thank you.

I realize this is only peripheral to the larger issue of textbook publishers’ lack of business acumen, but it reminds me of all I’ve observed and scratched my head at in almost 15 years of freelancing as a book designer and layout artist.

Just a few examples … I’ve done books for a small religious press, a non-profit, that paid a certain figure five years ago. The other day, a textbook publisher in New York–one with a whole catalog of books under its belt–offered me the same amount, on a three-book trial basis–but also wanted me to create a new template or adapt an old one, as part of that price. Does it make sense that the non-profit, a publisher with a mission that’s clearly not making money, would offer the same amount?

A small press that has sent me seven books to do straight layout on in the last year pays a tad more than both the aforementioned publishers. How to see some kind of rule to be guided by in approaching different publishers? Interesting and frustrating.

You’ve a thoughtful, idea-provoking blog that I’d like to link to. I’d be appreciative if you’d have a look at mine and it worked out that you thought it worth linking to in turn.