Michael McCandless

Michael McCandless self-published his first books in the transition period from analog-to-digital technology and from brick-and-mortar bookselling to e-commerce. Silicon Valley and nonprofit executive, entrepreneur, teacher, and author, Mike's experience includes production management with a major educational publisher, self-publishing in the early days of print-on-demand technology, and the creation in 2013 of independent publisher Touchwood Press.

Pioneering online bookselling before it became commonplace, Mike has published more than 50 books in nonfiction and fiction genres. He has built and managed publishing operations from both the institutional side and the independent author's perspective across periods of significant technological change: the digital revolution and now, the AI tsunami.

Since 2015, he has taught writing and publishing workshops for first-time authors, helping them understand not just how to publish a book, but how to take the many decisions that publishing involves.

His work helps new authors build skills confidently, maintain realistic expectations, and respect the creative process. The Publish It Yourself! Series reflects the approach he brings to the classroom: orientation first, tools second, confidence built on understanding, and encouragement to find writing fulfillment in a self-published book.