Robert Gottlieb started in publishing in 1955. Just 10 years later he became editor-in-chief at publishing house Simon & Schuster. Following that, he went to Alfred A. Knopf, where he was again editor-in-chief. Over the course of his more than 60 year career, he became the most important editor in publishing, and edited hundreds of books. By his estimate, he edited more than 700, including books from Michael Crichton, Toni Morrison, former President Bill Clinton, and biographer Robert Caro. 

Listen to hear advice from Gottlieb on editing, book design, marketing, and publishing.

Bibliography:

Avid Reader: A Life (2017) by Robert Gottlieb 

Gottlieb’s interview with Terry Gross/ Fresh Air 

People Discussed in the Episode: 

00:54 | Robert Gottlieb | Legendary book editor and publishing executive

01:57 | Robert Caro | Pulitzer-winning biographer of Robert Moses and Lyndon Johnson

04:10 | Marion Fiery | Children’s book editor at Harper & Brothers

09:31 | Lauren Bacall | Hollywood actress

09:38 | Julia Child | American chef and television personality

14:20 | Terry Gross | Host of NPR’s Fresh Air