Elizabeth Dougherty – Editor

Turn your expertise into a compelling nonfiction book that reaches the readers who need it most. If you're a subject-matter expert who wants to write an advice-based (prescriptive ) nonfiction book that transform lives, let's work together to make that a reality.

Reedsy editor Marisa and I developed a proprietary writing methodology for experts to plan, write, and publish advice-based nonfiction, which we've also captured in a book. Our approach emphasizes key foundational steps many authors inadvertently miss, especially when it comes to book planning, conceptualization, and structure. Work with me one-on-one as I guide you through our methodology to take you from book idea to polished manuscript. You will write faster and more easily, with less stress and more confidence.

From the idea stage to a solid outline, book proposal, query letter, and first to final drafts, I leverage my 35+ years as a developmental editor and book coach on 100+ books to ensure your manuscript receives high-quality, professional editing. Together, we’ll define, refine, and amplify your voice and story — in a way that saves you time, effort, and money.

I specialize in advice-based nonfiction, also called prescriptive nonfiction. (I do not edit memoir.) My topical specialties include health, leadership, and all things parenting. I also help authors think broadly about their branding messaging and how to extend their manuscript content to blogs, conference presentations, and online courses.

As the executive editor of the lifestyle, parenting, and children's division at book publisher Weldon Owen, I developed companies' content strategies and managed books from idea to publication. I launched book publishing programs for Parenting and Working Mother magazines, and ran programs for big-name brands such as Gymboree, Pottery Barn Kids, The Body Shop, and Hallmark.

Since 2015, I've worked with BabyCenter, the world’s largest parenting website, reaching 50 million parents. My coverage of maternal depression won two Digital Health Awards. I also write for Rare Parenting, HealthCentral, and healthcare content marketing agencies. I wrote the Klutz book String Art.

A longtime Silicon Valley resident, I previously served as executive producer at a Disney-owned consumer website, helped launch a vacation-itinerary startup, and am chief content officer of the startup Positive Caregiving.

I have a master's degree from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.