eBook Software Publishing [ Edited ]

[Patti58]

I'm currently using Microsoft Word to create my eBooks and have loaded them on Lulu, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  Clearly there are limitations in using this to self-publish but I don't know what else I can use.  I have some technical background, but I'm not a programmer.  What would you all suggest I consider to bring my work to the next level?  I see Adobe InDesign and others, but just don't know which is best AND not terribly difficult to learn.

 I currently have a PC, but my husband is looking to possibly buy me an Apple. 

Thanks for the help! 

Patti Graham

[Ken Anderson · Accepted solution]

Buy an Apple iMac and then use the Apple iBooks Author to create fantastic eBooks and upload direct to the iBookshop.

If you stick with the PC then go get Adobe InDesign CS5.5.
There's a bit of a learning curve but it's well worth the time, cost and effort.

Have a look at this tutorial first.
http://www.lulu.com/product/ebook/epubs-for-lulu-a-(idiots)-guide-to-creating-epubs/18781958 

[Patti58]

Thank you Ken.  My husband has mentioned that we should probably get an Apple.  Does it matter which one?  I was thinking an iPad and he was thinking the MacBook Air but you suggest the Apple iMac...

One more question Ken, I understand the Apple iMac (and hopefully other devices) can upload direct to iBookshop, but does it also work for eBooks I place on Amazon and Barnes & Noble?

As always Ken, I appreciate your help!

Patti Graham

[Ken Anderson]

Go for an iMac and you'll never look back. You could still produce books for Kindle and B&N but not at the moment with the iBooks Author itself.

[Patti58]

Did a little reading and I do wonder if at some point Apple will make changes and allow people to use iBook Author (which does look great by the way) on other devices.  Time will tell...

Thanks again Ken.

Patti Graham

[kevinlomas]

I doubt it, you know what they are like ...

[Patti58]

For those that have Apple, could I use Pages (instead of iAuthor) to create eBooks and be able to use that beyond iBookstore?

Thanks!

Patti Graham, Author

[kevinlomas]

You are asking that on Lulu?! :-)

[gshughs]

Yes, you can use Pages, but certain functionality won't work. Floating images/items are not supported in ePub export.

[gshughs]

Yes, see below