Introduction to Indie Publishing with Dr. Sharifah Akilah Trinay Parr
Dr. Sharifah Akilah Trinay Parr, founder of Revision Publishing and RP Books bookstore, is a dynamic force in independent publishing. From her roots as a high school English teacher to becoming an “accidental entrepreneur,” Akilah offers a fresh perspective on the publishing industry. Her journey reveals practical strategies for authors who want to maintain control over their work and successfully navigate the complex world of publishing and marketing.
The Hybrid Publishing Model: Empowering Authors
Unlike traditional publishers, Revision Publishing operates on a hybrid model where Akilah serves primarily as a consultant and accountability partner. She works closely with authors to create a personalized publishing plan that fits their goals and budgets. Instead of handling all services in-house, she helps authors select editors, designers, and other professionals, ensuring they understand the entire process including ownership of intellectual property.
Author-Publisher Model Reimagined
Akilah aims to cultivate “author-publishers” — individuals who build their own publishing imprints, giving them greater autonomy and ownership over their work. Currently, she publishes some clients under Revision Publishing but does not take any royalties, promoting transparent partnerships. This approach helps authors view publishing as building a business, making smart decisions about timelines, costs, and distribution.
Supporting Authors Every Step of the Way
Akilah’s engagement ranges from helping authors brainstorm manuscript ideas to aiding seasoned writers with marketing and distribution. She underscores the importance of professional editing and realistic timelines while offering hands-on guidance through every phase:
- Writing and manuscript development
- Production and formatting
- Publishing under authors’ own imprints
- Marketing and promotion strategies
She emphasizes the emotional and physical demands of publishing and serves as an accountability partner to help authors stay motivated and avoid common pitfalls.
From Publishing to Bookstore: RP Books
Expanding beyond consulting, Akilah opened RP Books in Pittsburgh, California, providing a physical platform for independent authors to showcase and sell their books. The bookstore creates opportunities for author events and local community engagement, helping authors gain visibility beyond online platforms like Amazon.
She advocates for diversifying distribution through platforms such as IngramSpark alongside Amazon, allowing better access to independent bookstores and local buyers. By curating events tailored to an author’s audience, the bookstore helps foster meaningful connections between writers and readers, which ultimately impacts sales.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Navigating Criticism
Akilah openly shares her experience with imposter syndrome, particularly the challenge of juggling multiple roles and shifting professional identities. Her advice for authors includes:
- Resting in your unique gifts and credentials
- Rejecting the need to fit into narrow boxes or labels
- Focusing on your actual target audience instead of seeking approval from everyone
- Learning from constructive criticism without becoming discouraged by negative reviews
She encourages creatives to “eat the meat and spit out the bones” when receiving feedback, using insights to improve without losing confidence.
The Importance of Community and Continued Learning
Being part of communities like the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association (BAIPA) has been invaluable for Akilah, providing connections with fellow authors and professionals who share resources and encouragement. She plans to expand her educational workshops through RP Books to equip more authors with knowledge about the publishing industry.
What’s Next for Akilah and Revision Publishing?
With the bookstore recently opened, Akilah focuses on building a calendar of author events and continuing to support her existing clients. She expects to grow her client base as she balances her multiple passions and businesses. Workshops and additional hybrid publishing offerings are also in the pipeline to further empower independent authors.
Connect with Dr. Sharifah Akilah Trinay Parr
- Revision Publishing Website
- Social Media: RP Books Bookstore and Revision Publishing LLC on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter)
Whether you are just starting your first manuscript or already a seasoned indie author, Akilah’s experience and approach offer invaluable lessons on owning your work, building community, and thriving in the independent publishing world.
Author
One of my favorite things about BAIPA is its culture of generosity, the willingness — even eagerness — to share what we have each learned in the process of bringing stories to life. We provide educational programs, networking, marketing opportunities, encouragement, and information on industry vendors and services. And lots of one-on-one advice and mentoring.
We welcome all who have an interest in making connections within the world of independent publishing and learning more about how to publish and sell their work successfully. Together we are raising the standard of independent publishing and helping our members thrive.
Do join us!
—Becky Parker Geist, BAIPA Board of Directors, President
Quick Resources
Current BAIPA members do not need to register for our monthly meetings. The night before the meetings, they will receive the Zoom info. For workshop registration, currently, members get in free for all workshops and will receive the Zoom info the night before the meetings, as well as in the confirmation email.