Which Type of Format Works Best? The E-book or Book?

This is something that most people can have a lovely discussion about: you’ve published your book, and now you have to make a few choices. Some of them are easy – and getting a book published does have its easy points.  Making money is also on your mind– or rather profits on that book., and then a bit more profits.

And then there is something most new authors don’t think about, at least I didn’t:  This is the format of your book.  By this I mean that you can not only release a paperback or a hardback book, but also an e-book.  All of these are important, but which format should you use?

There is a lot of choice. Formats come and go. E-books aren’t a fad, but they probably won’t replace physical books — at least not yet.

I personally think that you should give your readers a choice. Release the Kindle/Nook/other type of e-book and also give your readers a paperback option. 

Look at some of the more popular bestsellers — they have a lot of format choice out there.  You can read it on your e-reader, or your phone or listen to it on an audio device, and you can also hold a book in your hands.

The question becomes: Which one is best for you, or rather your published book?

I’m not suggesting that you won’t be a big time author, but is having a lot of formats good for you?  It could break your sales, or it could increase your sales.  I have a writing friend who is a die hard book reader.  She will not buy anything which is not in physical book format.

Another will buy only e-books; several of them since she has a nook, and a Kindle and an iPad.  I doubt she has bought a paper-type book in a long while.  Both are avid readers, and both have a a good idea what they enjoy reading.

I think the answer is give your readers the best choice you can possibly give them.  This is a great way to connect with your readers.