From Blog to Book

Almost three years ago today, I wrote the first blog post for "Chai on the Veranda." After weeks of researching, watching videos on blogging, and writing, I was ready to begin.

I wanted my grandchildren to know the culture, traditions, and celebrations of Hyderabad, the city where I grew up. About life in Dubai in the 1970s, our vacations, family recipes, and much more. Writing a blog is easier for me, the posts are short, and I can edit, rewrite, and publish them at my own pace without any pressure.

Now I am working on publishing my blog into a book. Self-publishing has become quite common with options to publish your book in different formats. However, I do not want to sell my book in print or digitally. I am looking forward to giving my book to family and friends.

Turning a blog into a book has several advantages. You already have the content and writing does not seem daunting anymore! All you need now is to refine your posts and modify them for printing into a book.

If you are keeping a journal or documenting your stories in text or pictures it is worthwhile to self-publish and preserve your memories. Give your book to your family or keep it on your bookshelf.

• Amazon’s KDP offers simple tools to self-publish your book in print and digital formats. They provide help with editing, formatting, layout, and cover design.

• Barnes & Noble Press also has easy-to-use tools to self-publish your book in print or e-book.

• PixxiBook prints your book directly from the website within minutes! I like this option but there are some drawbacks. You cannot change the layout of your posts without first making changes to your website.

• Local printers can also print memory books in hard and soft covers.

With several platforms offering publishing and printing options, I will have to make a decision soon. I will continue posting on my blog perhaps less frequently till my book materializes.

Thank you to my family and friends who wrote encouraging comments, you made my day every single time!