The Gentle Pen - Top Reasons Books Don't Get Published...

The Top Two Reasons People Don’t Publish Their Book—Which Roadblock Describes You?

Everyone has a story tucked away inside them. Some people dream of writing that novel, while others want to share their life lessons. Many parents and grandparents imagine writing a children’s book for the little ones they love. But here’s the truth: most of those books never make it past the dream stage.

Why? Two significant roadblocks stop almost every would-be author in their tracks.

Roadblock #1: “My Manuscript Is Written. What Do I Do Now?”

Writing the manuscript feels like the hard part—but it’s just the beginning. Once the words are down, there’s a whole new set of questions. Writing is one ball game, and publishing is an entirely different can of worms! Here are some of the questions you may have after writing your book:

• Who’s going to edit this?

• How do I design a cover that stands out?

• Where do I even print it?

• Do I need an e-book? An audiobook?

• And the big one—how will I sell this book?

It’s no wonder so many manuscripts stay in drawers or on laptops forever. The mountain seems too big to climb.

How to Overcome It: Break the process into steps. Publishing isn’t one giant leap—it’s a series of small, manageable moves. When I felt overwhelmed, I reminded myself that every professional book you see on a shelf was built the same way: step by step. And yes, I made it through that process—and so can you. (Proof? Please take a peek at the shelves of my books already out in the world!)

Roadblock #2: “I Just Can’t Do It”

This is the fear roadblock. You might be saying:

• “What if no one buys it?”

• “What if the critics come out?”

• “Who am I to think I can be an author?”

I get it. I had those same late-night doubts when I started. I have doubts often. Especially after days of haters and having to delete and block troubled individuals. But here’s the thing—your book doesn’t have to be perfect to matter. It just has to be real. My children’s books aren’t just stories; they’re conversations about diversity, courage, kindness, and family. They connect with kids because they’re heartfelt, not because they’re flawless.

How to Overcome It: Remember your why and who you are writing for? What do you hope they’ll feel when they turn the last page? Once I focused on the children who would be giggling, learning, and feeling seen in my stories, the fear started to fade. Remembering happy faces and kids' laughter when I read them a story makes up for all the haters, those kids make up for all the tough days, as well as the hours of work and painting that went into creating a book for them.

Other Roadblocks You Might Recognize:

• “Self-Publishing Costs More Than I Can Afford to Pay” – Costs can be real, but there are creative ways to budget.

• “I’m Just Too Busy” – Books don’t get written in one marathon weekend. They get written in pockets of time—a few pages before bed, a scene while waiting in the carpool line.

Here’s the Good News:

Publishing a book isn’t impossible. It’s one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever take. My 13 published children’s books are proof that those roadblocks don’t have to stop you. From Barrel Racer Hazel to I’m Not the Same as You, each book started with doubts, fears, and questions—just like yours. But now, they’re in the hands of readers, sparking conversations and creating memories.

And here’s the secret: the same can happen for you.

Just Do it!

Gently,

Liv McLean,

Author and Illustrator - www. livmclean.com