Cindy Kenney - Ghostwriter
Batavia, IL, USA
25-year experienced writer and editor of fiction, children’s, and Christian books with a passion for helping you perfect the written word!
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Overview
As an Award-winning writer and editor, I have worked in publishing for over 25 years creating and identifying great storytelling for readers of all ages.
I specialize in children’s books, women’s fiction, suspense, drama, and Christian fiction, but I have worked on all kinds of fiction and non-fiction. My career highlights include:
> Publishing Director and Writer for Big Idea Inc. (VeggieTales) and Exclaim Entertainment
• I successfully built the book and curriculum departments for both of these companies from the ground up.
• I have written and edited books for over 25 industry publishers, including Scholastic, Harper Collins, Sony
Entertainment, Disney, Tyndale, Zondervan, Simon & Schuster, and more.
> I am the writer of over 75 published books, numerous curriculum programs, scripts, and more, including
best-sellers, award winners, and chart toppers!
> I won the Editor of the Year Award, along with Gold and Silver Medallions for writing and series
development, plus various other awards.
My writing stands out because it is fresh, innovative prose that meets the needs of readers. I have an eye for detail and a keen understanding of market trends. I create intelligent, engaging material that leaps off the page and makes readers want for more.
I am committed to helping writers produce their best work. I will help you develop your voice and shape your story to make your content memorable. I will provide you with insightful, honest, and constructive feedback. I will create a collaborative, encouraging atmosphere and will work to help make your writing shine!
Because I work as both a writer and editor, I know and understand what it takes to produce an outstanding book from fruition through to sale. I will identify your strong points and help you to correct your weaker ones. I will work through each aspect of your story, including setting, plot, voice, pacing, characterizations, style, and structure.
I will provide you with line-by-line editing as it pertains to content and copy, grammar, and spelling and will outline my recommendations for how to approach revisions. I am also happy to go over any questions or concerns that you may have as you work through your changes.
Should you wish, I will also provide you with a second pass after you have made your changes.
I have worked with best-selling authors and first-time writers. I look forward to working with you. Together we will create a book that is everything you hope it will be. I am very anxious to hear from you and read your work. Contact me and reserve your time today!
_______________________________
> EFFECTIVE WRITING, ENGAGING STYLE, & COMPELLING CONTENT THAT CREATES A LONG-LASTING IMPRESSION
> VAST EXPERIENCE, QUALITY EXPERTISE, AND A PASSION FOR CREATING CONTENT THAT BRINGS READERS BACK FOR MORE
> EDITING THAT ENHANCES, CORRECTS, SHARPENS, AND FOCUSES ON MEETING YOUR NEEDS
> ON TIME AND ON TARGET, STRIVING TO MAKE EVERY PROJECT A CUT ABOVE THE REST
_________________________________
I am new to Reedsy, so please ask me if you'd like and I can provide you with excellent references. Thank you! I am looking forward to working with you!
I specialize in children’s books, women’s fiction, suspense, drama, and Christian fiction, but I have worked on all kinds of fiction and non-fiction. My career highlights include:
> Publishing Director and Writer for Big Idea Inc. (VeggieTales) and Exclaim Entertainment
• I successfully built the book and curriculum departments for both of these companies from the ground up.
• I have written and edited books for over 25 industry publishers, including Scholastic, Harper Collins, Sony
Entertainment, Disney, Tyndale, Zondervan, Simon & Schuster, and more.
> I am the writer of over 75 published books, numerous curriculum programs, scripts, and more, including
best-sellers, award winners, and chart toppers!
> I won the Editor of the Year Award, along with Gold and Silver Medallions for writing and series
development, plus various other awards.
My writing stands out because it is fresh, innovative prose that meets the needs of readers. I have an eye for detail and a keen understanding of market trends. I create intelligent, engaging material that leaps off the page and makes readers want for more.
I am committed to helping writers produce their best work. I will help you develop your voice and shape your story to make your content memorable. I will provide you with insightful, honest, and constructive feedback. I will create a collaborative, encouraging atmosphere and will work to help make your writing shine!
Because I work as both a writer and editor, I know and understand what it takes to produce an outstanding book from fruition through to sale. I will identify your strong points and help you to correct your weaker ones. I will work through each aspect of your story, including setting, plot, voice, pacing, characterizations, style, and structure.
I will provide you with line-by-line editing as it pertains to content and copy, grammar, and spelling and will outline my recommendations for how to approach revisions. I am also happy to go over any questions or concerns that you may have as you work through your changes.
Should you wish, I will also provide you with a second pass after you have made your changes.
I have worked with best-selling authors and first-time writers. I look forward to working with you. Together we will create a book that is everything you hope it will be. I am very anxious to hear from you and read your work. Contact me and reserve your time today!
_______________________________
> EFFECTIVE WRITING, ENGAGING STYLE, & COMPELLING CONTENT THAT CREATES A LONG-LASTING IMPRESSION
> VAST EXPERIENCE, QUALITY EXPERTISE, AND A PASSION FOR CREATING CONTENT THAT BRINGS READERS BACK FOR MORE
> EDITING THAT ENHANCES, CORRECTS, SHARPENS, AND FOCUSES ON MEETING YOUR NEEDS
> ON TIME AND ON TARGET, STRIVING TO MAKE EVERY PROJECT A CUT ABOVE THE REST
_________________________________
I am new to Reedsy, so please ask me if you'd like and I can provide you with excellent references. Thank you! I am looking forward to working with you!
Services
Languages
English (US)
Non-Fiction
Children's - Non-fiction
Education & Reference
Parenting & Families
Religion & Spirituality
Christian (Non-Fiction)
Children's
Middle Grade
Picture Books
Fiction
Mystery & Crime
Thriller & Suspense
Awards
- 2005 Editor of the Year Award presented by The American Christian Writer's Guild
- 2004 Gold Medallion Award for Series Creator of "The Mess Detectives"
- 2004 Silver Medallion Award for "God Loves You Very Much"
- 2006 Best in Curriculum Award for Big Idea's VeggieTales "Veggie Connections" for ages preschool through 6th grade
- 2007 "VeggieTales Bible Storybook" - Top 5 Children's Nonfiction books of the Year
- 2008 First Place Winner of Gideon Film Conference Screenplay Award
- 2010 First Place Winner of Midwest Writer's Conference Novel Contest
Work experience
Publishing Director
Exclaim Entertainment
June, 2006
–
July, 2008
(about 2 years)
A media company specializing in entertainment and education. The creators and producers of the hit program, Barney, and the hit series, BOZ the Bear.
I developed book and curriculum publishing from the ground up, responsible for all book and curriculum creation from idea through product sale. I produced and managed timelines, pipelines, and budgets and obtained and maintained publishing and licensing partnerships.
I created fun, innovative products for educational and entertainment purposes. I wrote and edited many books and curriculum materials in addition to training, acquiring, and supervising a publishing staff and freelancers. I developed a pipeline of over 20 books and 4 curriculum programs over a period of just two years.
I provided key support in all aspects of brand development and formed an effective system of operations while building revenue.
I integrated episodic video into curriculum programs to help build brand value and increase revenue and awareness.
I trained staff, freelance writers, and editors. I also represented the company at conventions and conferences offering keynote presentations, writing, and educational workshops.
Publishing Director and Writer
Big Idea Productions
March, 1998
–
May, 2006
(about 8 years)
A media company specializing in family edutainment and publishing. The creators of the award-winning children's series, VeggieTales, 3-2-1 Penguins, Larryboy, and the feature films Jonah and The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything.
I developed and produced a successful book and curriculum product line from the ground up by creating innovative products. I cultivated and supervised production, timelines, pipelines, and budgets. I served as the lead writer and editor in publishing while providing fresh, imaginative ideas and insight into both the curriculum and book marketplaces.
I collaborated with, supervised, and trained all writers, editors, artists, design, marketing, sales, internet, music, and video team members to advance the brand and provide key creative support in all aspects of product development.
I developed long-term relationships with business partners to foster growth and increase sales. This included partnerships with other publishers, licensees, and mission opportunities.
I integrated backlist products and new video into curriculum products to increase public awareness and increase revenue. I wrote,
directed, and produced training and music videos for use in curriculum programming.
I represented the company at conventions and conferences around the country, providing keynote presentations and a variety of teaching and educational workshops while also mentoring writers.
I provided content creation for blogs, articles, and websites. I crafted compelling storylines that captivated our fan base and created new audiences, increasing website visitation.
Freelance Writer, Editor, Speaker, and Voice Artist
Self-employed
January, 1992
–
Present
(almost 28 years)
A freelance entrepreneur providing writing, editing, consulting, and speaking in the publishing arena.
Major clients include (among many others):
- Harper Collins - Sony Entertainment - Zondervan Publishing - Simon & Schuster - * Walt Disney Entertainment - McGraw-Hill Publishing - Quarasan Publishing - WinePress Publishing - Free Spirit Publishing - Celebration Health - Tyndale Publishers - Discovery House - Houghton Mifflin Publishing - B & H Publishing - Precious Moments - The Safe Side - Candlewick Press - Exclaim Entertainment - State Farm - Scholastic - Pearson Publishing - Thomas Nelson - Alpha Omega Publications - Big Idea - Harvest House - Super Snoopers - Angel Press - Christian Broadcast Network - Houghton Mifflin - Candlewick - MacMillan
I am a talented expert with 25 years of solid writing and editorial experience. I provide expert publishing, consultation, writing, editing, and ghostwriting across a variety of genres for fiction, nonfiction, educational, and business content, increasing overall productivity, innovation, and revenue.
I deliver innovative projects from concept development to product launch. I provide a guaranteed deadline delivery along with fast and efficient turn around without sacrificing thorough content development, creativity, and research.
My business has flourished since the start due to effective planning, follow-through, successful product delivery, top-notch customer service, and innovative marketing. I provide strategic problem solving and work hard to create and uncover cost-cutting and revenue-producing opportunities.
I implement strong creativity, leadership, and training while developing content that meets customer needs.
I write and edit extensive projects related to fiction, nonfiction, curriculum, internet, scripts, and much more.
Portfolio (39 selected works)
Join Bob the Tomato, Larry the Cucumber, and all your VeggieTales friends as they share twenty favorite Bible stories. Based on the popular videos, this Bible storybook combines VeggieTales humor with great lessons. Kids will love reading these classic Veggie stories and Scripture selections that go along with them from the New International Reader’s Version (NIrV—The NIV for Kids!) Have fun w... read more
Special Collector's Edition of Big Idea's Jonah--A VeggieTales Movie
Cindy Kenney, Phil Vischer, Michael Nawrocki
'“A long time ago…in a gullet far away…there was a story of a man who was eaten…and lived to tell about it!” So begins the story in Big Idea Production’s first-ever movie production, Jonah-A VeggieTales Movie. This full-color, illustrated Special Collector’s Edition book lets readers peek behind the scenes at the making of the movie. In additions, it includes a beautiful adaptation of the stor... read more
Katie Bennett is new in town and just can't seem to make friends. But she does have one very angelic best friend- Faith. The problem is, no one else can see her. When Katie's mom and aunt suggest that she start the Precious Girls Club, Katie needs a little bit of faith to believe in herself. Will she be able to convince the girls at her school to attend? Maybe if she puts up bright posters, ma... read more
The Precious Girls Club is given an opportunity to become one of the nation's top ten groups to represent Today's Student for a Better Tomorrow. The winner is chosen by the President of the United States. As they put together a video to show off their talents, Bailey feels left out because she has never won an award, prize, or recognition for anything. The solution seems simple. She brings one... read more
Katie Bennett and the Precious Girls Club are on a mission. It's called Operation Kindness. They want to cheer up the sad, lonely children who are sick and have to stay in the Shine Community Hospital. But there's a big problem! Katie and her friends are trying to use their special talents to help other people. They are sure they can make the children in the hospital laugh by presenting their ... read more
Join Katie Bennett and her friend Avery and the rest of the Precious Girls Club as the girls realize that each of them has special and unique gifts and talents. As the girls create gifts for residents of the local hospital and nursing home, Avery is convinced that she is no good at anything. She is discouraged. Things go from bad to worse when Avery gets into trouble at school. Katie's certain... read more
Lost and Found: Book Six (Precious Girls Club)
Cindy Kenney
A lost friend reminds the Precious Girls Club of the importance of friendship and forgiveness.The Precious Girls Club win a week's paid vacation backpacking trip along Pictured Rocks on Lake Superior. Jenny is not happy with this trip but the other girls convince her to come. The girls after hiking start to have fun, all but Jenny. Jenny is miserable and decides that Katie is to blame and is d... read more
On her way home one day, Katie Bennett has a dangerous accident and there is no one around to help her, except her guardian angel Faith. Luckily, help arrives from an unlikely source - a big shaggy dog! Afterward, they discover the dog is a stray, so he is brought to Precious Paws Animal Shelter. When the girls in the Precious Girls Club go to visit the dog, they realize that they can use thei... read more
The Precious Girl's Club tries its best to raise money for new playground equipment as they compete in the Chores for Change contest. Katie is hoping to win first prize, but Becca is more worried about winning her dance contest. Neither of the girls have faith that they can win.Their plans are interrupted when the school bully threatens the entire Precious Girl's Club!What will the girls do wh... read more
When a tornado strikes the Precious Girl's Club pledges its help to the community. Katie declares she will be the "caringst person ever but forgets that caring comes from the heart. She gets wrapped up in proving that she can do more for others than anyone else can. Kirina's family is invited to move in with the Bennetts while their home is being rebuilt. Katie enjoys having Kirina as a new ro... read more
Jesus & Me: Boz's Big Book of Bible Fun (Boz Big Book of Bible Fun)
Cindy Kenney, Renae Johnson
Preschoolers will learn about their personal relationship with Jesus in a volume that is filled with activities and biblical values and lessons that BOZ and friends impart on every page.
My Read and Rhyme Bible Storybook
Crystal Bowman, Cindy Kenney
This Bible Storybook combines fun rhythm and rhyme with a learn-to-read format to help students learn about God’s Word while they learn to read. Young readers will enjoy the lively text and rhythm as well as the stories and engaging art. The stories are written using many of the vocabulary words from the Dolch Sight Word List for young readers. To reinforce reading fluency and build vocabulary... read more
He's big. He's green. He's BOZ the Bear and he's loads of fun. Kids love the big book concept lots of activities, games, colouring, stickers, punch-outs, and more, all in one oversized book where
VeggieTales Elementary Leaders Guide
Cindy Kenney
"Helps parents lead in the spiritual growth of their children"--Provided by publisher.
Veggie Bible Dictionary (VeggieTales VeggieConnections)
Big Idea Inc., Cindy Kenney
The new Veggie Bible dictionary is a great way for kids to learn more about the Bible. With the signature bold Veggie design, sharp Veggie wit, and a few Veggie-isms thrown in, this wonderful little dictionary will have kids wanting to know more about God's Word. The Veggie Bible Dictionary is included in the curriculum kit and sold separately.
Astound kids (and grown-ups, too!) with an entire book of amazing-but-true Bible facts, all hosted by our favorite VeggieTales? characters. These little-known nuggets of truth include Bible wonders and miracles, facts about the human body, nature, creation, weapons, armor and much, much more. Kids won?t want to put this seemingly endless encyclopedia of information down as they discover fun fa... read more
VeggieConnections is the first ever VeggieTales year-round curriculum. Each kit includes a Leaders Guide with a 52-week lesson plan, A Program DVD/Video with 52 introductions, A CD-Rom, Split-track music CD with VeggieTunes and puppet tracks, VeggieTales Bible Dictionary, Bob & Larry puppets, Posters, coloring pads and much, much, more!
Veggieconnections Preschool Curriculum Kit
Cindy Kenney
VeggieConnections is the first ever VeggieTales year-round curriculum. Each kit includes a Leaders Guide with a 52-week lesson plan, A Program DVD/Video with 52 introductions, A CD-Rom, Split-track music CD with VeggieTunes and puppet tracks, VeggieTales Bible Dictionary, Bob & Larry puppets, Posters, coloring pads and much, much, more!
VeggieTales, Good News (Bob and Larry's Clues to)
Cindy Kenney
"Families can work together to build closer relationships with God and each other through this family devotional"--Provided by publisher.
A collection of four VeggieTales books about how God made amazing and wonderful you!---for ages 6 and under This package of fun Veggiebooks contains four board books shaped like kids' favorite Veggie friends: *Bob the Tomato: I Can Do Many Things! Bob the Tomato shows kids how he can do so many things because God made him special. As kids turn each fun page of this book, they discover that God... read more
Bob and Larry's Silly Slides (Big Idea Books)
Cindy Kenney
Pull the tab and see what happens! Hey, kids! Bob and Larry have something fun for you. They're drawing pictures of their Veggie friends, and you can get in on the action, too! Whenever Bob draws a picture, "Larry takes over." He gives each picture a special "makeover." All you have to do is pull the tab, and you can see all the silly changes that Larry made.
VeggieTales Family Devotional (VeggieTales VeggieConnections)
Cindy Kenney, Doug Peterson
Families can work together to build closer relationships with God and each other through this fun family devotional.
Buckle up for the ride of your life! Invite children of all ages to experience a program they'll never forget. "3-2-1 B.I.B.L.E. Academy!" encourages children to let God change their hearts so that they can discover how to be more like Jesus. Participants will travel through space with four wacky Penguins from the popular Big Idea series, "3-2-1 Penguins!" As they do, kids will learn about the... read more
Junior Asparagus learns that getting money isn’t the only way to become rich.
The Snooze Brothers: A Lesson in Responsibility (Big Idea Books / VeggieTown Values)
Cindy Kenney, Doug Peterson
Junior and Laura find out that being responsible means working with all your heart―and keeping your commitments.
Frog Wars: A Lesson in Perseverance (Big Idea Books / VeggieTown Values)
Cindy Kenney, Doug Peterson
Junior must learn to persevere in order to help God's people from the evil clutches of Dark Visor.
Junior must overcome his own fear in order to save the crew of the spaceship "Jitterbug 2."
On each page of this fun, rhyming, board book shaped like Bob and Larry, kids meet their favorite VeggieTales characters who encourage them to remember that God loves them very much. Bob the Tomato says: “God made you special, but here is the rest… He loves you so much—he thinks you’re the best!” Kids will giggle their way through each page as Bob, Larry, and their Veggie friends share a speci... read more
God is Bigger than the Boogie Man
Cindy Kenney
Based on some of the best-loved VeggieTales videos, this clever collection of bedtime fun shares important, reassuring lessons that every child should know. Filled with fun, colorful, engaging art that all children will love, God is Bigger Than the Boogie Man teaches kids about trust, thankfulness, truth, courage, selflessness, and more. What better way for a child to end the day than with a p... read more
In this silly story about a very Veggie Christmas Pageant, the beloved VeggieTales characters recreate the story of Jesus’ birth—complete with a mooing cow at the stable and pie-eating shepherds and their lambs.
Very Veggie Family Adventure
Mark Whitlock, Cindy Kenney
'Everything you need to experience ten laugh-out-loud adventures designed to help you capture teachable moments and plant truth deep in the hearts of your children is in here. Each adventure includes: · Brand new animation featuring Bob and Larry · A behind-the-scenes look at Jonah—a VeggieTales Movie · Easy step-by-step instructions to a memorable object lesson · Questions to help your family... read more
VeggieTalesPersonalized Mission Possible Adventure Series (6 books)Keelyn's name is inserted throughout each story making Keelyn the hero in each book!#2 - Jellyfish JamThe Seaweedles are in a sticky jam! In this brand-new VeggieTales Mission Possible Adventure, Keelyn can be the brave Mission Commander, leading Larry the Cucumber and Bob the Tomato on a voyage to the bottom of the sea.Their m... read more
How in the World?: Sticker Book (Big Idea Books)
Cindy Kenney
A fun Veggie sticker book about how Godcreated the world―for ages 4-8Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumberinvite kids to join them as they tell the storyabout the seven days of God’s creation.They start at the beginning, wheneverything is dark. Then there’s a big burstof light―and Bob and Larry appear insunglasses! Kids will laugh their waythrough the story as they place theenclosed stickers i... read more
VeggieTales Personalized Mission Possible Adventure Series (6 books) Your child's name is inserted throughout each story making them the hero in each book! #1 - Island of the Care-a-Beans Let the special child in your life be the star in this exciting VeggieTales Mission Possible series with Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber! Every child wants to be the star in their own adventure! In this... read more
Veggie Tales: Slobfather (Mess Detectives)
Veggie Tales
Detectives Bob and Larry hunt for the truth in their messiest case ever as they help Junior learn a valuable lesson. Winner of the Gold Medallion Book Award.
God wants to have conversations with everyone—and that certainly includes kids! Praying the Prayers of the Bible for Kids helps you guide children in talking to God in more ways than just a simple bedtime prayer. Illustrated and designed for children ages 5-8, this engaging book presents simple prayers taken directly from kid-friendly translations of Scripture, focusing on praise, thanksgiving... read more
Princess with a Purpose™
Kelly Chapman
“You became a real princess the moment you prayed and asked Jesus to live in your heart. And since He is the King of Kings and you are His daughter, that makes you His princess.”Princess with a Purpose is all about finding true identity in Christ. It all began when Kelly Chapman’s daughter, Kendall, then four years old, asked, “Mommy, when I grow up I want to be a princess. Where do I go to be... read more
A Warrior Prince for God™
Kelly Chapman
“Once upon a real time there lived a boy named Luke. He dreamed of being a mighty warrior who was brave and courageous. But there was just one problem. He was afraid…”In a lively story about baseball, camping, and facing your fears, author Kelly Chapman helps readers see that, no matter what they are afraid of, they can be strong in the Lord and in God’s mighty power. A Warrior Prince for God ... read more
Princess with a Purpose™ Curriculum Kit
Kelly Chapman
The Princess with a Purpose curriculum includes animated stories, crafts, and music and movement that can be used as both a one-week outreach or a ten-week Bible study program and will fit the resources of any size church, home, or school group--perfect for Sunday school, VBS, or at-home fun with the neighbor kids 3 to 8 years old. Tammie Lyons colorful art adds to the regal message.This curri... read more
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