Elsa Sjunneson – Editor

I am an Hugo, Aurora, and British Fantasy Award Winning Editor, and a Nebula nominated game developer. I have been working in the field of editorial since 2011, where I started editing textbooks out of my graduate program at Sarah Lawrence in Women's History.

Over the course of my near decade as an editor, I have worked for Fireside Magazine, Uncanny Magazine and dozens of independent author clients, as well as large publishing houses to develop fiction and non-fiction for successful storytelling.

I believe that refining and sharpening the written word is magic. Every word you use has meaning, and finding the right ones can be hard on your own. Which is why a good and compassionate editor is worth finding. I approach the work of each author I work with from the lens of compassionate editorial.

As a sensitivity reader I work with my authors to understand my perspective as a Deafblind woman, living in a world that isn't always as clear cut as one might expect. I offer practical examples, research and more. I also offer alternative solutions to problematic plot points - I don't leave my authors holding the bag, but I offer them support in solving the problems caused by inaccurate or harmful representation.

As a developmental editor I spend time not just evaluating the text, but the worldbuilding and character development to tell comprehensive and compelling stories.

Unlike some editors, I never want my authors to hand me a jar of their tears when I'm done with their work. I seek to create a supportive collaboration so that you feel ready to send your story out into the world.

Testimonial:

Elsa’s feedback brilliantly refines elements of plot and character. She is fast, thorough, and gives invaluable notes that range from small-detail to big-picture. Her approach is both incisive and encouraging, and guides stories toward becoming their best. I’m so grateful for her help on Blanca & Roja.

–Anna-Marie McLemore, author of When the Moon Was Ours and Wild Beauty