Despite there being only one name on the cover, it takes more than one person to turn an idea into a beloved book sitting on shelves across bookstores and homes around the world. Much like a film, it takes different people with different areas of expertise to ensure that a book is in the best form that it can be. Here’s a short rundown of the people who are involved in the publishing process.
Photo from pixabay.com
1. The Author
The name on the cover and the mastermind of the entire operation, the author is the originator of the story. Their main goal is to complete the first draft of the manuscript. They are, of course, the person most responsible for the story and know the most about it. By all intents and purposes, the story is theirs by default, and that’s why it’s their name on the cover. They are also the person likely to kick-start the publication process. However, the author may also choose not to go through the process in its entirety, opting out of several parts in the process and choosing instead to self-publish or to simply leave the first draft as is. Remember: a first draft is not the same as a completed manuscript and should not be treated as such.
2. The Editors
Known by many names, the editors are the next to receive the draft after it’s completed by the author. Editors differ based on what they do for a manuscript, but essentially, the editor reads the manuscript and suggests changes to the draft based on their expertise. The developmental editor might be onboard before the first draft even exists, providing suggestions regarding the story’s substance and working with the author to make sure the story says what the author intends it to. The beta or alpha readers are often people trusted by the author (sometimes writers themselves) to give constructive feedback on the initial draft. The proofreader goes over the manuscript and ensures that the manuscript is free of grammatical and typographical errors and that the plot and structure of the story are sound.
3. The Agent
Once primary edits have been made, authors may then “shop” or “pitch” the story to an agent. The agent works as an advocate for both the story and the author. They are knowledgeable in the industry and work toward finding a home for the story. They ensure that the manuscript goes to a publisher that would help the story reach its full potential. The agent might also still work with the author to further edit the manuscript.
4. The Publisher
The publisher does the work ensuring that the story reaches its target audience. In traditional publishing, the publisher will usually house all of the other people involved in the process, such as editors, designers, and marketers. They ensure that the manuscript is publication ready and set about printing and distributing copies as well as compensate the author according to how well their book sells.
5. The Designer
The designer is in charge of the visual aspects of the book, such as the cover and layout. Their expertise is in making sure that the book is visually appealing and that the aesthetics match the story itself. In the case of self-publishing, authors may directly hire designers to create their layouts and covers or commission art based on the story.
6. The Marketer
The marketer is in charge of letting the public know that the manuscript exists in its “final form.” They may engage in multiple online and offline activities, such as rolling out campaigns, mobilizing readers, and holding events for the author.
7. The Reader
The last part of the process but no less important than the rest, the reader is the intended audience. Regardless of genre, the ideal reader is someone who enjoys the story, respects the process, and spreads the word about the book. Readers are the primary providers of feedback once the story turns from manuscript to book and thus affect publishing in a major way.
No man is an island, and if you’re aspiring to be a traditionally published author, hopefully, that has been made even more clear now. Click here to make an account with us and get your publishing journey started with one of our editors.
Comments