Abstract: A system and method for self-publishing includes components reflecting an author's intent with respect to other contributors and readers. Embodiments may include an object model which manages permissions to permit contributors to contribute content and services to the book to replace aspects of the traditional publishing process, and to offer new opportunities for republishing a book. A book may be an electronic book comprising context associated with a focus in the book which is reflected in schema underlying the book. Content may be added by contributors, and different versions of the book may be published with the new content. Ratings and other business intelligence may be provided to the original author to aid selection of contributors and content. A resulting book may be published electronically or as a hard copy.