Editorial Assessments

Advice for Authors on When to Hire an Editor

Beth Kallman Werner — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:05:35 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Beth Kallman Werner on 4/17/2025 12:05:35 PM

Authors can hire a professional book editor at any point in their writing and publishing journey, but editor and Author Connections President Beth Kallman Werner recommends being strategic about when they hire. The more self-editing and polishing you can do before bringing in an editor, the better off you'll be, she says. Taking your book as far as you can will save you time, money, and creative control in the long run.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../AdviceforAuthorsonWhentoHireanEditor.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Cost of Hiring an Editor and Other Considerations

Beth Kallman Werner — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:04:35 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Beth Kallman Werner on 4/17/2025 12:04:35 PM

When hiring a professional book editor to review your work, it's important to know that book editors can charge in different ways. Editor and book marketing advisor Beth Kallman Werner of Author Connections charges by the page, while some editors may charge by the word or by the hour. She discusses why she charges this way, where authors can find book editing cost estimates, and other important considerations when hiring an editor.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheCostofHiringanEditorandOtherConsiderations.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Behind the Scenes of Editing a Book

Marysue Rucci — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:50:48 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Marysue Rucci on 9/23/2024 12:50:48 PM

How does a book get edited? Laura Dave, author of the forthcoming The Night We Lost Him, discusses the editing process with her editor, Marysue Rucci. Mayrsue Rucci shares the steps in her process, and how she gets into the right mindset when editing a book.

For more on Marysue Rucci's editing work, visit https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Night-We-Lost-Him/Laura-Dave/9781668002933.

www.youtube.com/watch

Tags: fiction, thriller, video, & suspense, mystery, Women's Fiction

Enhancing Your Nonfiction Book with Editorial Boards

Cathy Fyock — Thu, 30 May 2024 20:12:18 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Cathy Fyock on 5/30/2024 8:12:18 PM

Have you just completed the first draft of your nonfiction book and are wondering what comes next?

Before taking the leap to professional editing, consider leveraging the power of an editorial board for a crucial peer review process. This step is essential for assessing your book's usefulness, readability, and overall accessibility to your intended audience. An editorial board can offer critical insights on clarity, flow, and content coverage, ensuring your book truly resonates with readers.

Join us for an enlightening recorded webinar led by author and book coach, Cathy Fyock, who will guide you through the process of selecting the right members for your editorial board, effectively communicating with reviewers, distilling the feedback received, and showing appreciation to your team. Whether you're a seasoned writer or embarking on your first publishing journey, this webinar will equip you with the tools and strategies needed to enhance your nonfiction work with invaluable peer insights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make your book the best it can be.

Here is the sample letter referenced in the session:
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../Editorial-Board-_2D00_-Sample-Letter_5F00_ALC.pdf
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../EnhancingYourNonfictionBookwithEditorialBoards.mp4

About the Presenter:
Cathy Fyock is The Business Book Strategist, and works with professionals and thought leaders who want to write nonfiction books as a business growth strategy. She is the author of 12 books, including “On Your Mark”, “Blog2Book”, “Authority”, “My New Book: The Upcoming Message that will Change the World”, and her newest book, “Writer Crisis Hotline”, co-authored with Allie Pleiter. Cathy's book, “The Speaker Author: Sell More Books and Book More Speeches”, became a #1 international bestseller in public speaking and speech writing, authorship, business consulting, publishing books and more. Her newest book, “Writer Crisis Hotline” was written with coauthor and ALC contributor Allie Pleiter. Since Cathy started her business in 2014, she has helped over 230 professionals become published authors. She believes that authors change the world, one word at a time.

Tags: Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Enhancing Your Nonfiction Book with Editorial Boards

Author Learning Center — Thu, 30 May 2024 20:10:24 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 5/30/2024 8:10:24 PM

Have you just completed the first draft of your nonfiction book and are wondering what comes next?

Tags: Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

The Art of Editing: The Journey from First Draft to Final Draft

Derek Taylor Kent — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 14:14:00 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Derek Taylor Kent on 12/8/2021 2:14:00 PM

So you finished your book? That's great! But now comes the hard part. How can you self-edit so that it's in good enough shape for critical readers, agents, and publishers? How do you know if you need a professional editor?

Bestselling author Derek Taylor Kent has worked with some of the top editors from the top publishing houses and knows what they are looking for in a manuscript. In this webinar, he'll teach you strategies for editing that will make it less daunting, and even fun! Plus he'll review the most common grammatical issues that most authors don't even know about, but make their writing appear amateur instead of pro. This is not to be missed for any writers who have finished or are near finished with their first drafts.

Here is the handout referenced in the session:
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../Art-of-Editing_5F00_Kent_5F00_ALC-Handout.pdf

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheArtofEditingTheJourneyfromFirstDrafttoFinalDraft.mp4

About the Author:
Derek Taylor Kent is the author of 17 books encompassing a wide variety of audiences and genres. He has also produced 15 audiobooks to date. He received a three-book deal from HarperCollins for his middle-grade series 'Scary School' and his picture book 'El Perro con Sombrero' was published by Holt/Macmillan after a multi-publisher bidding war. It has been one of the best-selling bilingual picture books in the world since its release in 2015. His puzzle-thriller for an adult audience, 'Kubrick's Game', was published by Evolved Publishing and twice became the #1 best-selling book on Amazon and received a Reader's Favorite Gold Medal. He recently founded the brand Whimsical World with his wife, children's author and ALC speaker Sheri Fink, with a mission to inspire, delight, and educate children of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement. He taught writing and publishing classes for several years at The Writing Pad in Los Angeles. Discover more at www.DerekTaylorKent.com and www.WhimsicalWorldBooks.com.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

The Art of Editing: The Journey from First Draft to Final Draft

Author Learning Center — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 13:39:06 GMT

Revision 3 posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 12/8/2021 1:39:06 PM

Here is the handout referenced in the session:
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../Art-of-Editing_5F00_Kent_5F00_ALC-Handout.pdf

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheArtofEditingTheJourneyfromFirstDrafttoFinalDraft.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

The Art of Editing: The Journey from First Draft to Final Draft

Author Learning Center — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 13:14:38 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 12/8/2021 1:14:38 PM

Best-selling author Derek Taylor Kent has worked with some of the top editors from the top publishing houses and knows what they are looking for in a manuscript. In this webinar, he'll teach you strategies for editing that will make it less daunting, and even fun! Plus he'll review the most common grammatical issues that most authors don't even know about, but make their writing appear amateur instead of pro. This is not to be missed for any writers who have finished or are near finished with their first drafts.

The Art of Editing: The Journey from First Draft to Final Draft

Author Learning Center — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 19:48:51 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 12/7/2021 7:48:51 PM

About the Author:
Derek Taylor Kent is the author of 17 books encompassing a wide variety of audiences and genres. He has recorded/produced 15 audiobooks (12 in 2020 alone), including the audiobook for this thriller 'Kubrick’s Game', which won the Reader’s Favorite Gold Medal for Best Fiction Audiobook of 2017. The audiobook for his middle-grade book 'Scary School' was named by Audiofile Magazine as best children’s audiobook of the year. Derek's middle-grade novel 'Principal Mikey' became a #1 best-seller and was just released on audiobook. He recently founded the brand Whimsical World with his wife, children's author and ALC speaker Sheri Fink, with a mission to inspire, delight, and educate children of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement.

Determining the Best Editing for You and Your Book

Author Learning Center — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 19:30:38 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 6/4/2021 7:30:38 PM

Editing is an essential part of any successful book. Often, it’s what turns a good story into a great one. For authors new to the editing process there are many details to sort through, including what type of editing you need, how much, and when you should hire a professional. But before you even think about reaching for that red pen, let's first define the different types of book editing.

Types of book editing

There are numerous types of editing and even more names for them. The terms often mean different things to different people. So, before you hire an editor, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. Don't assume your definition matches theirs. With that said, here are the standard definitions for the four main types of book editing.

Developmental editing

Developmental editing (sometimes called stylistic, substantive, or content editing) ensures the foundation of a book is solid and the story is polished. During developmental editing the editor looks at the manuscript as a whole and evaluates what works and what doesn't. Think big picture. For fiction books, the developmental editor examines the characters, plot, structure, continuities, and pacing. For nonfiction books, the editor focuses on the organization and structure of the work as a whole.

Line editing

Line editing examines the manuscript line by line and focuses on the craft of writing. It is often done in conjunction with developmental editing, but not necessarily. A line editor takes a closer look at the manuscript and reviews writing style, word choice, paragraph structure and flow, redundancies, and areas that need clarification. A line editor is not focused on grammar and typos, but helps to improve the quality of your writing.

Copyediting

While developmental editors look at big picture items, copyeditors take a narrow view to fine tune the details. Copyediting includes fixing errors in grammar, syntax, and punctuation. Copyeditors don't attempt to fix the overall story, so don't expect your copyeditor to identify errors in your manuscript's plot or structure.

Proofreading

Once the manuscript is formatted, proofreading ensures there are no formatting mistakes, typos, or inconsistencies. Proofreading also includes making sure changes are made between versions of manuscripts. This is typically handled by the production department of a traditional publishing company, but the author may also be involved. Authors self-publishing are ultimately responsible for proofreading.

How much editing does your book need?

All manuscripts need editing. But the amount of editing your book needs depends on two things: your publishing method and your personal practices and skills. First, your publishing method is a major factor in the amount of editing needed. When you self-publish, it's up to you to supply a fully-edited and finished version of your book. That means you're responsible for any editing throughout the publishing process. You can hire editors independently or purchase editing services through your self-publishing service provider. Traditional publishing companies typically have in-house editors who provide copyediting and proofreading. However, you should still consider developmental editing before submission.

Second, consider your personal practices and skills. For example, if you are notoriously bad at grammar and punctuation, you might need copyediting prior to querying agents and traditional publishers. This makes you (and your book) appear more polished and professional, thus boosting your chances of landing a contract. If your personal practices involve heavy critiques and rewrites through a writer's group, your manuscript may not need as much work as one that hasn't been read by anyone else.

When to get an editor involved

Nothing hurts a book's credibility more than poor grammar and typos. You want readers focused on your book's story and message, not missing punctuation or misspelled words. Everyone needs an outside perspective on their work, and a professional editor may be the right person for the job. By investing in editing now, you will reap the benefits when your book rests in the reader’s hands.

Tags: article, fiction, Nonfiction

Advice for Authors on When to Hire an Editor

Beth Kallman Werner — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 15:37:25 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Editorial Assessments by Beth Kallman Werner on 1/15/2021 3:37:25 PM

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../AdviceforAuthorsonWhentoHireanEditor.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Cost of Hiring an Editor and Other Considerations

Beth Kallman Werner — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 15:04:35 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Editorial Assessments by Beth Kallman Werner on 1/15/2021 3:04:35 PM

When hiring a professional book editor to review your work, it's important to know that book editors can charge in different ways. Editor and book marketing advisor Beth Kallman Werner charges by the page, while some editors may charge by the word or by the hour. She discusses why she charges this way, where authors can find book editing cost estimates, and other important considerations when hiring an editor.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheCostofHiringanEditorandOtherConsiderations.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Advice for Authors on When to Hire an Editor

Beth Kallman Werner — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 22:10:02 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Editorial Assessments by Beth Kallman Werner on 1/14/2021 10:10:02 PM

Editor and book marketing advisor Beth Kallman Werner explains when writers should consider hiring a professional editor.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../AdviceforAuthorsonWhentoHireanEditor.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Cost of Hiring an Editor and Other Considerations

Beth Kallman Werner — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 21:01:24 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Editorial Assessments by Beth Kallman Werner on 1/14/2021 9:01:24 PM

Editor and book marketing advisor Beth Kallman Werner explains how editors charge for their services, and how much writers can expect to pay.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheCostofHiringanEditorandOtherConsiderations.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Why Professional Editing is a Smart Investment for Your Book

Author Learning Center — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 12:25:04 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 9/11/2020 12:25:04 PM

Professional book editors understand editing standards, genre expectations, and industry trends, and can be hired at any point in the writing process to help strengthen your manuscript. If you've submitted your manuscript to agents or publishers and have received rejections or non-responses, you should consider hiring an editor to do an assessment. He or she can help you determine what's holding your story back from getting a publishing deal. For writers that are pursuing a self or independent publishing path, consulting a professional editor prior to publication will greatly increase your chances of producing a polished book that will attract readers. In this collection of interviews, authors and editors discuss the benefits of working with a professional editor and what to expect with that partnership.
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../WhyProfessionalEditingisaSmartInvestmentforYourBook.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Why Professional Editing is a Smart Investment for Your Book

Author Learning Center — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 12:04:39 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 9/11/2020 12:04:39 PM

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Why Professional Editing is a Smart Investment for Your Book

Author Learning Center — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 19:21:13 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Editorial Assessments by Author Learning Center on 9/10/2020 7:21:13 PM

Many writers believe that self-editing their manuscript or having a friend or family member review it is enough prior to publication. It’s usually not. Without professional editing, your manuscript will likely contain several grammatical errors and maybe even some major plot holes, structural issues, or character inconsistencies that you’ve overlooked. It's easy to become blind to your mistakes when you've been working on something for so long and are too close to the material. Professional book editors understand editing standards, genre expectations, and industry trends, and can be hired at any point in the writing process to help strengthen your manuscript. If you've submitted your manuscript to agents or publishers and have received rejections or non-responses, you should consider hiring an editor to do an assessment. He or she can help you determine what's holding your story back from getting a publishing deal. For writers that are pursuing a self or independent publishing path, consulting a professional editor prior to publication will greatly increase your chances of producing a polished book that will attract readers. In this collection of interviews, authors and editors discuss the benefits of working with a professional editor and what to expect with that partnership.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Importance for Christian Authors in Finding the Right Editor for Their Work

Edie Glaser — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 17:15:40 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Edie Glaser on 4/10/2020 5:15:40 PM

Finding the right editor for your book manuscript is a very important part of the revision process. An editor that is familiar with your topic or genre will be able to more effectively edit your book than an editor that is not. Per Christian editor and owner of Crafting Stones, Edie Glaser, if you are writing a Christian-based book, it's important to work with an editor that understands your messages and concepts. This type of editor can help frame the concepts and definitions to reach your target audience. Conferences and online research are both great ways to find the right editor for your work.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceforChristianAuthorsinFindingtheRightEditorforTheirWork.mp4

Tags: Christian Books & Bibles, fiction, Religious & Inspirational, Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, video

The Importance for Christian Authors in Finding the Right Editor for Their Work

Edie Glaser — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 16:26:33 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Editorial Assessments by Edie Glaser on 4/10/2020 4:26:33 PM

Finding the right editor for your book manuscript is a very important part of the revision process. An editor that is familiar with your topic or genre will be able to more effectively edit your book than an editor that is not. Per Christian editor and owner of CraftingStones.com Edie Glaser, if you are writing a Christian-based book, it's important to work with an editor that understands your messages and concepts. This type of editor can help frame the concepts and definitions to reach your target audience. Conferences and online research are both great ways to find the right editor for your work.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceforChristianAuthorsinFindingtheRightEditorforTheirWork.mp4

Tags: Christian Books & Bibles, fiction, Religious & Inspirational, Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, video

The Importance of Hiring the Right Editor Before Submitting a Manuscript to an Agent or Publisher

Marlan Warren — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 17:10:31 GMT

Current Revision posted to Editorial Assessments by Marlan Warren on 12/10/2019 5:10:31 PM

Many first-time authors do not realize the importance of professional editing, believes Marlan Warren, author and book publicist. Warren says writers can become blind to their own work – you miss grammar and spelling mistakes, as well as larger issues with the plot or organization. Without an editor looking out for these mistakes, your book will end up sloppy and it will impact sales. That’s why hiring an editor - the right editor - is a smart investment for authors. Plus, in addition to correcting minor details, many editors can help you figure out how to make your book as marketable and appealing to audiences as possible. Make sure you understand the type of editor you need and that the editor is a good fit for your genre.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceofHiringtheRightEditorBeforeSubmittingaManuscript.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video