Tips from an Editor: Five Times to Say Yes

The “Now What?” Months continue, and we’re shifting our focus to the wide world of publishing! Today, Heather Lazare, editorial and publishing consultant, shares five “yes”es you have to check off your list, including “Yes, my novel is freaking awesome!”:

You did it! You wrote your book! NaNoWriMo inspired you to hunker down and get that first draft on paper. …And now for the heavy lifting of draft after draft. As a freelance editor, I like to encourage authors to get as much free help as possible before paying a professional. If you can reply yes to all of the below (be honest), then let’s talk.

You’re not the only person who has read your manuscript, right? 

When you are so immersed in the process, it can be hard to see the forest for the trees (which, incidentally, is the title of a wonderful book on writing by literary agent and author Betsy Lerner). It’s essential to get feedback from others before approaching an editor. Read this great post for advice on how to find readers. 

Did you take regular time away from your book? 

It’s helpful to have a break, especially if all your free time since November has been spent editing, reading, and tweaking. Your brain has not had a chance to reset. Take at least a week away from your manuscript between each draft. You and your book will thank each other.

Are your first 20 pages freaking awesome? 

Do not wait to tell us what your book is about. Do not spend the first fifty pages setting up what’s going to happen in the rest of the book. Get your plot going on page one and keep your reader turning the pages. 

Freelance editors can book months in advance, so having those first pages as solid as possible will help score you a place in their queue. Then, while you’re waiting for your date to come up, you can continue the editing process on your own. An editor will certainly help make these pages even better, but remember that most editors aren’t going to read to page 150 to decide if they are interested in working with you.

Can you articulate what your book is about? 

Don’t wait for someone else to tell you what you’ve written. Think deeply about your book and spend time figuring out your pitch. When an author is able to explain their book effectively in a sentence or two, I can tell they are focused and willing to put in the necessary work to make it even better. 

Can you leave your ego behind? 

You are about to pay someone to thoroughly read, critique, and edit your manuscript. This person is going to tell you that your book needs work. This can make you feel raw, annoyed, shocked, frustrated, and a slew of other emotions. Be prepared to listen and take in the comments and suggestions. An editor’s goal is to help their client create the best book possible, so always keep that in mind!

Happy writing and editing!

Heather Lazare is an independent Editorial and Publishing Consultant who has worked for Random House and Simon & Schuster. She lives in Pacific Grove, CA with her husband and toddler son.

Top photo by Flickr user @Doug88888.