Would a Collection of Very Short Stories Be a Good Concept to Publish on Direct to Kindle?

Direct to Kindle, also known as Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), is a platform designed to help authors self-publish their works. However, publishing a collection of very short stories, each ranging from 1200 to 2000 words, on Direct to Kindle may not be the best strategy due to several reasons. In this guide, we will explore why this approach might be challenging and offer alternative strategies that can help you succeed.

The Challenges of Publishing Very Short Stories on Direct to Kindle

The concept of publishing a collection of very short stories might seem appealing, especially if you have refined ten experimental pieces. However, the market for short stories can be difficult, particularly for first-time authors. According to data and insights from experienced authors, collections of short stories sell less well than even memoirs. A collection of ten 2000-word stories would result in a total length of around 20,000 words, which is still considered quite short in the literary world.

Firstly, readers are more likely to judge a book based on its cover and the quality of the first few stories. If these initial pieces do not engage the reader, they might not proceed to read the rest of the collection. Additionally, pricing a short story collection can be a challenge, as authors often struggle to differentiate between deeply discounted eBooks and full-length novels. Furthermore, the promotional efforts required to generate pre-orders for such a short collection can be substantial, and the results may not be promising.

Alternative Strategies

Instead of opting for direct publishing, consider the following strategies:

1. Anthology Releases

One effective approach is to combine your stories into an anthology and release it as a single volume. While a collection of 15 to 20 thousand words may still be considered short, it can be more marketable as a complete narrative. Make sure the stories are in a logical order, and the first few pieces are compelling enough to hook the reader. Structuring the collection thoughtfully can increase the chances of the entire volume being read.

2. Longer Short Stories or Novelettes

Consider expanding some of your stories into novelettes or novellas. This can provide you with a balance between the depth of a full-length novel and the time investment required for a long-form story. Additionally, you can compile other longer stories alongside your experimental pieces to create a more substantial collection.

3. Free Content on a Blog or Website

Another option is to make these very short stories available for free on a personal blog or website. This can serve as a way to promote your other writing, including any longer works you may have. By offering free content, you can create a following and build your reputation as an author before releasing your work onDirect to Kindle or other platforms.

Final Thoughts and Best Practices

While the Direct to Kindle platform can be a valuable tool, it is essential to understand the market dynamics and audience expectations. By following these recommendations, you can increase your chances of success:

Pre-order Promotion: Use social media and other marketing channels to generate pre-orders and create buzz around your publication. Pricing Strategy: Use competitive pricing but ensure your work is differentiated from other similar products. Use High-Quality Cover Art: Utilize free images from museums or creative commons to create an attractive and professional-looking cover. Promote Proofreading: Always proofread your work, either through professional services or by using tools like Canva for image manipulation. Tap into Short Story Communities: Use platforms like The Submission Grinder to connect with other short story authors and gain valuable insights.

In conclusion, while the concept of a short story collection can be appealing, it requires careful consideration and strategic planning. By understanding the market and implementing effective promotional and publishing strategies, you can increase the chances of your work being discovered and appreciated by readers.