happy to help you reach your author goals!

Self-Publishing Success FAQ

What is the success rate of self-publishing?

Success in self-publishing varies widely. While many authors find moderate success, some achieve significant financial and critical acclaim. Success often depends on the quality of the book, marketing efforts, and reader engagement.

Can a self-published book be successful?

Absolutely. Many self-published books have achieved success, with some even being picked up by traditional publishers. Notable examples include “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter and “Eragon” by Christopher Paolini.

How much does the average self-published book make?

According to a survey by Publishers Weekly, the average income for self-published authors was over $82,600 last year. However, income can vary greatly, with some authors earning six figures while others make between $0 and $1,000.

Has a self-published book ever become a bestseller?

Yes, several self-published books have become bestsellers. “The Martian” by Andy Weir and “Wool” by Hugh Howey are notable examples that have reached bestseller status and gained significant attention.

How do self-published authors get noticed?

Self-published authors can get noticed through effective marketing strategies, such as leveraging social media, building an author website, engaging with readers, and obtaining book reviews. Consistent marketing efforts and high-quality content are key.

Is it a good idea to self-publish a book?

Self-publishing can be a smart choice for many authors, offering complete control over the publishing process and higher royalty rates. However, it requires a commitment to quality and marketing to achieve success.