A question from Google
AC recently asked about the steps in publishing.
“I have a manuscript I'd like to publish, what are the steps I need to take? Do I need an editor?”
We provided a short answer on the space allowed in Google, but here’s the more detailed answer:
If there's one thing you should not skimp on, it's an edit. A beautiful cover or an enticing book description will get your readers in the door, but they won't stay long if your words are not up to scratch. Even the most experienced of writers will say their editor has been integral to producing a successful book.
Now, take a step back to look at the bigger picture and turning your writing from manuscript to book.
Editing
The first step is to consider what level of editing your manuscript needs – or how much input and assistance you would like. There are three standard editing levels:
Structural edit: As the name suggests, this looks at the structure of your manuscript, as well as the logic and overall content. A structural edit will identify where you need to rework sections or provide more detail so that the work flows logically and reads well.
Copyedit: Checks for spelling mistakes, consistency, and accuracy.
Proofread: This is the final chance to pick up minor typos or typesetting errors in the completed manuscript. Proofing usually occurs when the manuscript has been designed or when the printer's proofs have been received.
Design
Longueville Media is a non-fiction custom publisher, so design is usually a collaborative process with our clients. We begin with a design brief to ensure we understand what design elements are required for their book from the early concept stages. Our designers then engage their creative flair to produce internal page designs and a few cover concepts from that brief.
In our experience, it's always great for an author client to provide design input but not rigid direction. Designers have specific skills translating concepts into book designs, so it's best to give them space to deliver something that fulfils the brief rather than dictate specifics.
We believe it's essential to make your internal page design as engaging as possible. This means considering elements we recognise from magazines, such as breakout boxes for important material or designing key quotes in large font, so those points stand out.
Printing
In recent years, paperback book printing technology has come so far that we can now print one book, whether in full colour or black and white, virtually to the same quality as 500 books, and at reasonable per-unit prices.
Producing a hardback is a different story. It is a very manual process, where each book is handmade by skilled bookbinders. This manual process means that your book can be completely customised to create a unique product. Anyone remotely interested in books should really visit a book bindery to see the craft in action.
Our clients usually find they love the process of being involved in producing their book. Seeing your writing turn from black and white on a computer screen to a finished book in your hand is incredibly satisfying.
I hope this helps.
