Amy Kerr

Amy Kerr – Editor

Nonfiction sub + copy editor, formerly at HarperCollins. I specialize in Lifestyle, Memoir, and Children's books (gen. market + Christian)

Overview

Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Nashville-based editor and ghostwriter.

I started my career as an editor for HarperCollins, specializing in four-color products like children’s books, gift books and lifestyle books, and branched off into freelance writing and editing about ten years ago. In addition to my Big 5 publishing clients, I’ve been fortunate to work with talented folks like NYT bestselling thriller author J.T. Ellison, founder of the Simplified brand Emily Ley, and women-owned production company Four Eyes Media.


My favorite projects involve helping new and seasoned authors solve problems in their manuscripts, editing (and, c’mon, recipe testing!) cookbooks, adapting books for young readers, working on children's books in any stage of development, and leaving a silly comment or two in a serious copy edit. I have an ear for capturing (and maintaining!) an author's voice.


And FYI: I speak the language of the General Market and Christian Market fluently.


As you’re reading this, I’m probably reading something too. Either that, or I’m making tacos in my tiny kitchen, petting a neighbor's dog on a walk, or road tripping to another new-to-me place. There is definitely a cup of tea nearby.

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Children’s Non-Fiction Christian Non-Fiction Cooking, Food, Wine, & Spirits Inspirational Self-Help & Self-Improvement
Fiction
Middle Grade Picture Books
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2015 — Present

I specialize in developing and editing various forms of media, including children's books and nonfiction books (both text-heavy and highly designed), as well as podcasts.

I offer these services:

— BOOKS. Writing, ghostwriting, developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, proofreading, brand development and management

— PODCASTS. Development, producing, script writing, research, marketing

— COPYWRITING. Product descriptions, book cover and jacket copy, web copy, bios, résumés

HarperCollins

Feb, 2011 — Dec, 2014 (almost 4 years)

- Created and managed projects across three imprints (Tommy Nelson children's books, Thomas Nelson Gift, Zondervan Gift) by communicating with authors, art directors, designers, and publisher while maintaining budget and deadlines

- Liaised with co-edition publishers, overseeing contract negotiation, product development, and timely product delivery

- Recruited and managed editorial freelancers

Portfolio

Pumpkin Day at the Zoo

Meissner, Susan

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