Self-publishing? Here’s Why You Need a Map

As an author diving into the self-publishing world, you’ve probably poured countless hours into crafting your story—building characters, developing plots, and constructing worlds that feel alive. But have you thought about how to show your readers the world you’ve created? That’s where a map comes in.

Maps make your world feel real. When readers open a book and find a map, they’re immediately transported. A map gives them a sense of scale, geography, and direction. It turns an imaginary land into a place they can see, trace, and understand.

They add depth to your story. A well-made map is more than lines and symbols—it’s an extension of your story. It can hint at untold tales, like abandoned ruins or mysterious forests. It can also showcase the relationships between locations, like how close rival kingdoms are or why trade routes pass through certain towns. A map doesn’t just tell your readers where things happen—it shows them why.

Readers love maps. Let’s face it: fantasy readers love maps. They’re the kind of people who’ll flip back and forth to trace the path of a character’s journey or guess where the next twist in the plot might lead. Adding a map to your book gives them another way to connect with your story.

It enhances the professional appeal of your book. In a competitive self-publishing market, presentation matters. A beautifully designed map enhances your story and it adds a polished, professional touch that sets your book apart. Readers associate maps with detailed world-building and immersive storytelling, and including one signals that your book is a labor of love, crafted with care and attention to detail. For many readers, a map is a sign of quality, showing them that they’re about to dive into something special.

Self-publishing gives you complete control over your book, but it also means you wear a lot of hats. Let me take one off your hands.

At Mae Maps Studio, I specialize in creating custom maps for authors like you—self-publishers who want to bring their worlds to life. With over five years of experience working with fantasy authors and game creators, I know how to turn your vision into a map that enhances your story.