Akshaya Sutrave
Akshaya Sutrave asked Rick Riordan:

Hi Mr Riordan! What do you think about self published books in general, or based on their quality and reach? (I was curious because I'm a self published teen author trying to get into the mainstream publishing business and it would mean a lot to me if you answered my question. I'm a huge fan! :))

Rick Riordan I don't know a great deal about self-publishing, but certainly it is more popular, easier to do, and taken more seriously than it was when I was young. I imagine the quality varies widely, just as it does with traditionally published books. I am not sure I've ever read any self-published work, to be honest, but I am aware of several authors who started with self-publishing and went on to successful writing careers, so I know it can be done, and it can be good experience to build your skills. My advice would be the same, really, no matter what kind of publishing you want to do: keep practicing, keep writing, read a lot, and don't give up. Those are the only ingredients I know of to becoming a successful writer and finding an audience. Good luck! Lots more tips can be found on my website, rickriordan.com.

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