Jessica Vitalis – Editor

My experience includes nearly two decades studying craft, four books published with Greenwillow/HarperCollins, multiple awards and accolades, and a successful track record helping other writers reach their publishing goals.

I am known for providing detailed, comprehensive assessments that delve deep into the hearts of stories and include elements such as structure, plot, theme, pacing, character development, voice, and more. I pride myself on providing actionable feedback that often includes craft tips and tools tailored not only to elevate the current project but also to level up my clients' future work. As a writer myself, I recognize that hiring an editor is a big investment and comes with considerable vulnerability from an emotional perspective; being trusted with your story is an honor that I will not take lightly.

Because my analysis often identifies big picture opportunities for improvement, my feedback is best suited for writers willing to tackle large revisions in order to maximize their story's potential.

When you reach out, please provide a brief history of your writing journey and your goals for your current project.

Please note: my expertise is MG and YA novels 30,000 to 100,000 words in length.

Testimonials:

Jessica is one of the best editors I know in the children’s book world. She’s whip smart, clever, caring, communicative, and above all else demands deep and thoughtful analysis of all aspects of my work. Jessica pushed me and challenged me to see my work as a professional…as a result of her guidance, I emerged from the editing experience feeling like I could handle anything as a writer. Her words of advice as well as her notes in my work have served me for every manuscript I’ve completed…I continue to be grateful for Jessica’s expertise. -Author Kit Rosewater (Amulet and Delacorte)

Jessica’s thoughtful, in-depth approach to developmental editing is pitch perfect! Her insightful questions and comments struck right to the heart of the lingering issues in my book and gave me an easy springboard to dive back into rewrites. I can’t recommend her highly enough! ~ Author Cory Leonardo (Aladdin)

Jessica has a keen eye for both big picture and line level edits which took my manuscript from barely there to query ready! Her knowledge of story structure paired with a natural instinct about what works were invaluable. ~Award-winning author María José Fitzgerald (Penguin Random House)

Jessica has a particularly keen eye for overarching story issues that are difficult for writers to see when they’re close to their own story. She delivers feedback in an exceptionally kind and thoughtful manner which makes it easy to digest...she's been instrumental for me in identifying the root causes of problems in my books and in brainstorming ways to resolve those problems. I highly suggest working with her! ~Juliana Brandt (Sourcebook and Aladdin)

Note: Jessica supports equity and inclusivity in books and beyond. She will not work with anyone who discriminates against marginalized or underrepresented people, either on the page or off.