Hi probonopublic,
Thanks for your question!
In publishing an ebook, you have several options available. Your
biggest decision will be whether to use an HTML or PDF-based ebook
publishing tool.
The biggest selling point for HTML ebook generators, more commonly
known as compilers, is their multimedia/internet compatibility, which
allows you to include features like video, forms, gifs, and sound in
your ebooks. Since an HTML-based ebook is simply a series of web pages
compiled into a .exe file, all properties of the pages themselves are
preserved.
On the flip side, many ebook self-publishers choose to go with
PDF-format ebooks for one simple reason - unlike HTML ebooks, PDF
format is universally compatible with all operating systems (Mac, PC,
Unix, etc.) If you're planning to market your ebook commercially, you
may want to keep this in mind.
Should you decide to go with an HTML ebook generator, here are several
recommendations to consider:
- Boogie Jack ( http://boogiejack.com/review008.html ) recommends
eBook Generator
- eBook Crossroads ( http://www.ebookcrossroads.com ) highly
recommends Activ EBook Compiler. It's on the lower end of the pricing
spectrum at about $30 US but still contains many features.
- Prolific ebook author Elke Roland recommends eBook Edit Pro, E-Ditor
and Activ EBook, in that order (
http://www.elkes-ebook-shop.com/ebook_compilers.htm ).
Briefly, here are some characteristics of the two formats:
HTML ebooks
- Can be distributed on CD-Rom or by Internet download
- Interactive with the Internet
- Commercial software priced at $30 (US) and up
- A wide variety of easy-to-use ebook compilers to choose from
- Only compatible with Windows/PC environment
- Require minimum Internet Explorer 4.0
- Good for smaller projects like brochures, manuals, etc.
PDF ebooks
- Universal format
- PDF preserves your original fonts, links, and images regardless of
what application you used to create the document
- PDF files are compact in size
- PDF ebooks can be distributed as email attachments, in print, by
download or on CD-ROM
- Commercial software runs over $200
- User must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (free) installed
- Best for large projects - easier to publish a huge text document
directly to PDF than to create dozens of web pages
- Many online ebook bookstores/retailers will only accept PDF format
ebooks
Your decision, as you can see, ultimately depends on your needs and
goals -will you be selling your ebook commercially? Is this a small or
large document?
In the above information, you'll note the disparity between the prices
for HTML and PDF conversion software. However, if budget is an issue,
don't despair - some version of HTML and PDF publishers are available
online for free, and that's a price you can't beat. While these
generally have less features and are a bit more awkward to use than
commercial products, if your project isn't too fancy freeware
compilers might suffice.
Here are some sites to consult:
eBook Search Engine: Free (HTML) EBook Compilers
< http://tinyurl.com/ifrc >
Free eBook Compilers
< http://www.ebookcrossroads.com/ebook-compilers.html >
(see sidebar at right)
goBCL: Free Online Document Publishing
< http://www.gohtm.com/what_is.htm >
Gymnast: Free PDF Converter
< http://www.oakworth.demon.co.uk/gymnast.htm >
PDFcamp Pro Free Download
< http://www.visual-mp3.com/review/3055.html >
Converts text files to PDF via email or through your web browser
Some extracurricular reading for you:
EBook Publishing Series by Shelley Lowery (includes comprehensive
advantages/disadvantages of HTML/PDF formats)
< http://www.web-source.net/ebook_publishing1.htm >
eBook Software for MAC (list on right sidebar)
< http://www.ebookcrossroads.com/ebook-compilers.html >
You may also wish to check out an ebook-related question I answers
some weeks ago: < http://answers.google.com/answers/main?cmd=threadview&id=226167
>
I used the following searches to find your answer:
ebook creators
ebook generators
e book ebook publishers
ebook compilers
best free ebook software
ebook publishing options
I hope this information is to your satisfaction. If you'd like further
clarification/elaboration, please let me know!
All the best,
Emjay-ga |
,
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