Aïcha Martine Thiam – Editor

You’ll want the person working alongside you, in service of your life’s work and passions, to be equally passionate, as well as have the track record to do so. So: who am I to so confidently step into that role?

I worked for many years as an Associate Editor at Page Street Publishing, which is distributed by Macmillan, and in my current position as an Acquisitions Editor for New Harbinger Publications, my relationships with my various authors have been paramount. Outside of my day job in publishing, and in the last 10+ years: I have worn many hats, from Art Columnist, First Reader, Managing Editor, Junior Editorial Consultant, Contributor, Freelance Writer, and more, with various literary journals and creative organizations like The Nasiona, Knee Brace Press, and Supermaker. I have edited manuscripts and stories for clients and close friends, have heralded magazine issues, edited essays and poetry, done voice work, and conceptualized projects like anthologies and musical albums.

What used to be my biggest source of insecurity, namely being “multi” — multi-hyphenated, multi-cultural — is, I believe, my greatest strength, and that adaptability has allowed me to collaborate with those working in many disciplines, whether they are juggling many projects and/or have multimedia experience, or else are deeply invested in one artistic field or work. Additionally as a Francophone who has also studied many other languages, I love being the go-to person for anyone working with translated works, or with English as their second language. The chameleonic nature of my background (as well as the versatility of my interests) means that I can, in short, work with anyone, no matter how complex or straightforward their needs. As an editor with a keen eye for minute details, as well as the macrocosmic, I have a particular knack for developmental editing, as well as line editing, along with the ability to make comments that help unearth those pesky issues each writer is wont to encounter (what’s working here? what needs help? what are you trying to say? was that word intentional? what a fascinating perspective!). I also offer proofreading and manuscript assessments, coaching, and sample feedback.

Collaboration is always the goal: I believe that you know your work and your vision best, and I am here to help refine it, while staying true to your voice. I have been told that my working style is kind, that my rejections and critiques are gentle, and that my clarifying questions are perceptive and compassionate. I believe in marrying together my expertise and background with yours, in service of your life’s work. All the things I have learned, and all the astounding artists I have had the privilege of working with, have galvanized me to create a space for others who are eager to get their work out there, and may need a little help along the way. I humbly believe I have those insights and skills to do just that, and I look forward to you reaching out so we can get started together.