BUILDING YOUR BOOK: the process: Lots of invisible steps bridge the gap between your manuscript and its appearance as a book. Writing the words is your problem; the intricacies of postscript fonts, pdf files, pre-flighting, image management, layout, and high-quality pots of coffee are our problem. We manage these to reduce costs. Here are a few of the basic steps that the manuscript passes through:
  • Review of manuscript to determine a layout and design that reflect its content
    NOTE: We do not use "templates" for producing books. Although economical, they can awkwardly separate the physical book from its author's intent, voice, and vision. Good design reflects the idiosyncrasies of the text.
  • Cover design and image purchase

  • ISBN number and Library of Congress cataloging
    NOTE: THE ISBN number validates your work and makes it more useful to retailers.
  • Placement of files into layout program to produce an error-free pdf file for either a straight-to-plate print process OR to the new small-run print technologies

  • Posting of the galley on www.portofsaints.com/yourname.pdf for your approval

  • Management of printer relations, pricing, etc.

  • Delivery of the books to your address.

  • Posting of the PDF file to our web site so that others can sample your work.

  • Inclusion of an online ordering form so that anyone can contact you for a copy of the book.