Great books don't happen by accident. Sarah Crichton, one of publishing's most respected voices and the founder of Sarah Crichton Books at FSG, joins host Sarah Russo for an unfiltered conversation about what it takes to acquire, edit, and launch books that last. They cover everything: crashing books in secret, fighting for the right jacket design, discovering A Long Way Gone by child soldier, Ismeal Beah, the differences between being a publisher and an editor, what to understand about hiring a developmental editor, and more. Whether you're an author, aspiring editor, or publishing professional, this episode is a masterclass.For more information on Sarah Crichton’s work, visit her website: Sarah’s website or connect with her on LinkedInBooks mentioned in this episode:“Cyberwar” by Kathleen Hall Jamieson“A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier” by Ishmael Beah“What Is the What” by Dave Eggers“A Mighty Heart” by Mariane Pearl, co-written with Sarah Crichton“Portrait of a Marriage: A Memoir” by Judy Crichton and Jennifer Crichton“Fierce Attachments” by Vivian Gornick“The Odd Woman and the City” by Vivian Gornick“M Train” by Patti SmithKey MomentsSarah C. tells the story of discovering “A Long Way Gone” by Ishmael Beah — a book passed over by every publisher — and how a deliberate cover strategy and the first-ever Starbucks book pick turned it into a classroom staple.Sarah reveals what makes her sit up when reading a submission, and the brutal reality of how critics decide what to review.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices