Find Answers to FAQs on Book Publishing

How to Publish a Book in India? | Zorba Books FAQ
Publishing a book in India is an exciting dream, but for many authors—especially debut writers—the process can feel overwhelming. Should you choose self-publishing, traditional publishing, or hybrid publishing in India? What about ISBN registration, copyright protection, printing costs, and eBook publishing?

This complete FAQ guide by Zorba Books answers the most common questions authors have, from the cost of publishing a book in India to how to self-publish a book step-by-step, distribution in bookstores, and even publishing internationally. Whether you’re writing in English or exploring regional language publishing in India, you’ll find clear answers and links to helpful resources here.

Quick Overview – FAQs on Book Publishing

FAQ QuestionQuick Link
How do I figure out which publisher to prefer as a debut author?Go to FAQ 1
What should I take care of before self-publishing?Go to FAQ 2
How long does self-publishing take in India?Go to FAQ 3
What is the full procedure for publishing a book?Go to FAQ 4
Do I need an agent if I self-publish?Go to FAQ 5
Is self-publishing a good idea?Go to FAQ 6
How can I get my self-published book into bookstores?Go to FAQ 7
How can I write and publish in under a year?Go to FAQ 8
How do I get published by a reputed publishing house?Go to FAQ 9
What’s the difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing?Go to FAQ 10
What is the cost of publishing a book?Go to FAQ 11
What are the benefits of publishing an eBook?Go to FAQ 12
Can I copyright my book after publishing?Go to FAQ 13
What is an ISBN? How does it work?Go to FAQ 14
Can Indians publish books internationally?Go to FAQ 15
Can I publish without paying?Go to FAQ 16
Can I publish in regional languages?Go to FAQ 17
What new publishing trends should I know about?Go to FAQ 18

1. How do I figure out which publisher to prefer if I’m new in this field of publishing books? How do I publish a book as a debut author?

a. What are the various ways in which I can publish a book?

2. I want to self-publish a book. What are the basic things I need to take care of to start with this?

3. How long does it take to self-publish a book in India?

4. How do I publish my book? What is the full procedure? How much will I have to pay for this?

5. Do I need an agent to publish my book if I am going the self-publishing way?

6. Is self-publishing a good idea?

7. How do you get your self-published book in bookstores?

8. How can I write and publish my book in under a year?

Plan deadlines (6 months for writing, 6 months for publishing & promotion).

9. How do I get my book published by a good publishing house?

10. What is the difference between self-publishing and traditional publishing, and which one’s better?

11. What is the cost of publishing a book?

12. What are the benefits of publishing an eBook?

13. Can I copyright my book after it is published?

14. What is an ISBN? How does it work?

15. How hard is it for an Indian to have a book published internationally?

16. Can I publish a book without spending money?

17. Can I publish in Indian regional languages?

18. What new trends are shaping publishing?

The Rise of AI in Publishing: A New Frontier

19. How do I handle negative book reviews?

Handling book reviews is a skill. Critical reviews can disappoint the best of authors. With a few pointers, you can turn the bad reviews into one that you can use to your advantage.

20. What are the respected Indian Book Awards I can submit my book for?

Once the book is published, one of the next steps for many authors will be to submit the book for Author Awards. Receiving a book award is a gateway to instant recognition and a name for you and the book.

Quick Quiz – Test Your Book Publishing Knowledge

Think you’re ready to publish your book? Test your knowledge with this short quiz on self-publishing, eBooks, and book publishing in India

Q1. What is the biggest benefit of publishing an eBook?
a) High printing costs
b) Almost zero reproduction cost
c) Only works for international authors

Q2. If you are self-publishing in India, which of these is NOT required?
a) A literary agent
b) An ISBN (International Standard Book Number)
c) Copyright protection under the Indian Copyright Act

Q3. How long does standard self-publishing take in India (without editing)?
a) 1 week
b) 2–3 weeks
c) At least 6 months

Q4. Which publishing option gives you the most creative control over your book?
a) Traditional publishing
b) Hybrid publishing
c) Self-publishing

Q5. What is an ISBN used for in book publishing?
a) To track and sell books worldwide
b) To protect book copyright
c) To calculate royalty payments


Answer Key: Q1 → b | Q2 → a | Q3 → b | Q4 → c | Q5 → a

Closing Thoughts

Publishing a book in India doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right guidance, you can confidently choose between self-publishing and traditional publishing, estimate the cost of publishing a book, secure an ISBN and copyright, and even expand into eBook publishing, print-on-demand, or international distribution.

At Zorba Books, we’ve helped hundreds of debut authors and established writers successfully publish their work across India and abroad. Whether your goal is to publish a novel, poetry book, or regional language title, our step-by-step support makes the journey smoother.

Ready to take the next step in your publishing journey? Contact Zorba Books today and turn your manuscript into a professionally published book.


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