David Restaino

David Restaino – Editor

Editor with 10+ years experience in short fiction, literary fiction, novellas, and children's books. Let me help make every word count!

Overview

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating on diverse projects, spanning children’s books, literary novellas, and translated literature from global writers, including multiple Pushcart Prize nominees. Additionally, I contribute to two literary magazines—Kitchen Table Quarterly and The Maine Review—which keep me attuned to contemporary fiction trends. My own writing has been featured in publications like Funicular Magazine, Horizon Magazine, and SamFiftyFour. This breadth of experience across genres has equipped me with a unique editorial approach, enriching my ability to provide comprehensive feedback.


One of my greatest jobs in this work is assisting emerging writers and established authors hone their distinct voices. Engaging with writers of diverse backgrounds has cultivated a sensitivity in my editing process, focused on enhancing craft while preserving the author’s unique style.


As a writer myself, I understand the significance of finding the right editor. Whether it is refining each sentence for impact or ensuring a solid narrative framework for your story, res assured, I will approach your manuscript with care and a keen eye for craft, to support your vision rather than stifle it. I believe my role as an editor lies in nurturing your passion to its fullest potential.



My services include:

—Editorial Assessments

—Developmental Edits

—Copyediting

—Proofreading


I can’t wait to discuss your project!




Testimonial:


”To say that David is a professional is to say nothing. During our collaboration, he was not just an editor, but also a teacher, a mentor and a friend. I marvel at his tolerance for details and their explanations. Thanks to him, my manuscript has improved and can now proudly be called a book. I recommend him with courage and confidence, especially to those who try such cooperation for the first time and, like me, are afraid to make a choice.”

—Vladimir Manascurta

Services
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Literary Fiction Picture Books Short Story
Non-Fiction
Humanities & Social Sciences
Languages
English (UK) English (US)
Awards
  • Runner-up Dillydoun Review Flash Fiction Contest
  • London Library Emerging Writer Fellowship 2024/2025
Certifications
  • MFA Creative Writing from University of East Anglia

Work experience

Living Libraries

Jan, 2019 — Present

Oversee the production and editing of children's graphic novel series.

The Maine Review

Jan, 2023 — Present

Evaluate and edit fiction submissions.

Kitchen Table Quarterly

Jan, 2023 — Present

Evaluate and edit poetry and non-fiction submissions.

Suffragette Stories

Jun, 2018 — Dec, 2018 (6 months)

Ran creative writing workshops and edited the anthology Suffragette Stories.

Egg Box Publishing

Aug, 2017 — Aug, 2018 (about 1 year)

Evaluated manuscript submissions for publication.

Strangers Press

Jun, 2017 — Jul, 2018 (about 1 year)

Assisted in the editing and marketing of the Keshiki series.

Portfolio

Descending Up

Manascurta, Vladimir

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
A Strange Journey

Wynne, Harold

Copy Editing Proofreading
Editorial Assessment
Isaac Abrams

Estevez, Joseph

Copy Editing Proofreading
In the Flow of Time

Isidore-Depina, Wiseline

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
My Roommate is the Worst!

Heather Rae Beauchesne

Copy Editing
When Lena Was Little

Jelena Radusinovic

Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
The Gobbler

E.G. Creel

Copy Editing Proofreading
The ABCs of Money

C. Uzokwe, Dr Henry

Copy Editing
Copy Editing Proofreading

David has 45 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Michael P.

Michael P.

Oct, 2024

Just as good as the first time. For the second time I've used David for developmental and copy edits, I've found him timely, personable, appropriately challenging, gives an incredible amount of feedback, and has vastly improved my writing. I'd pay David as an editor rather than any craft training! Looking forward to the next time.
Eva C.

Eva C.

Sep, 2024

I don't ever want to publish anything ever again unless David looks over it first.
Alex M.

Alex M.

Sep, 2024

David was brilliant – he went above and beyond the initial copyediting request, offering valuable structural suggestions as well. (This was particularly appreciated as it confirmed some of the ideas I had been considering.) I also opted for a one-on-one meeting, which was quite helpful for discussing the editing approach and gaining additional tips (eg regarding submissions), especially since i...
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Sharon V.

Sharon V.

Aug, 2024

David's feedback on my manuscript was constructive and useful. David was flexible about timing and approachable for any questions. I hope to work with David again in the future.
Josef B.

Josef B.

Aug, 2024

Perfect for anyone just starting out. Hope to work with again.

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