The blog
Plain-English answers to the questions every new author asks. Start with the full Amazon guide or pick a topic.
November 10, 2026 · 7 min read
A plain-English walkthrough of self-publishing on Amazon KDP: account, tax interview, formatting, cover, pricing, proof copy and going live, in order.
November 10, 2026 · 6 min read
Pick your KDP trim size, set inside margins by page count, decide on bleed and export a print-ready PDF. Plain numbers, no guessing, with a margins table.
November 10, 2026 · 6 min read
Work out your KDP cover size and spine width from trim size, page count and paper color. Includes the formula, a worked 6 x 9 example and spine text rules.
November 10, 2026 · 7 min read
KDP gives you a free ISBN, or you can buy your own from Bowker. Learn the difference, when your own is worth it, and how to get and enter it, step by step.
November 10, 2026 · 6 min read
KDP ebook royalties are 35% or 70%, and paperbacks pay 60% or 50% minus printing. See a worked example and how to check your real number in KDP's calculator.
November 10, 2026 · 6 min read
Yes, you can publish a book made with AI on Amazon, but KDP asks you to disclose AI-generated content. Learn generated vs assisted and how to answer honestly.
November 10, 2026 · 7 min read
Make your book sound like you, not a machine: build a voice profile, read it aloud, vary sentences and cut stock phrases. Plus the truth about AI detectors.
November 10, 2026 · 7 min read
Self-publish a children's picture book on Amazon KDP: premium color, 300 DPI art, bleed, trim sizes, the 24-page minimum, Kindle Kids' Book Creator and more.
November 10, 2026 · 7 min read
How to make an audiobook for Audible through ACX: who narrates, how to record a clean track, the audio specs in plain English, and how to upload and distribute.
November 10, 2026 · 6 min read
Comp titles are the books your reader already buys. Learn how to find three to five of them on Amazon, check them, and use them to position your book.