A typesetter impatiently asked the Pen master, "Will our esteemed designer ever reach enlightenment?"

The master looked up from reviewing the publishing schedule. "She's waiting on the editor."

"And when will the editor reach enlightenment?"

"He's waiting on the designer."

Are you waiting for enlightenment in your work as an editor, proofreader, typesetter, or writer? Wait no more! Here are tales not of the Zen master but rather of the Pen master, whose job is to open the minds of publishing professionals everywhere. Each tale illuminates a different aspect of the publishing life for the reader's contemplation, including:

- Rules

- Mechanics

- Technology

- Meaning

- Knowledge

- Records

- Deadlines

- Order

- Context

- Attention

- Corrections

- Taste

- Evaluation

- Marketing

- Sources

- Efficiency

- Reputation

- Advancement

- Perfection

- Legacy

As is customary in Zen tradition, each tale is followed by enlightening commentary.

The author writes, "Ponder these stories carefully, and they will lead you to greater enlightenment in the pathways of publishing."

Presenting deep insight into the nature of the publishing world, Tales of the Pen Master is a must-have guide to finding greater serenity and understanding for anyone who works with words.