Rebecca M.

Hello! I’m an early-rising, coffee-drinking, book-loving freelance editor who is passionate about children’s literature and picture books. I aim to encourage, inspire, and lend a helping hand along your journey as an author. Many editors focus on grammar alone. I focus on how your story feels to a child—and how it connects with who it’s meant to reach. I specialize in read-aloud flow, ensuring your story sounds natural, engaging, and enjoyable in any setting. I also bring a strong awareness of audience and market positioning, helping your book meet the expectations of its target readers. I work with picture books, early readers, and middle grade manuscripts, supporting authors at every stage—from big-picture structure and pacing to final polish. My Experience... With over a decade of editing experience, I use my bachelor's in education and editing training from the University of Michigan to focus specifically on children’s and picture book manuscripts. Over the past several years, I've worked with many wonderful authors—from debut authors to best-selling. Often, authors I’ve worked with include me in the acknowledgements of their published books. Beyond my experience and training, I truly know kids’ books. So well, in fact, I have quite a few favs I can read to my little guys without looking at the words (but don’t tell them). I’m well acquainted with classic authors like Bill Peet, Lois Lensky, and Maurice Sendak. I know authors who have been around for a while, like Laura Numeroff, Stan and Jan Berenstain, and Patricia Polacco. And I keep up with newer authors like Jez Alborough, James Dean, and Karma Wilson. I even have a vintage children’s book collection (something my husband fails to fully appreciate, lol). Let’s Work Together... I know what makes a good book, and, more importantly, I know how to make one just a little better. I can help you add that unique flair, catch that wee little thing kids won’t like or may stumble on, or shine up a line that will bring an extra-big laugh. All you need to know about me before we work together is that I’m a Christian, and I try to ensure the projects I take on reflect my beliefs. I’m flexible, easy to work with, and honest. Never a need to be nervous or fearful about handing over your manuscript. I’d like us to be a team and make your book the best it can be. My goal is to be helpful by finding mistakes, offering suggestions, and providing constructive, encouraging feedback. EDITING SERVICES MANUSCRIPT CRITIQUE / BETA READ - For authors who want written professional feedback without the expense of a full edit Includes: • Big-picture feedback on story structure, pacing, story flow, strengths, and improvement ideas • Guidance on age-appropriate language and tone Does not include: • Line-by-line edits • Tracked changes within the manuscript • Grammar or proofreading corrections DEVELOPMENTAL / LINE EDITING - A comprehensive edit to strengthen both the story and the writing itself. Includes: • Tracked changes and comments directly within the manuscript • Suggestions to improve story structure and pacing • Line editing to strengthen clarity, rhythm, and readability • Feedback on tone, flow, and word choice for young audiences • Detailed written notes with revision suggestions Does not include: • Final proofreading for publication • Layout or formatting evaluation before/after illustration placement PICTURE BOOK LAYOUT / STORY FLOW ASSESSMENT - Designed for picture book authors who want help shaping their manuscript for illustrations, page turns, and overall visual storytelling. Includes: • Review of how the story flows across a typical 32-page picture book format • Suggestions for page turns and story pacing across spreads • Guidance on where illustrations can carry the story • Feedback on text density and balance between words and visuals • Suggestions for scene breaks and natural page divisions • Notes on moments that could create strong visual interest for illustrators Does not include: • Full developmental editing or line-by-line edits • Illustration creation or art direction • Layout design or formatting for print FINAL PROOFREADING - A careful final check before publication to catch small errors that may remain. Includes: • Detailed review for spelling, grammar, and punctuation • Correction of minor wording or formatting issues • Multiple read-throughs of the manuscript • Audio read-through to catch subtle errors the eye may miss Does not include: • Developmental feedback or story changes • Major rewriting or restructuring *Project Details & Pricing* Because every manuscript is unique, I provide custom flat-rate quotes after reviewing your word count, target age group, and editing goals – just send me a message and we can talk. A Final Note Before You Go YOUR SATISFACTION is essential to me. I want you to be 100% happy. If you are ever dissatisfied with your edits (even a bit), I’ll make it right—PROMISE!