Self-Publishing 101: Take Control of Your Books, Business, and Future

Ariane and Todd Erickson spent years as “pre-published” children’s book authors in the mid-2000s, pursuing the traditional path to publication. After stepping away to raise their family, they returned to writing to find that self-publishing had evolved dramatically. Energized by this shift and eager to accelerate their publishing goals, they founded Norse-Gael Books and released their first picture book, BAXTER AND JEFFREY, in January 2024. They have since published two additional books, with a fourth scheduled for release in October 2026. As CEO of Norse-Gael Books, Ariane oversees every aspect of creating high-quality hardcover children’s picture books that stand proudly alongside traditionally published titles in bookstores, libraries, and on children’s shelves. She developed her expertise through courses, industry organizations, conferences, and “learning by doing.” She finds the entire process of self-publishing, from writing and collaborating with illustrators to storyboarding and building a brand, equal parts exhilarating, challenging, and deeply rewarding.