[Stylist] Becoming a book editor

[Vejas Vasiliauskas]

Hi Bridgit and Chris,
Thank you both for taking the time to give such thorough responses. I will keep your comments in mind.
Thanks,
Vejas

> On 20 May 2019, at 14:56, Chris Kuell via Stylist <stylist at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Vejas,
> 
> I think Bridgit gave you an excellent answer, and I have little to add. I've
> been editing for pay for 10 years now, and enjoy it tremendously, but can't
> feed my family on what I make. And I spent many years critiquing, reading,
> and editing before I even considered asking anyone for money. 
> 
> Good luck,
> 
> Chris
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Stylist [mailto:stylist-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Bridgit
> Kuenning-Pollpeter via Stylist
> Sent: Monday, May 20, 2019 3:03 PM
> To: 'Writers' Division Mailing List'
> Cc: Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
> Subject: Re: [Stylist] Becoming a book editor
> 
> Vejas,
> 
> If your goal is to become a book editor, it's totally doable, but it will
> require a lot of time working towards it. One doesn't just become an editor,
> whether for books or magazines. Typically, you need a degree, usually in
> English and/or writing, and most have MFAs also, but not always. Then, you
> usually need to do at least one internship with a publisher of some kind.
> After all this, you will still likely spend years as a copy editor then move
> up to a junior editor before becoming a senior editor. It's a tough,
> competitive field. But you are the determined, hard-working kind of person
> who can do it if this is what you want.
> 
> Of course, you can find independent means of editing. Creating your own
> editing business and doing it independently, but I don't know anyone who
> does this and is able to make their living solely from doing it.
> 
> I know a lot of editors and have worked with a lot of editors. They all say
> it's a difficult field to break into, especially these days, and it can be
> cut-throat. It all depends on how much you want it, and if you're willing to
> put the years of work in. Because, again, it's not like other employment
> options where you immediately begin doing that particular job. To be honest,
> you may even spend time doing glorified receptionist work before getting to
> do any editing. Again, all depends on how much you want to do it.
> 
> The only exceptions I know of about people becoming editors for companies
> quickly are those who have published a couple of books, and most also teach
> at the collegiate level. They have a slightly easier time becoming literary
> editors, but often, they are sought out, not necessarily applying for a
> position.
> 
> Hope this helps.
> 
> Bridgit
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Stylist <stylist-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Vejas Vasiliauskas
> via Stylist
> Sent: Monday, May 20, 2019 1:25 PM
> To: stylist at nfbnet.org
> Cc: Vejas Vasiliauskas <alpineimagination at gmail.com>
> Subject: [Stylist] Becoming a book editor
> 
> Hi all,
> I have really enjoyed being on this list, and appreciated the feedback I
> have been given over the years to improve my writing.
> I have one more year of college as an English major to go, and have been
> exploring career options. My involvement with jury duty last year prompted
> me to get a legal internship this summer, which starts next week.
> I am doing very well in school, but as I have continued with my English
> classes, I've realized that, while I enjoy reading and love investing time
> in the creative activities I have completed, I have little interest in
> writing essays, and even less interest in research papers. That would make
> becoming an English teacher rather difficult.
> I am considering the possibility of becoming an editor. The job outlook
> looks OK, but I wanted to hear from others about the advantages and
> drawbacks of editing for a living. 
> Thank you all for your time.
> Sincerely,
> Vejas
> 
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