The value of editorial guidance for nonfiction titles continues to drop — either because (a) Authors don’t think they need it (they do, always); or (b) Editors don’t do their job (and authors don’t know enough to demand better).
No one can edit their own book, but there are seven simple strategies for better ensuring you do the right prep to get the best feedback, resulting in a stronger work.
The value of editorial guidance for nonfiction titles continues to drop — either because (a) Authors don’t think they need it (they do, always); or (b) Editors don’t do their job (and authors don’t know enough to demand better).
No one can edit their own book, but there are seven simple strategies for better ensuring you do the right prep to get the best feedback, resulting in a stronger work.
Keep in mind that due to your proximity both intellectually and otherwise, you are simultaneously the best and the least qualified person to write your book well. So come hear Jeevan rant and moan (anything else would be out of character for him) but also give you seven things to think about that could make the difference in shaping your next book. He will also take your questions and assorted abuse.
The session costs you nothing, and there’s a healthy chunk of time for Q&A afterwards. And as an extra bonus, one live attendee will win a free registration to our 2026 BookPlan marketing workshop!
Jeevan Sivasubramaniam is the VP of Editorial at Berrett-Koehler Publishers. He has been in publishing for thirty years in acquisitions and administration and has worked with over 700 authors and books.
The dates and topics of further Cranky sessions are still to be determined.
Ever since that childhood debacle with the lemonade stand, there are plenty of nonfiction authors and to-be authors who hate the idea of self-promotion and marketing, so what should they do?
Continue Reading Marketing for Authors (and Authors To-Be) Who Hate Marketing
All nonfiction book proposals ask for the same basic bits of information, but what are publishers really looking for? What are the words, commitments, and things that make them sit up and take notice and what makes for a damn good proposal? In this webinar on September 10, 2025, Jeevan Sivasubramaniam (who has reviewed, no…
Continue Reading What Publishers Really Want to See in Your Book Proposal (But Won’t Tell You)
Agents can figure out if your book will sell, refine your proposal, introduce your book to the editors that are the best fit, and help you ensure you get a fair contract. They can’t work miracles.
Is AI the end of book publishing and authors as we know it? This conversation features Jeevan Sivasubramaniam, VP of Editorial at Berrett-Koehler Publishers, and Thad McIlroy, a published author and journalist, founding partner of Publishing Technology Partners, a contributing editor to Publishers Weekly, a board member at Johns Hopkins Press, and the principal of The Future of Publishing.
Continue Reading Threat, Benefit, or Both? What AI Means for Your Book and the Publishing Industry
It’s a good question: Are they? Many authors have indicated how even with traditional houses, they receive minimal editorial guidance or work. And I hate to admit it, but I have looked at many traditionally published books over the last couple of years and wondered—did an editor even look at this? Is this also turning the tide towards self-publishing since editorial shaping was one of the hallmark advantages of traditional publishing houses?
Continue Reading Are Editors Even Important or Needed Any More?
