Simply put, a book editor is an expert who improves your book by rearranging it, eliminating sections and suggesting others be added, sharpening the language and correcting errors. Book editors also purchase books for publishing houses and oversee their development. However, a single individual doesn’t do all of these things. Instead, there are different types of book editors, each of which perform a specialized function. They include:
- Acquisitions editor – This employee of a publishing firm reviews book proposals and decides which will be passed on to the publisher or editorial board for possible purchase. An acquisitions editor may also “scout” for new projects or authors.
- Sponsoring editor – Also an employee of a publishing firm, this editor is responsible for shepherding the book through the writing and publication process. The sponsoring editor will review the manuscript, edit it, discuss changes with the author, and coordinate with the publisher’s production and marketing departments as the manuscript is turned into a book and sold to the public. A sponsoring editor may also function as an acquisitions editor.
- Developmental editor – This type of editor carefully reads the manuscript looking for “large” problems such as poorly-reasoned arguments, jumps in the storyline, weak character development and missing information, and makes suggestions accordingly. The sponsoring editor at a publishing firm may also function as a developmental editor, or a freelance developmental editor may be hired by the publisher or by the author himself.
- Copy editor – The copy editor checks the manuscript for spelling, grammar, sentence structure and other problems. Copy editors also make sure that style and information remain consistent throughout the entire manuscript (ensuring, for example, that you always either use either “U.S.” or “United States,” but don’t mix them and that your character Kristen’s favorite necklace isn’t made of diamonds on page 15 and sapphires on page 231). The copy editor may work for the publisher, or be a freelancer hired by the publisher or the author.
We at Taylor-Fox can help you create your autobiography, memoir, inspirational book or other book and get it ready for publication. We’ve helped scores of people achieve their goals, and some of their books have landed on bestseller lists. Call us at 818-594-0379.
Nadine Taylor and Barry Fox write, ghostwrite, rewrite and edit books in many genres, including health, business, inspiration/ spirituality and memoirs. Their resume is long and varied but there’s one thing that never changes: They love to work with words, creating books that are clear, compelling and pleasurable to read. If you’re interested in writing a book, editing a book and/or publishing a book, you’ve come to the right place!
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