This is the temp cover for my new book Bigfoot Bill, which I'm launching through an Indiegogo campaign. I'm coming to comic fans to ask for tips on self-publishing a book. I've done 16 graphic novels through Image and Scholastic and I'm trying to see if the readers trust books that come directly from creators.

What % of your books do you get from comic stores vs. online?

Does the label "all ages" make you run away from a book because it seems like a kiddie book?

How much story arc would you expect from a first issue of 48-64 pages?

If you'd like to weigh in I'd love to hear your comments.

DougTenNapel marked this as the best answer

@dougtennapel: Those covers were money, man. I didn't know you did comics. I'm MosDef going to check some out.

As to your questions: I go to my LCS for ongoing issues and then rely on the web for the sundry things, especially indie since my part of Utah doesn't do too great in that arena.

"All ages" isn't a big deal to me, as I've got four kids and I am always looking for something I can share with them. And, if the book is good, who cares if it is all ages?

I never expect much arc from a first issue, but I like to at least get a good feel for the vibe of the book and an idea as to what to expect out of the story.

@dougtennapel: Wait, aren't you the guy that did all those FIF album covers?

@renchamp: Yes.

@dougtennapel: Huge fan of Earthworm Jim. I even own the old comics by Marvel.

First off, I’m sold on this already based on the art and the snappy word bubble use on the cover.

All ages are fine with me.

I try out lots of #1 indie books. I don’t stick with a lot of them, but I like to give them a shot. I don’t care so much for the amount of story in a #1, but more if I like the themes and tones, and art of course. If I do, I know the story comes with further issues. But 48-64 pages seems like it offers a lot of room to set up a nice story, or deliver a great one-shot.

And I read most of my comics digitally anymore. My wife will kill me if I start storing even MORE comics. Lol

You’ve got at least one guy who will buy #1. Good luck!

@tparks: Thanks for the info, TParks. This helps a lot. I've paced out the first book to have at least one story arc but it's mostly set up for the final book.