Jessica Lee Anderson – Editor

I studied education to become a teacher and had a chance to take a children's literature course that rocked my world. I re-read some of my favorite books from my youth, and I knew that's what I wanted to do: write books for young readers. I set out to learn more about storytelling and craft. When I wrote my first novel, I became brave enough to seek critiques and incorporated editorial feedback to strengthen my story. This book was eventually pulled from the slush pile for publication. I went on to study children's literature in graduate school, earning a Master of Arts from Hollins University. Studying there helped me to hone my writing and editorial skills which are things that I look forward to sharing with you. My list of writing credits includes fiction and nonfiction for a variety of children's magazines, anthologies, early readers, picture books, chapter books, and novels for middle graders and teens. My love of writing combined with my love of teaching led me to become an instructor at the Institute of Children's Literature where I went through extensive critique training. I also later taught a graduate level children's literature course at St. Edward's University and had the honor of working closely with my students editorially.

Over the years, I've critiqued manuscripts professionally for writing competitions, at SCBWI conferences, and also independently. It is a privilege and joy for me to work with writers of all ages and experience levels to reach those "aha" moments and get their manuscripts polished and ready for the market. I think it is important to discuss what your goal is overall and what you're looking forward to accomplishing with a critique. Each person has a unique story to tell, and I aim not to change an individual's voice, but rather to amplify it along with the overall story. I like to point out what's working and why as well as show areas of the story that can be strengthened. My feedback is truthful as I believe this is the best way to grow as a writer, though I aim to be as professional and supportive as always. I understand all too well how sharing your work with others can make you feel vulnerable, though I have experienced how editorial feedback has helped strengthen me as a writer and led to publishing contracts. Whatever your dream might be, I would be honored to share my expertise with you!

PRAISE FOR MY EDITORIAL WORK

"Thank you so much for your guidance, and for believing in me. I would not have written it without you, your guidance and encouragement." --Kim Han, author of "The Canadian Inuit Dog: Icon of Canada's North"

"You helped me get unstuck! I just needed your fresh, talented eyes!!!" --Jennifer Coleman, author of "The Texas Nutcracker"

"God has blessed me and put people in my path that really know this business, otherwise I’d be lost. You have no idea how grateful I am!" --Claudia Villarreal, author "The Bully Who Learned to Love"

" Your notes, as always, are spot on and gave me a fresh look at my manuscript." --Lori Keckler, picture book author

"Thank you so much for all of your pointers and advice. I was feeling a bit lost and felt that some areas just weren't right. Having someone else read it and give me some of their thoughts is just what I needed. I really appreciate the time you put into reading and critiquing. I feel like I can go forward now with a better idea of what I need to fix and change." --Katie Klein , picture book author