Passionate Writer Publishing

Working with an Editor

As writers, we eventually find ourselves at themercy of an editor. Sure, we’ve had people read our books and stories and offeradvice and criticism, and even praise. Then the time comes when we putourselves out there and have our work raked over by a professional who has seenand read it all. Panic!

The truth is that your editor wants to make yourbook the best and most marketable and readable it can be. Editors spendcountless hours on your book, looking at it with both a fresh eye and aseasoned mind. An editor doesn’t just fall into the job, she works hard to getwhere she is and loves her work. Most likely after a long day of editing, shegoes home and snuggles up on the couch with yet another book, just for fun.

When your editor makes suggestions, you may feel theinstant urge to protect your baby. Consider carefully all that your editor hasto offer in terms of making your book better. Read over suggestions severaltimes and see how they may fit your book. If you do not see eye to eye withsome of the ideas your editor offers, then explain why completely to youreditor. Your editor will listen. She will consider, too. She is almost asinvested in your book as you are.

When it comes to line editing, an editor will makechanges to the way you write. At first, this may seem invasive. Read throughthe changes, let them sit for a day or two, then compare the changes to yourold manuscript. You will probably be surprised at how well your editor hassmoothed over rough wording and passages. Your editor is not changing yourstyle. She is enhancing it with gobs of experience at what makes prose flow.

Most of all, don’t be afraid to communicate withyour editor. Always be polite and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Youreditor is there to make your story better.

Lisa Rusczyk