Every book on a shelf has a backstory that began long before a single word was printed. Behind each title lies a carefully considered decision—a verdict delivered during a crucial phase of the publishing process: the editorial meeting. These meetings are where manuscripts live or die, where passionate arguments unfold, and where a publisher’s vision is ultimately shaped.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how publishing houses choose what to publish, delving into the heart of editorial meetings. We’ll uncover the decision-making process, the criteria used, and the collaborative nature of publishing that brings a book to life.

The Purpose of Editorial Meetings

At the core of a publishing house is its editorial team. This group of editors, marketers, rights managers, and sometimes designers and sales representatives gathers regularly in what are known as editorial meetings or acquisition meetings. The primary goal? To evaluate submissions and proposals and determine whether a book aligns with the company’s publishing strategy and has the potential for success in the marketplace.

These meetings aren’t just about taste or literary merit—they’re business decisions grounded in data, trends, and strategic goals. Editorial meetings are essential checkpoints that ensure publishing houses invest their time, money, and resources into projects that are artistically valuable, commercially viable, and strategically relevant.

Where the Journey Begins: The Submission

Before a book reaches the editorial meeting stage, it has already undergone a series of internal evaluations. Most submissions come through literary agents who represent authors and pitch their work directly to editors. These agents act as gatekeepers, filtering out unpolished or unmarketable work and ensuring that the manuscript has a competitive edge.

Editors review these submissions and, if they believe a book has promise, they champion it internally. This is the beginning of a long journey—because even the most passionate editor must convince a room full of colleagues that the project is worth pursuing.

Preparing for the Meeting

When an editor decides to bring a manuscript or proposal to an editorial meeting, they must prepare a detailed pitch. This typically includes:

  • A synopsis of the manuscript

  • Information about the author (credentials, platform, previous publications)

  • Comparative titles (books with similar themes, tone, or audience that have done well)

  • Market analysis (target audience, potential sales channels, competition)

  • Production considerations (word count, illustrations, color pages, etc.)

  • Financial projections (cost of production, marketing budget, estimated profit/loss)

This preparation ensures that every book considered is reviewed not just for its literary merit but also for its commercial potential.

Inside the Editorial Meeting: Anatomy of a Decision

Editorial meetings are dynamic, thoughtful, and sometimes intense discussions. Let’s explore what typically happens inside.

1. The Pitch

The editor presents the book to the group, walking everyone through the core elements of the project: the story, the writing style, the author’s credentials, and why this book deserves to be published. Editors often include sample chapters or, in the case of nonfiction, a proposal with sample content.

2. Discussion

Once the pitch is over, the room opens for discussion. Other team members offer feedback. Marketers might discuss audience appeal, sales reps might assess whether bookstores would stock it, and rights managers might comment on international sales potential.

This stage can be filled with probing questions:

  • “Does this book fill a gap in the market?”

  • “Can the author help promote it?”

  • “Will this resonate beyond a niche audience?”

  • “Does it align with our brand and editorial focus?”

It’s not uncommon for there to be differing opinions. Some team members may love the voice or originality; others may express concerns about market saturation or low commercial appeal.

3. Consensus and Green Light

Decisions are often made by consensus, though in some houses the final call may rest with a publisher or editorial director. If the group agrees the book has potential, the editor gets the go-ahead to make an offer to the author or agent. If not, the project may be passed on—or sometimes, requested for revision.

Key Factors That Influence Decisions

While every book is unique, there are common criteria that publishing teams consider when deciding what to publish:

1. Marketability

This is perhaps the most crucial consideration. Is there an audience for the book? Can it be marketed effectively? Does it align with current trends or stand out from them in a meaningful way?

2. Author Platform

Especially in nonfiction, an author’s platform—social media following, public speaking history, professional background—can heavily influence a decision. Even for fiction, having an engaged audience is a major plus.

3. Quality of Writing

Strong storytelling, engaging prose, and unique voice always matter. Even in commercially-driven publishing, a well-written book carries more weight and garners internal enthusiasm.

4. Comparative Titles (Comps)

Editors often ask: “What books are similar to this one, and how did they perform?” Good comp titles can help a publishing team estimate how well the new book might sell.

5. Originality and Relevance

Does the book bring something new to the conversation? Is it timely or timeless? Publishers look for works that feel urgent, fresh, and meaningful to readers.

6. Production and Budget Considerations

Books that require color printing, custom design, or high production costs can be riskier. Editorial teams weigh cost vs. projected return and factor in whether the book is worth the investment.

What Happens After the Meeting

If a project is approved, the editor makes a formal offer. This typically includes an advance (an upfront payment to the author), royalty terms, and a projected publication timeline. Once the offer is accepted, the real work begins—editing, cover design, marketing, publicity, sales strategy, and more.

Meanwhile, projects that don’t make it through the meeting aren’t necessarily dead forever. Sometimes an author is asked to revise and resubmit. In other cases, the project may find a home at another publishing house better suited to its strengths.

A Balancing Act: Art, Commerce, and Vision

Editorial meetings are a microcosm of the larger publishing industry—a balancing act between art and commerce. Editors must not only fall in love with a manuscript but also convince others that readers will too. They must align their personal taste with the company’s goals and anticipate market trends without being ruled by them.

While the process can seem clinical at times, it’s ultimately driven by a love for books. Editors become passionate advocates for the titles they bring forward. Their goal isn’t just to publish books, but to publish the right books—ones that inform, inspire, entertain, and connect with readers.

Final Thoughts

So the next time you pick up a book at a bookstore, remember: it passed through many hands and survived a rigorous process to get there. Inside an editorial meeting, someone believed in that book, fought for it, and rallied a team around it. That’s the invisible story behind every visible cover—and the reason why editorial meetings remain one of the most critical and fascinating parts of the publishing journey.

Whether you’re an aspiring author or a curious reader, understanding how publishing houses choose what to publish offers a deeper appreciation of the complex, collaborative world behind your favorite books.