Hannah Elnan – Editor

My offerings include editorial assessment and developmental editing of nonfiction book proposals and fiction and nonfiction manuscripts. (Note that I only provide query letter review as an add-on for clients who book me for an editorial assessment or developmental edit.)

I love helping writers take their book proposals and manuscripts to the next level. My approach to editing is both intuitive and analytical—I read very closely with an eye to what the target audience wants out of your book, keeping your goals in mind the whole time. I have deep knowledge of the publishing market in many genres and lots of experience putting together an appealing nonfiction book proposal.

I've edited New York Times bestsellers, long-time regional bestsellers, award-winners, million-plus copy sellers, apps, and books that have kickstarted publishing trends.

As a nonfiction editor, I enjoy working on a wide range of subject matter but have a soft spot for family memoir, narrative nonfiction, and LGBTQ+.

In terms of fiction, I enjoy literary, book club, and speculative fiction, and have an affinity for sapphic stories and women's voices.

I am NOT going to be a good fit for children's books, diet books, religion, or conservative books.

AI policy:

I guarantee that my edits are 100% human. I don't use generative AI in my editorial work or communications.

I believe that generative AI use should be disclosed, consensual, and should not be used to replace human creativity. Since generative AI draws on already-published material, the potential for plagiarism with generative AI output text is too high for my comfort level, so I won't edit projects with text generated by AI. I'm ok with authors using AI in other ways, such as spellchecking and grammar programs, and research (though bear in mind that AI is not a reliable research assistant.)

Many agents and publishers also require disclosure of any uses of AI and prohibit it in creative work. Although copyright laws are still in flux, AI-generated material may not be deemed “original” to you and is not copyrightable.

If you've used AI in the creation of your work, please disclose the specifics of that use to me when initially describing your project. No editorial feedback or margin comments you receive from me may be entered into generative AI tools.

Testimonials:

"Hannah has an astute eye, infinite wisdom, and such a warm heart. I cherish my fortune at having her as an editor."

—Sonora Jha, author of the critically acclaimed HOW TO RAISE A FEMINIST SON

"I ended up with a tight, dynamic, and more insightful memoir, and learned a lot about writing in the process."

—Erica Bauermeister, author of HOUSE LESSONS: RENOVATING A LIFE, a WA State Book Award Finalist and Real Simple Best of the Year