It is a truth universally acknowledged that a writer in possession of some time and an idea needs nothing more urgently than motivation. Now, if you'll forgive me for adapting this Jane Austen quote to the circumstances, let me explain my thought: You can have both a breakthrough idea and all the time in the world - only it's of little use if motivation is lacking. If that's there, too, however, questions might arise that can be a bit overwhelming, especially for new writers. This guide is intended to shed the necessary light on the subject, so that even you, as a non-specialist author, can understand what it means to write and publish a book. It must be said that a manuscript can be finished without even thinking about publication. Sounds strange, doesn't it?