Overview
As a former children's book publisher and acquisition editor, I helped develop, and edit stories by Canadian and American authors. The stories we published ranged from picture books, middle readers, to Young Adult. YA authors were and are especially interesting to work with because they give me a glimpse into the sensibilities of a generation about to come of age.
With a lengthy experience editing ESL texts. I am sensitive to the specific challenges a writer may have when writing in English as their second language. Sometimes syntax, grammar, and spelling need correction. More importantly, I respect the cultural nuances that endow the writing with a distinct flavor. I consider myself an international editor, having lived in Europe, Canada and the US. Madison, WI, is presently my home. I am an alumna of the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
I edit fiction for all ages with a specialty in African American literary fiction. I am an avid reader of world literature and earned degrees in English Literature and Sociology. Being a dual citizen of Canada and the US gives me a special edge. Authors have told me I am easy to work with, patient and possess a "keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the nuances that make children’s literature captivating." I am a discerning reader, so I expect writers to push beyond their boundaries. I cannot wait to work with you!
“I found Jane to be an insightful and sensitive editor in dealing with my non-fiction work. As I’m a neophyte in fiction, I especially appreciate the fact that she catches issues in characterization, in story structure, in continuity, and in emotional content.”
Richard Boileau, Montreal Author
"I have really been blessed to have you as an editor, Jane. I have recommended you and Reedsy to a group of children’s book authors I zoom with regularly. You are DYNAMITE!"
Mary Jane Overall, Arizona Author
Services
Fiction
Non-Fiction
Languages
Work experience
Reedsy
I edit and help develop children's books, from toddler to young adult. I also specialize in editing ESL fiction and African American contemporary fiction.
Roussan Editeur Inc.
Together with my late husband Jacques de Roussan—author, art critic, and historian—we founded a publishing company. In the first few years, we concentrated on art albums featuring Quebec artists. I formed a children’s book division in 1998 that emphasized and published first-time children's book authors. It was a success. The excellent storylines and quality of production were recognized by the wider publishing industry and the Arts Council of Canada in the form of annual grants. Our books often received excellent reviews in Quill and Quire, Globe and Mail, and other major Canadian newspapers.
C.D. Howe Institute
C.D Howe is a think tank based in Toronto for which I edited policy papers and books targeted at Canadian and provincial government leaders and political influencers.
Optimum Publishing
As a senior editor, I edited and collaborated with authors on non-fiction books, including tourist and parenting guides.
The Montreal Gazette
I wrote book reviews for the weekend edition of The Montreal Gazette. My specialty was contemporary fiction.
Tundra Books/Les livres Toundra
Tundra Books is the oldest publisher of children's books in Canada. It is currently the children's book imprint of Penguin Random House of Toronto. Tundra cultivated a long list of Quebec and Canadian painters who created unique stories for pre-schoolers through the middle grades, accompanied by their art. I edited and worked with designers and artists on many Tundra books, including adult non-fiction, during my tenure there.
Portfolio
JANE has 78 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Olivia D.
Apr, 2024
PinnedOlivia D.
Jan, 2024
PinnedIrit B.
Sep, 2023
PinnedTifini P.
Nov, 2024
Lea S.
Oct, 2024
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