Books allow for a thoroughgoing analysis of a specific issue—and for detailed descriptions of individual and organizational achievements. A book puts the author "on the map." It allows room for an integrated and detailed discussion of an idea, an achievement, a program, a philosophy, a cause.

For the past couple of decades, I've worked as an author's editor, helping senior executives, physicians, and educators develop nonfiction book manuscripts. You needn't be a writer to be an author. I can take you where you're at—and support you through all the phases.

You may, for example, have formulated a preliminary idea (or a notion) that requires further research and conceptual development.

Or you may have developed an outline that requires elaboration and additional supporting background material.

Or you may have put together a collection of notes and draft writing that is ready to be assembled into a preliminary manuscript.

You may actually have developed a manuscript that now needs revision and substantive editing.

I specialize in working with busy professionals who are "on the run"—and whose time is at a premium. Our collaboration might work like this.

I meet or speak with you once or twice a week (or more) and draw out your knowledge and experience.
Using information from these interviews, and from other sources and materials, I assemble preliminary drafts.
Then (perhaps using email, probably using email) we begin a writing and editing process that leads step-by-step to a publishable manuscript.

I've been through this process numerous times, and I've seen it work. I've seen the satisfaction authors derive from the writing and editing experience. And I've seen the concrete payoffs they gain from a well-conceived, thoroughly-researched, engagingly-written book.

Don't go it alone. All published writing is professionally enhanced in some way, and all book writers (even the best of the best) rely on editorial guidance and advice.

If you're considering a book project, give me a call (651-278-4824) or drop me a note (otteson@aol.com). I'll listen carefully to your ideas—and we'll go from there.

Orlo J. Otteson
651-278-4824
otteson@aol.com