Larry O'Connor – Editor

I am a former Columbia Graduate School of Journalism teacher who can help you find your voice and realize your dream of being a published author. With a system I call "Yes, No, Maybe," I review manuscripts on what is best to keep, what to remove and what to reconsider. The proof is in the reviews: The testimonials and the author comments underscore how this technique has worked -- with both commercial fiction and memoirs -- to bring the story forward by helping to unclutter the writing and make the work the very best it can be. I've also a seasoned eye for line editing and making the right word choice in a way that deepens prose while not intruding on your style.

What's more, for the past two decades I have worked as in-house editor on novels and memoirs written by Doubleday award-winning author, Mary Morris. I started in that role after publishing my own memoir, TIP OF THE ICEBERG, which was shortlisted for the William Saroyan literary prize, and my novel, THE PENALTY BOX. I also am editor of the best-selling VIRAGO BOOK OF WOMEN TRAVELLERS, which was recently reissued in the United Kingdom.

Consider this your one-stop shop for editorial services. I can't wait to help you conquer the big stuff and the small in your work, whether it be a memoir, a contemporary novel, a thriller or a straight-ahead book of nonfiction.

Testimonials:

"Larry is a brilliant editor, able to read on the micro-level but also someone who can really see the forest through the trees. He has helped me shape and revise my books during the past two decades. Larry is a smart, focused professional with a firm but gentle hand who is very responsible and always on time. I would not have the career I have today were it not for him." -- Mary Morris, Doubleday's acclaimed author of novels "Gateway to the Moon," "The Jazz Palace" and travel narrative classic "Nothing to Declare"

"Until recently, I've only had experience working with publishing company editors, and when I decided that I wanted a keen and objective editorial eye on a draft of a new novel I've been working on, I went to Larry. He is highly responsive and timely, but even more important to me was his complete engagement with my novel and his ability to see both the big picture and the nuances in the work. His notes and suggestions were wonderfully cogent, specific, and useful. It was my first time working with Larry, but it won't be my last."
-- Cherise Wolas, acclaimed author of "The Resurrection of Joan Ashby" and "The Family Tabor"