How a Kolkata Historian Reached National Readers Through Estorytellers

Client Background

A Kolkata-based historian wrote a 65,000-word nonfiction book on old Calcutta’s forgotten neighborhoods. His draft was rich in research, but he lacked a strong publishing plan and professional production support.

Challenges

• Dense manuscript that needed clarity for general readers.

• Zero knowledge of ISBN, pricing, and distribution.

• Goal to reach readers in cities beyond Kolkata.

Estorytellers’ Approach

1. Deep Development Editing

Our editors refined the structure while keeping every fact accurate. We helped him shorten chapters, improve readability, and build smooth chapter transitions.

2. Cover and Interior Design

Estorytellers designed a heritage-styled cover inspired by North Kolkata streets. The interior layout carried subtle motifs to match his theme.

3. Publishing Setup

We handled the ISBN, MRP planning, print options, and metadata optimisation for online stores.

4. Distribution Strategy

We released the book on Amazon, Flipkart, Kindle, and partnered with two Kolkata independent bookstores for initial visibility.

Results

• 1,000 copies sold in 90 days.

• 60 percent of sales came from outside West Bengal, including Delhi, Pune, and Hyderabad.

• Kindle edition ranked in the top 20 under “Indian History” for 11 days.

• The author received invites for 3 heritage walks and 2 college talks.