Aaron Lelito

Aaron Lelito – Editor

I am Editor in Chief of a literary publication and former English professor who loves all forms of creative writing—both poetry and prose.

Overview

In addition to being a freelancer, I am Editor in Chief of an online publication that brings together visual and literary arts. One of my main goals there is to provide a welcoming platform for artists and writers to reach a larger audience. Building this dynamic creative community is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.

Other work experience includes being a college-level English instructor, an academic advisor, a director of an after-school learning program (1st-12th grade), and a meditation teacher. Each of these experiences allowed me to develop my interest in writing, creativity, and self-expression.

My editorial skills are best suited for writing that is literary, academic, professional, and creative. Among the subject areas that I enjoy are nature, environment, self-development, personal narrative, literature, psychology, consciousness, Eastern spirituality. My goal as editor is not to provide a formula for success; rather, I seek to connect with the writer's source of inspiration, to clarify the intended messages, and to help polish each piece as it nears completion.

As a workshop facilitator, I have experience with all facets of the writing process, from creativity exercises and generating ideas to fine-tuning word choices, punctuation, and layout.

Services
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Literary Fiction Poetry
Non-Fiction
Humanities & Social Sciences Nature Religion & Spirituality Self-Help & Self-Improvement Writing & Publishing
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Wild Roof Journal

Dec, 2019 — Present
▪ Description of publication: The themes of nature and environment are of particular interest, so the concept of “the wild” is something we explore in each issue. We are most drawn to work that considers the connections and points of tension between the wild and tame, the natural and civilized, the spontaneous and structured. ▪ Publication Details: 4 issues per year, web and PDF format; Substack; podcast. ▪ Workshop Facilitator: Manuscript Review: Creating a Cohesive Poetry Collection Fine-Tuning: Preparing Writing for Submissions * Feedback from contributors: "The community engagement with Wild Roof is so different from other journals. It feels like a real active family, rather than separate categories--writer, publisher, reader. It's all one flowing organism!" * "The WRJ podcast is just the right level of nerdy (but not pretentious) fun; the riffing and talk of craft is inspiring."

The Closed Eye Open

Mar, 2020 — Present
▪ Description of publication: We're interested in a multi-disciplinary approach to consciousness, including pursuits that stem from a scientific background, a spiritual tradition, a liberal arts discipline, or an intrinsic desire to investigate one’s own subjective world. We would like to explore the creative output of anyone who has spent time with the big questions—whether those questions are on the grand cosmic scale, are more focused on the human condition, or are grounded in personal and practical concerns. ▪ Publication Details: 3 issues per year, PDF format Monthly micro poetry feature

Hawkes Learning

Sep, 2019 — Nov, 2021 (about 2 years)
I contributed instructor materials as well as a poem to the college writing textbook Navigating Narratives. I also provided copy editing for Hawkes materials.

Ohlinger Publishing Services

Nov, 2016 — May, 2018 (over 1 year)
I provided copy editing for various Pearson writing and composition textbooks.

SUNY Erie

Sep, 2009 — May, 2023 (over 13 years)
If it involves writing, chances are I've taught it! I have experience teaching intro writing courses, composition for humanities and STEM fields, research writing, and workplace writing. My background in education definitely informs my approach as an editor, since working with students requires patience, encouragement, and empathy, along with the more technical aspects of the writing process. * Student reviews: "He literally is the best English teacher/professor I have ever had. He puts thought into his work and is very detailed. He doesn't take forever for assistance. 100 stars if I could!" * "One of the best professors I've ever had. Hes truly an amazing teacher, and anyone would be lucky to have him for class! If you ever need help on an assignment or want to boost your grade up, he's there to help. Professor L. is an extremely kind, caring, and intelligent individual."

Portfolio

Tilt

Stephens, Morgan

Kelsay Books

Developmental Editing
Field Notes on Avoidance

Larson, Nathan

Nathan Larson

Editorial Assessment
Musicology: A Novella & E.P.

Fongaro, Dan

New Fusion Publishing

Copy Editing
Running Toward Water

Filbrun, Jenna Wysong

Shanti Arts LLC

Developmental Editing
Ink & Skin: Palabra y Piel

Garcia Montenegro, GuePo

Alejandro Garcia

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Frayed Edges: Poems

Steele, Kahlani B.

KBS Publishing

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Copy Editing Proofreading
Copy Editing
Uprooted: A Season of Grief

Burrows, Mary Ann

Natural Narrative Publishing

Copy Editing
What Of Us Remains (Chapbook Series 2)

Williamson, Eric

Eric Williamson

Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing
Seringo

Weld, Charles

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Pieces of Me

Rizik, Alexandria Rose

Copy Editing Proofreading
Copy Editing Proofreading
Proofreading
Copy Editing

Aaron has 62 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Hannah M.

Hannah M.

Apr, 2026

I had a great experience working with Aaron. Since poetry is so subjective, I wanted to work with an editor who would be able to edit for grammar, clarity, and flow without erasing my voice/ style. Aaron delivered! I appreciated his insights and edits, and his suggestions which he offered without...
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Alessia P.

Alessia P.

Apr, 2026

So easy to work with and professional !
Larry L.

Larry L.

Mar, 2026

Aaron did an exceptional job proofreading my book and I highly recommend him!
Skinner M.

Skinner M.

Mar, 2026

It was great to work on my book of poetry with Aaron. Very poetry, artist and voice aware. Thanks much for your time and editorial skills
מאיר צבי ג.

מאיר צבי ג.

Mar, 2026

"I’ve worked with many editors, but Aaron is truly in a league of his own. His professional approach, combined with his incredible intuition, made the entire process seamless. He didn't just review the work—he felt it. If you want someone who will treat your project with the highest level of care...
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