In part two of our chat with editor Stacy Whitman, we discuss more about how to interact with editors: how to approach them at cons, how to inquire about work you’ve already submitted, and how to butter them up by asking about their current projects. To cap it off, we ask Stacy about her current projects.

This week from our sponsor, Tor: The Wolfman , by Nicholas Pekearo

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Transcript

As transcribed by Mike Barker

continuing the good work of Writing Excuses #12, still no Howard . . .

• epic fantasy does that. People write 400 and 500,000 word novels, and submit them. The editor says we expect 100 to 120,000 words from a new writer.
• Stacy: that reminds me of a strange submission. It was about 400,000 words, and he had carefully put each chapter in a separate manila envelope.
• Don’t do things that make it hard for the editor to read!
• The story of a secretary who called the editor down to her desk to see the man in full Viking costume who declaimed who he was and deposited a manuscript for them to read.
• Do not call an editor without a previous relationship. Polite e-mail or a postcard.
• Don’t gripe about rejection. In fact, a polite thank you note is much better.
• editors are special — they don’t get money, fame, or other rewards. They work in the shadows, are usually overworked and underpaid. Remember this when you decide to blast them for rejecting your work.

How do you approach an editor? For example at a con?

• Strike up a conversation about the con, or something like that. Don’t worry, they will ask if you are a writer.
• Ask “what are you working on right now?” Be  prepared for a long answer. Then ask what kind of fantasy they like.

What is Stacy working on?

• Teen geek, wild at night
• Dragon Codex
• Hallowmere – and a short story about picking that. Apparently looking for a new author, and had several pitches. Selected because of lyrical voice.
• Editors can help with plot, but the writer has to bring voice.

And that’s it for this episode. Next week, back with Howard.