Geoffrey Chesler, a book editor who worked in the publishing industry for more than 50 years, died July 14, the Bookseller reported. He was 81. Chesler was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and moved to Israel in 1962 at the age of 17. While attending Hebrew University of Jerusalem, he decided to move to London to attend the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art. Two years later, he returned to Jerusalem to finish his degree.
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| Geoffrey Chesler | |
After moving back to London in 1972, he began his career in book publishing, which included stints as editorial director at Labyrinth Publishers, an executive editor at Batsford, and editorial director at Carroll & Brown. Chesler was later a senior editor at Kuperard Publishers, and the founding editor of the Culture Smart! guidebook series.
Publisher Joshua Kuperard said that beyond his professional achievements, Chesler would be remembered for "his boundless curiosity, his unshakeable belief in the power of the written word, and the quiet generosity that he extended to colleagues and writers alike.... He leaves behind a legacy of books that continue to inform, entertain and inspire."
Author Anna Shevchenko added that "it is rare to find an editor who deepens the author's perspective so tactfully, with passion and humor," and that "Geoffrey was that exceptional editor. His advice and warmth made working with him a joy."
Book designer Bobby Birchall said Chesler "was a brilliant editor but, more importantly, he was a warm and lovely person to work with and spend time around. Over a period of more than 30 years, we crafted many books together. He truly cared about always producing the best book he could, never cutting corners. Every word, sentence and image mattered to him. He was endlessly curious; his extensive knowledge and anecdotes--delivered with a witty sense of humor--always kept me entertained and informed. He was one of a kind."