Your stop for book editing and publishing success.
Book Editing:
5 Things An Ethical Book Editor Will Never Say
By Lori Lisi
- “You must use an editor to get your manuscript ready.” Although a good editor can often increase your chances of publication by helping you to present the most professional manuscript possible, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be good enough without one. Many in the publishing industry are relying more and more upon independent editors to condition manuscripts and help educate writers, but it doesn’t mean that you cannot succeed without one.
- They claim that an editor doesn’t have “time” to do more than edit books or write submission materials. Doesn’t have time or doesn’t know any more about the publishing industry than this? The situation may be just fine if they aren’t knowledgeable about the industry beyond these services, because they could still be a valid source for those skills they do possess—even though it would be ideal for them to have a greater perspective of the publishing industry. However, ethical editors (who are honest with you and themselves) will detail the skills they are proficient in and acknowledge the areas where they are uneducated—then hopefully refer you to someone who knows about the areas for which you are seeking assistance.
- “Publishers won’t even look at a manuscript that hasn’t been professionally edited.” Not only does it imply that your manuscript won’t be good enough without his or her services, but it also says that you won’t even be considered if you haven’t used any professional editor at all—as if it is an industry requirement. While it is very true that much downsizing over the last several decades has dramatically reduced the amount of editing involvement publishing companies typically spend on the average book, it doesn’t mean that they require you to have your book edited before they’ll even talk to you. Getting your book edited should help you to give a better impression, but it isn’t a standard requirement by agents or publishers.
- They claim that literary agent research is unethical for an editor to do. It is questionable for an agent to perform any service for a fee. For this reason, the Author Association of Representatives will not allow an agent to be a member if he or she charges for certain literary services. However, regarding the question on how to find an agent, the AAR’s website states, “You may also ask for recommendations from editors, writing instructors, or fellow writers.” If potential editors state that it is unethical for an editor to research literary agents for an author, they are either unaware of the methods to evaluate agents or inexperienced about the dynamics in the publishing industry.
- “You’ll be accepted by an agent or publisher after using my services.” Even the most accomplished editors can’t polish a bad manuscript enough to turn it into a good one. But hopefully, they will give you an honest opinion, in the kindest way if needed. I hope you would prefer to work with an editor who will give you a truthful assessment rather than polish your pride. A superficially inflated ego won’t get you published or make you a better writer.
For more help on how to find the right editor for you, check out information found in our report about this topic:
The Serious Writer's Report #1: How to Find the Right Editor for You.
Direct any requests for reprint rights of this article to the Contact Page.
Free Proposal Consultation or Sample Edit
After reading the articles (or even before, if you'd like), I'd be happy to provide you with a free initial consultation or provide a sample edit for a manuscript. To set up either, simply:
- Fill out the Contact Form to request a phone appointment (from Lori Lisi).
- Include the status of your manuscript and any submission materials.
- Include several possible time frames to set up a phone appointment.
- If you have a draft of your proposal and/or the first two chapters of your manuscript, please upload that into the form as well.
You will be contacted within 24 to 72 hours. This will allow me the time to review the materials and information you might send before we set up the phone appointment. Please be sure to include times you might be available to set up the appointment.
I'll look forward to speaking with you!
Book Proposal Services
If you prefer that I write the book proposal for you, please review the Writing service.
If you would like to write the book proposal yourself and primarily want guidance for doing so, please review the Coaching service.
If you already have a book proposal and would like a critique of it, please review the Critiquing service.
Manuscript Services
If you would like general feedback regarding your manuscript, please check out the Book Critique service.
If your manuscript would be better served by an edit, check out the Book Editing service.
If you are uncertain as to the type of assistance your manuscript might need, simply request a Free Sample Edit for an initial assessment of the editing level that might be needed.
Literary Agents and Query Letters Services
Do you have your manuscript and/or book proposal ready and need to know what to do next? We research literary agents and write query letters specific to your project. See our Literary Agents Research and Query Letters services.
Find Literary Agents and Book Publishers at BookExpo America
Have you written a novel and want to appeal directly to a publisher? Or do you have a nonfiction book or proposal that you want a publisher to see?
Or do you have the book already published and are looking for media contacts? Ask us about BookExpo America Representation. It's the largest trade show for the publishing industry in the United States.
Over 2000 publishers are typically present. Next date is May 29 in Los Angeles.
|
