Glossary
We’ve curated a glossary of terms regarding all things writing and publishing related. From commonly-used terms to abbreviations, our glossary will guide writers and people starting out in publishing, to cut through the jargon and gain a better understanding.
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Auction
An auction, usually arranged by a literary agent, takes place when multiple publishing houses are interested in acquiring a manuscript and bid against one another to secure the domestic or territorial rights.
Commissioning editor
A person who asks authors to write books for the part of the publisher\'s list for which they are responsible or takes on an author\'s proposal directly or through an agent.
Crossover fiction
This is normally a YA (Young Adult) book which has potential for an adult readership, or vice versa. Recent examples include The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, Turtles All The Way Down by John Green, and How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff.
Deep structural edit
Involves checking and reviewing the content, structure, plot, dialogue, flow, characterisation and clarity of a text.
Developmental edit
This is often done in textbook publishing. The development editor may help the author to decide on an outline and scope of the book, and suggest to the author ways to improve the structure, presentation and writing style.