Putting Out The Paper
A Novel by Allan R. Talbot
2022
In 2022, I collaborated with Allan R. Talbot, New York–based urban planner and author, to design and assist in the self-publishing of his first fiction novel, Putting Out The Paper.
Allan R. Talbot is the author of several nonfiction titles, including Power Along the Hudson: The Storm King Case and the Birth of Environmentalism (Dutton, 1972), Settling Things: Six Case Studies in Environmental Mediation (Ford Foundation, 1983), and the photo book New York in the Sixties (Dover Publications, 2014).
For his first novel, Talbot chose the self-publishing route to retain full creative control over design, production, and distribution. My role was to guide him through each stage—from concept to global release—ensuring that his transition from academic publishing to fiction was both smooth and professional.
Services provided
- Cover Design
- Print and Digital Edition Design
- Copyright and Registration
- Global Online Distribution
Challenge
Transitioning from traditional publishing to self-publishing required balancing literary professionalism with creative autonomy. The project demanded careful attention to design quality, editorial accuracy, and technical standards for both print and digital editions across multiple international platforms.
Solution
I provided end-to-end publishing support, including:
Designing the book’s cover and interior layout for both print and e-book editions.
Managing copyright registration and ISBN assignments.
Overseeing the distribution process through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and affiliated global networks in the U.S., U.K., Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
Ensuring compatibility with digital reading formats and print-on-demand specifications.
The final publication reflected Talbot’s narrative voice and maintained high production values consistent with professional publishing standards.
Results
- Successfully launched Putting Out The Paper across major global online retailers.
- Delivered cohesive print and digital editions optimized for readability and discoverability.
- Supported the author’s transition from traditional publishing to independent authorship.
- Expanded his readership across multiple English-speaking markets.