Overview
New to Reedsy, but many of my previous clients have signed with agents, landed traditional publishing deals, or self-published with confidence. I love working with novels, picture books, and nonfiction.
When you work with me, you benefit from my MFA in Writing (with a concentration in children’s and young adult literature) from Vermont College of Fine Arts. You also get my insights from years of experience as an award-winning author. My goal is to help you reach your goal.
My Editorial Assessments include a multi-page overview letter in which I highlight what works well in the manuscript and what needs work. Topics may include story structure, content balance, voice, character development, narrative arc, theme, point of view, and throughlines. An optional follow-up Zoom call is included.
My Developmental Edit option includes an overview letter, similar to the editorial assessment, plus track change comments and suggestions on the manuscript itself. I often include mini craft lessons, too. An optional Zoom call is included.
Whether you’re looking for one-time feedback or a months-long coaching plan, I’ll be your constructive and cheerleading Yoda. Or, as some of my clients refer to me, your fairy(book) godmother.
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PRAISE FROM SELECT EDITING CLIENTS:
“I couldn’t possibly have written my debut picture book, The Youngest Marcher, without Donna’s guidance. Her expertise in structure, voice, plot development and resolution, setting, and character made all the difference. I highly recommend her critique services; they’re worth every penny.” —Cynthia Levinson
“The time and care that Donna took with my recent manuscript were obvious in the spot-on thoughtfulness of her editorial comments. The changes I made in response to her feedback were the ones that got this story over the hump and out on submission." — Chris Barton
"Donna has a knack for getting in there and helping a writer to narrow their focus, to find the core of their story. Recently on a picture book project, when I was stuck on a plot point, Donna offered feedback that helped me to strengthen my story arc while understanding my character’s motivation better." — Don Tate
Services
Non-Fiction
Fiction
Languages
Awards
- NCTE Orbis Pictus Recommended
- ALA/ALSC Notable Children's Book
- Junior Library Guild Selections
- NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book
- Bank Street College of Education Best Books of the Year list
- Carter G. Woodson Award
- Robert F. Sibert Medal
- Kirkus Best Picture Book
- State book awards
Work experience
Self-employed
Editor:
As a freelance editor, I meet my clients where they are to help them achieve their goals. I provide in-depth feedback about structure, narrative arc, point of view, voice, theme, character development — the whole enchilada.
Coach:
For clients who choose to work with me as a coach, we determine how many months, phone or Zoom calls, and revisions or new projects work best for the writer's schedule and individual goals.
Self-employed
Author:
I write fiction and nonfiction picture books and middle-grade books and am known for choosing topics that resonate and include commercial appeal and curriculum connections. I'm an in-depth researcher and enjoy creative approaches, metaphorical language, and voice. I have also written IP projects for an education publisher. You'll find those listed on my website.
Sample authored books:
2024 -- WINGS OF AN EAGLE: THE GOLD MEDAL DREAMS OF BILLY MILLS, co-authored with Billy Mills, illustrated by S.D. Nelson
STEP RIGHT UP: HOW DOC AND JIM KEY TAUGHT THE WORLD ABOUT KINDNESS, illustrated by Daniel Minter
ABRAHAM LINCOLN'S DUELING WORDS, illustrated by S.D. Schindler
KING OF THE TIGHTROPE: WHEN THE GREAT BLONDIN RULED NIAGARA, illustrated by Adam Gustavson
Self-employed
I have taught writing classes and workshops for the Highlights Foundation, The Writing Barn, Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, The Rochester Area Children's Writers and Illustrators, and directly through my website.
One of the greatest joys of my career is speaking at K-12 schools around the country. In this capacity, I carefully craft presentations to instill in students a love of reading and writing while including curriculum connections that can be mined from my books and the writing process.
Portfolio
Donna Janell has 1 review
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Susan H.
Oct, 2024
