Veteran author’s self-publishing venture draws mixed reaction from literary agents, authors and retailers

Jerry B. Jenkins, co-author of the “Left Behind” series, which has sold more than 63 million copies, has launched a custom publishing house called Christian Writers Guild Publishing (CWGP). 

Owner of the Christian Writers Guild, Jenkins has been against self-publishing in general, but he recently had a change of heart. 

He said CWGP, launched in January, will be different from other custom publishing houses in that it features “Published,” a six-month course whereby the new author is mentored by an experienced author. 

When students with works-in-progress complete the course, CWGP will publish their books, providing a copy editor, proofreader, cover and type designer, e-book formatter, printer, a package of promotion, and marketing and social media materials.

“This is different from self-publishing,” said Jenkins, who has written more than 180 books. “It’s mentored, coached and educated publishing. We come alongside through this course and surround them with seasoned industry professionals.”

“I’ve criticized self-publishing because so many end up with schlocky covers, typos and poor production quality,” he added. “CWGP is committed to providing writers with a valuable education and a great publishing experience.”

CWGP, though, drew mixed reaction from industry observers.

“This is a logical next step for the training and editorial services that the guild provides,” literary agent Steve Laube told Christian Retailing. “Writers are already spending a lot of time and resources taking guild courses and working with a guild mentor. Why not give that writer an option within an organization they already know and trust?”

However, author C.S. Lakin said she was leery of the new publishing venture.

“Since I make my living as a full-time professional writing coach, critiquer and editor, it seems to me and other editors that it’s way too expensive,” she said. “I help authors get published or self-publish for way less. I am wondering, too, how much say the author has in selecting a person to work with them and critique their work. So far that’s been the reaction across the board—good idea, but way too pricey.”

Karen Grosse, owner of Lighthouse Christian Books in Green Bay, Wis., said CWGP is a good idea.

“From past experience, I know we have quite a few local authors in our area and we have had book signings with them,” she said. “Their books sell, but they need a platform, and it sometimes helps knowing where and how to publish. It would be helpful for the authors and the stores if Jerry can work with both. 

“It would also be good if he could have a brochure available at stores about the service, and be up front about the costs,” she added. “Some of our local authors have paid more than they can afford to get a book published.”

Lorraine Valk, co-owner of Parable Christian Store of St. Joseph in St. Joseph, Mich., agreed.

“I have seen too many local authors self-publish and use their life savings to print books that are not ready to be published,” she said. “They need the fine-tuning, proofreading and cover art that will really make their works shine. Unknown authors have a better chance at being discovered by mainstream publishers if their books are edited and proofread first. If there were generous return privileges from Christian Writers Guild Publishing, I would stock some of these selections. If they are not returnable, I might not invest too deeply because of the risk in today’s tenuous market.”

Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., the guild has trained aspiring writers for more than 40 years by offering writing courses, with each student mentored by a published author. 

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