Being in the book business, I get asked about self-publishing. I don't think much of it, from what I have read first-hand. I've read a lot of halfway decent self-published things that might have been really wonderful with some guidance.

I tell people great books aren't born, they are edited into existence. I suppose I should go further and clarify that editors are essential. Sure, you can let a few friends read and comment, even proofread it for you, but that isn't enough. Even with all my experience with books, I could only read a manuscript and tell you what is wrong with it, but I'm not sure I could give enough advice on how to make it right.