Jane Riordan

Jane Riordan – Ghostwriter

I'm a children's book specialist with nearly 30 years' experience of writing and editing everything from Winnie-the-Pooh to Minecraft.

Overview

I'm passionate about creating wonderful stories for the next generation of readers. With nearly 30 years experience working with authors, licensors and publishers, I have written and ghostwritten countless books for children. I've worked for the likes of HarperCollins, Puffin and Ladybird on classic brands like Peter Rabbit and Winnie-the-Pooh as well as best-selling picture books and fiction titles.

I'd love to chat with you about your ideas and vision and with my insights into how publishing works, as well as my in-depth knowledge of the children's book market, I hope that we could work together to create something that will be both commercial and loved by readers. My process is very flexible, whether that be gently steering your project to completion or getting stuck right in.

However you'd like to work, let me help you make your dream project a reality. Together we can create stories children will never forget.

Services
Non-Fiction
Children’s Non-Fiction
Fiction
Middle Grade Picture Books
Languages
English (UK) English (US)
Awards
  • Silver Practical Pre-School Award
  • LIMA Excellence Product Awards

Work experience

Self-employed

Feb, 2023 — Present

I'm currently working with numerous publishers including HarperCollins, Puffin, Ladybird and Bookoli on young novelty books, picture books, non-fiction and fiction for children.

Penguin Random House

Sep, 2024 — Present

Two days a week I can be found with the Ladybird team at PRH, as editor and writer on fabulous picture books, non-fiction books and novelty books.

Ladybird, Penguin Random House

Nov, 2022 — Feb, 2023 (3 months)

As publisher of Ladybird at Penguin Random House I led a team of editors and worked closely with authors helping them to craft fabulous books for 0-7 year olds. Authors I worked with included Molly Oldfield, Phil Earle and Chris Chatterton.

Egmont, now Farshore, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers

Aug, 2008 — Sep, 2021 (about 13 years)

I worked as editor, writer and publisher across numerous well-known children's brands including Mr Men, Thomas the Tank Engine, Bob the Builder, Winnie-the-Pooh, Minecraft and Babar.

Jane has 14 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Rebecca L.

Rebecca L.

Dec, 2024

Jane helped me re write my children’s story, I don’t know how she did it but, after an hours conversation made my story sound more like me? The project was completed within 2 weeks and Jane really listened to my edits and changes after the first draft that I didn’t need any further editing Am overjoyed with the outcome Thank you so much
Golden P.

Golden P.

Nov, 2024

Jane is an extraordinary writer who exceeded every expectation I had. Her ability to understand and translate my ideas into compelling, polished work is nothing short of remarkable. Jane has a natural talent for capturing the perfect tone and style, making the final product feel authentic and deeply resonant. Her professionalism is outstanding—she communicates clearly, meets deadlines with e...
Read more
Tracey O.

Tracey O.

Oct, 2024

Jane is an exceptionally talented writer who exceeded all my expectations. From the start, she was thorough, professional, and easy to communicate with, making the entire process smooth and stress-free. Jane truly took the time to understand and connect with my vision, and her creativity brought fresh, unique elements to the project that perfectly aligned with my goals. Her writing is polished,...
Read more
Lloyd B.

Lloyd B.

Oct, 2024

Being new to publishing i was looking for someone with great experience and was easy to work with, who could align with my vision. Jane was that person and more. Her writing skills are impressive and her industry history shows through her work and communication. We are very happy with the end result and hope to work together in the future.
Jessica O.

Jessica O.

Sep, 2024

I had a fantastic experience with Jane. I found her writing exceptionally polished and perfectly tailored to my needs. Jane is highly professional and communicative, meeting all deadlines with ease. Her creativity brought fresh, unique elements to my project while considering my overall goals. I found the service excellent and well worth the investment. I wholeheartedly recommend Jane!

Sign up to read more reviews

Create a free Reedsy account to connect with Jane and thousands of other publishing professionals on Reedsy.

Professionals similar to Jane

Get a range of offers by requesting quotes from multiple professionals.

Cyn Balog

Cyn B.

All-genre fiction ghostwriter of 100s of novels, book doctor and author of 11 acclaimed YA novels with Random House, Sourcebooks, and more!

Quakertown, PA, USA

100% reply rate

View profile
Keith Tutt

Keith T.

I'm a Bafta-winning scriptwriter, author of multiple books with mainstream publishers, TV producer and Royal Literary Fund Fellow (UK)

Norwich, UK

100% reply rate

View profile
Jonathan Eyers

Jonathan E.

I have been an editor at Bloomsbury Publishing for over a decade, and am also the author of five books of fiction and non-fiction.

London, UK

100% reply rate

View profile