Publishing--Suggestions and Experience

[eschator83]

I pray for comments from anyone with general or specific suggestions about issues to consider by an author trying to find nerve to publish their first book (I have three that I have mostly finished, about as far as I think I can, and I have several others started--wondering which one(s) might have the best chance to find readership, and a reasonable, helpful publisher.)

My three wonderful kids chipped in for a birthday present a couple years ago--a weekend seminar on how to get published--but it mostly discussed media and popular fiction. I guess I wound up more timid rather than more confident, although I feel a strong obligation to jump in for my kids as well as myself, and hopefully, at least a few readers. I'm getting contacts from several publishers who want $1000 to $5000+?

Would you please share comments, especially on finding good publishers and self-publishing options and experience?