The ISBN Lesson I Learned the Hard Way
If you read my first post, you know I jumped into being an indie author without a clue about anything.
I had no idea about ISBNs or how to format a physical book, let alone an eBook version. I just had an idea, and I was determined to make it happen. But trust me—if you’re thinking about publishing, hear me out.
What is an ISBN?
You could look it up, but here’s the scoop: an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit code that identifies a book. It helps libraries, bookstores, and readers track down the exact version they’re after.
Think of it like a social security number for each edition of a book, whether it’s published traditionally or independently.
Self-Publishing Platforms
Many self-publishing platforms like Amazon KDP and Barnes & Noble Press offer free ISBNs, and if you haven’t fully researched the importance of owning your own, it can seem appealing—especially if you’re on a budget, as I was.
But if you want full control and access to more opportunities, don’t be tempted by the free ISBNs.
My Mistake
My biggest mistake was not buying my own ISBNs. I thought I understood what they were and believed that using the free ones from each self-publishing platform would be a great way to share my work and maybe earn a bit of extra money.
Later, after publishing, I realized I had almost scattered the same book across multiple ISBNs. To readers it might not matter much, but to retailers, libraries, and distribution systems, it can create confusion fast.
Now I’m stuck wondering: what do I do after using a free ISBN through Amazon KDP?
Where Now?
Mistakes happen, and there’s always a learning curve—especially when you’re a one-person operation figuring things out on your own. Hopefully, this reaches you before you make the same misstep I did.
The good news is, it’s an easy fix.
First, purchase your own ISBNs through Bowker. Buy 10 for about $300—you’ll need one for each version of your book. For example, a paperback and a hardcover each require their own ISBN.
eBooks typically don’t, though requirements can vary. With your ISBNs, you can publish on multiple platforms, making it easier for you—and others looking to stock books—to track your work.
And here’s a bonus: ISBNs never expire, so any extras will be ready and waiting for your next project.
Secondly, don’t panic if you made the same mistake I did. One thing I’m going to have to do is re-release When No One Was Listening. The perfectionist in me still struggles with it being labeled as a second edition on Amazon, whereas everywhere else it’ll be a first edition.
At the end of the day, it still can be fixed, and I will still have more control of where I can showcase my work.
Take-Away
The main takeaway? If you’re serious about publishing long-term, owning your ISBNs gives you more control over your work, your branding, and where your books can go.
Helpful Resources
Bowker — Official U.S. ISBN Agency Purchase your own ISBNs and learn more about how they work.
Bowker MyIdentifiers Store Direct link to buy ISBNs, barcodes, and manage your publishing information.
Amazon KDP — What is an ISBN? Amazon’s explanation of ISBNs, formats, and imprint information.
Amazon KDP — Using Your Own ISBN Helpful if you’re switching from a free KDP ISBN to your own.
KDP Help Center General publishing help and troubleshooting for Kindle Direct Publishing.
