Danielle Sunshine - Editor

A lifelong reader and lover of story, I have extensive experience editing picture books, middle grade, and young adult novels. I also edit memoir, new adult, and non-fiction. I have a keen interest in developing writers of all levels and helping them refine their craft through collaboration, constructive feedback, communication, and support.

I am the founder of Middle Grade Lunchbreak, a book club of professional writers who discuss books with an eye for craft and the Regional Advisor of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators San Francisco South chapter. I am an adjunct professor of writing at Canada College and a frequent guest lecturer at Stanford University as well other esteemed academic institutions.

In October 2020, I was honored to be chosen by Room to Read as one of ten editors for the Room to Read Peace and Equality Book Collection.

Testimonials:

“Danielle Sunshine is a conscientious and creative editor with a deep knowledge of craft. She is one of those rare mentors who can simultaneously support and challenge an author to bring out the best in a story.”

—Ashley Walker, PhD, MFA, writer

“I think Danielle excels as an editor. She is thorough, precise and inventive. She has a wide knowledge of children’s literature and a superior command of the English language. Whether for line editing or copy editing, I highly recommend her.”

—Jane Houng, MFA and author

“Danielle Sunshine’s vast knowledge and leadership experience in the SF regional chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators means that she is uniquely qualified to edit work with an eye to both the craft and business of writing. Her patience, kindness, and sense of humor make learning from her a pleasure.“

—Lisa Papademetriou, MFA and bestselling author, founder of Bookflow

“Danielle went so far above and beyond what I would expect of an editor. Professionally, Danielle’s edits were detailed and thorough, whilst getting straight to the heart of where my writing could stand to improve. Her editorial letter rang true and reasonable in the areas she identified for improvement, and she clearly explained her reasoning so that I knew not just where but how and why to make changes to my manuscript. I knew as soon as I started reading that she was right on the money with her assessment, and I felt immediately inspired to get back to work on my manuscript and improve it with her directions.

Personally, Danielle really looked after me as a writer. She checked in on my progress more than she was obligated to. Her critique never felt like criticism, it felt like she was genuinely trying to help me become a better writer. She identified and encouraged my existing strengths as a writer, and was considerate in the way she brought up areas for improvement. I genuinely felt like she cared about my work and me as a writer and wanted to see both do better. If you are lucky enough to form a working relationship with Danielle, you will be well looked after.”

—Jarryd Bendall