This is the book on personal investments that I researched, wrote and self-published. I'm also distributing it on my own. It's been a learning experience bar none.
The Process
It took me around 3 months of research and writing to get the first draft out. Most of the research was done online followed by personal visits to banks, post offices, professors whenever I needed additional inputs or clarifications. Most of these visits were without appointments - wherein I would visit the concerned person posing as a customer and making the relevant queries. The moment you said that you were trying to get the information for a book, the responses and the reactions would vary. Some of the officers would get defensive thinking that I'm doing some sort of an undercover investigation and hesitate to give any information just in case it got them into trouble. So I had to give them my visiting card and show them the draft of my book to show that I didn't take names and that the book was purely for education purposes. After that, they were more than kind with the information I wanted.
Once the draft was ready, I got it reviewed by people in the field of investments. The reviewers included professionals in the industry, professors, CAs, etc.
The Toughest Part
But by far the toughest part was to proof-read each and every word and punctuation in the book. In the beginning it seemed a simple task - but it threatened to become a never-ending task. I had done my share of proof-reading as a copywriter, but this really, really tried my patience.
Eventually, I can say it with some pride, that the book has come out well. A lot of the praise does go to my editor - Ms. Hasmita Chander and to Sachin Parab my friend who did the layout for the pages and the cover.
Next Step
Now, I can't wait to write another book. I have so many ideas I just hope I am fortunate enough to make them a reality.
And to all those who are thinking of writing a book but are stuck for one reason or another - you can get in touch with me. I'll be more than glad to share anything that can help to make it a reality.