Our Meet the Team series gives you the chance to meet the people behind the imprint, what they do, what they love and why they got into publishing.
Welcome to the fourth instalment where we return to fabulous editorial team to meet Delayna Spencer, Senior Commissioning Editor.
What’s your role at Hodderscape, and what does a typical day look like?
I’m a senior commissioning editor! A typical day for me is quite varied, which I love. I often spend my time editing books, writing copy, communicating with my authors, and reading submissions. I have plenty of admin to do in between all of that. I’m also often in meetings with colleagues in different departments, or with agents, and authors.
What drew you to publishing – and how did you get started?
Like everyone else in publishing, I have always been a voracious reader. Since being very little, I could always be found with a book in my hands, huddled up in a corner. I was keen to work with books, so decided to go into publishing. I actually started in academic publishing, and worked in that space for 11 years commissioning textbooks for Education undergraduates and also professional books for teachers.
What book made you fall in love with SFF? And what, in your opinion is the most under-rated SFF book?
Books! The Dragonlance Chronicles by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman, The Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice, and The Elenium by David Eddings.
The most underrated SFF to me is probably the Xenogenesis Trilogy/Lilith’s Brood by Octavia Butler. You hear a lot about Kindred and Parable of the Sower, but I love her exploration of human and non-human relationships, her advocacy around climate change which she was incredibly passionate about, and the many possibilities and futures she sees for humanity.
What is the best thing about your job?
Helping authors to shape their books. I enjoy working with passionate authors in a collaborative way, helping to bring their vision to life. Also, working with the entire Hodderscape team – they make coming to work such a joy!
What are you most proud of in your role?
I think what I’m most proud of is being able to make the transition from academic publishing to trade. They are extremely different beasts, and there was a crazy amount to get my head around when I first started, but I think I’ve been able to learn a lot very quickly, and acquire some WONDERFUL books for Hodderscape.
What is your top tip for someone wanting to get into the publishing industry?
Showing passion. I think what an interview panel always wants to see is enthusiasm for the books that they publish, no matter how big or small. Always do your research before an interview. Learn about the publisher, the books and authors they have, the market. Explore roles outside of editorial – there are so many jobs in publishing that people might not know about, and offer different ways to work on books, such as Rights, Contracts, Production, and more.
Upcoming Titles from Delayna's List:
