Working with the Big 5

What does it really take to become a freelance editor for a major publishing house? In this episode, I talk with Crystal Yang, owner of Rabbit with a Red Pen, about the skills, experience, and professional relationships that can help editors break into Big Five—Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Hachette Book Group, and Macmillan Publishers. Crystal shares how she built her career as a copyeditor, proofreader, and authenticity reader and explains why there is no single path into working with a major publisher. We discuss how editors can strengthen their résumés, expand their networks, prepare for editorial tests, and position themselves for opportunities when they arise. Whether working with a Big Five publisher is a long-term goal or simply one possible direction for your editing career, this conversation offers a practical and encouraging look at how to prepare for the opportunity. Visit https://www.rabbitwitharedpen.com/ to learn more about Crystal and her business. Leave a review or share this episode with your fellow editors! Check out other episodes of The Editor’s Half Hour: piquepublishing.com/podcast Connect with me on Instagram: @Editors_Half_Hour Subscribe to my newsletter: tinyurl.com/EditorsHalfHour Become a Patreon Sneak “Pique” supporter for $5/month to get access to exclusive content on YouTube: patreon.com/EditorsHalfHour