Editing non-fiction requires a different approach from editing fiction. Although we start by performing the same essential functions in terms of correcting errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar, and typos, instead of looking at characterization, dialogue, and plot development as we would with fiction, we focus on structure, organization, clarity, and references in non-fiction.
Like fiction editors, we look for repetitious words and recommend synonyms, ferret out inconsistencies and redundancies, and identify parts of the manuscript that may be unclear. This is particularly useful for people for whom English is a second language, who may have difficulty finding appropriate words or expressing themselves clearly.
We pay special attention to memoirs, which provoke interesting and potentially complicated questions such as, “Does the story of my life really belong to me? Or does it also belong to the other people to whom I refer? To what extent can I talk about what happened to me in my life if it might hurt someone else or if they might sue me or never speak to me again?”
We also enjoy working on academic papers and business manuals, and we have extensive experience copy editing self-help and inspirational books. We examine quotes and confirm that writers can quote specific lines from someone else’s work or lyrics if they are in the public domain.
Non-fiction requires an eminently professional approach, and we guarantee that here at Book Magic!
Copy editing is 2 cents per word.
Proofreading is 1.2 cents per word.
Please inquire about our free sample edits of 500-600 words of text.
