Welcome Back, Booklovers! I've decided to start a new series in addition to my author series which will include interviews with publishing professionals of color. To kick it off I have Norma Perez-Hernandez who is an assistant editor at Kensington Publishing who was kind enough to sit down and answer a few questions.
What does a book editor actually do?
A book editor is an in-house champion for their book, a representative for their publisher, and sometimes, yes, they edit books too.
And what would a typical work day look like for you?
This could also include anything like: filling out paperwork for the art and copy departments, reading and evaluating manuscripts for the possibility of publication, emailing the agents of these manuscripts my thoughts, following up with the status of a manuscript with an author, answering author and agent questions by finding out the answers to those questions from my colleagues, more emails, and sometimes yes, I edit books too.
What’s a common misconception about your role you would like to set straight?
A common misconception about my role that I’d like to get to set straight is that editors are trying to reach readers where they are. When they are working on a book, they do so with readers in mind.
What are some of the biggest challenges you think publishing is facing at the moment?
I think the biggest challenge publishing is facing is, ironically, the question above. Publishers are having their message passed on by booksellers, librarians, and the internet algorithms, and I wonder if that communication is always working.
What types of books are you working on right now?
Today I have worked on:
THE WIFE BEFORE, a domestic thriller take on Rebecca by New York Times bestselling author Shanora Williams
TWICE A QUINCEÑERA, a rom-com about a woman who throws the Sweet Fifteen she never had by acclaimed author Yamile Saied Méndez
What do you look for in the narrative voice when reading manuscripts?
I’m looking for immediacy. If that voice can instantly take me inside their mind and inside the story, then I’m more likely to keep reading.
And how do you keep your enthusiasm for reading outside of the manuscripts you read for work?
Book clubs with friends help keep me accountable. I also despite myself love to read.
What advice would you give to publishing hopefuls?
Keep a curious mind and a patient soul. And please invest in a non-books related hobby!
As an author what types of stories would you like to publish?
Stories about people who sometimes fall in love, but always save the world.
What hobbies do you enjoy outside of reading and writing?
*laughs* do Webtoons count?
You can follow Norma on Twitter @normajeanesays and on Instagram @normajeanewrites
Enjoyed the interview. Very informative.
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