" Speak to any editor and ask them what they turned down, and they’ll have long lists of books. "
- Jasper Fforde

Editors often face the challenging task of choosing which manuscripts to publish among the numerous submissions they receive. The statement suggests that even the most experienced editors have a substantial backlog of rejected books, indicating the rigorous selection process and high standards maintained within publishing houses.

This quote also highlights the subjective nature of the editing profession and the difficulty in making choices when many works possess merit but cannot all be published due to limited resources or market constraints. It underscores the reality that rejection is a common experience for aspiring authors and reflects on the complex decision-making processes behind selecting literature for publication.

The quote is attributed to Jasper Fforde, an English author known for his imaginative and inventive writing style. His works often blend elements of fantasy, satire, and humor, making him a distinctive voice in contemporary fiction. Through this statement, Fforde offers insight into the publishing industry's dynamics and acknowledges the rigorous yet essential role that editors play in shaping literary content available to readers.