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I have started a publishing label together with a few colleagues of mine, and used KDP for the first book. It worked well, and has sold about a thousand copies. The next book up is the first in a series that is designed with a very particular format and look in mind, but KDP doesn't handle the size we are considering (A6).
My question is: should I concede to the KDP requirements so that I can access Kindle and distribute all from one place (Amazon)? Or should I stick to my guns, go with the pocket-size using a different printer, and try to figure out how to distribute and market anew?
If the latter, are there in-built distribution networks in publishing that I need to know about? Or is it a matter of sucking it up and putting in the legwork?
Personally, I'd be sticking with what you know (your first book sold well so why change things). Is the A6 thing just for aesthetic reasons or is there some other reason behind it? It seems very small for a book format.
Sorry, how does physical size affect Kindle editions?
It doesn't, but confusingly Kindle (KDP) is also the name of Amazon's physical book self-publishing service!Sorry, how does physical size affect Kindle editions?
My question is: should I concede to the KDP requirements so that I can access Kindle and distribute all from one place (Amazon)?
Yes unless the value of having it A6-sized is greater than the costs associated with using a different platform.
There's probably a very good reason why KDP doesn't do A6.
To me it would depend on the book and its target audience. e.g. if you planned to sell a mini book of tide tables in a "handbag" or "pocket" size through harbour masters, newsagents, etc then clearly the size and format are important but the on-line sales and in particular e-book sales are probably not. Similarly, if you had a little set of walking guidebooks etc, although on-line sales through Amazon might be more important there. If its the sort of book someone reads from start to finish (novel, self help etc) then I think Kindle is an important format and you'd be crazy not to have that. Even recipe books seem to be quite common on kindle, and having all of a set of 10 reference books on a little electronic device could be handy for various technical things.  Whilst I hate Amazon, if I want a book its still the first place I look and occasionally I have a niche book thats not available there and other online facilities seem to be set up to frustrate you (postage costs, creating accounts, delivery times, etc). BUT if your book is the "Hippies' guide to knitting your own yoghurt" then an anti-amazon solution will help not hinder sales.
Basically - you need to understand your market.