5 Self-Published Writers to Follow on Twitter

Self-publishing might make the definition of "writer" rather murky, but it has undoubtedly leveled the playing field, letting people build up a reader base from scratch — and get paid for it.

Even sharp writing on Twitter and Reddit can draw in readers. Below, we compiled a list of five writers who have mastered the art.

1. E.L. James

I'm delighted & thrilled to let you guys know that Sam Taylor-Johnson has agreed to direct the film of Fifty Shades of Grey.

— E L James (@E_L_James) June 19, 2013

The power of fan fiction is turning publishing on its head. The trilogy sold approximately 250,000 copies as an e-book before it was snatched up by Random House and sold over 65 million copies. Now, the British-born James has a few bestsellers under her belt — along with a cultural phenomenon and an upcoming Hollywood film.