Overview
There is nothing better than turning a juicy, bold idea into a book proposal or book. There is nothing more exciting than helping someone to shape and realize their own story.
Yes, I'm talking to YOU.
32+ years ago, as I began my publishing career, I had the very good luck to learn the ropes from the best editors, publicists, managing editors, and sales people--and to witness and work with a parade of famous authors and celebs. From day one, I knew I loved the business of the origin of an idea to the many drafts that come before the editor cries, "Done!"
Years later, as a Creative Director and marketer of children's books, I had the luxury of working with and promoting some of the most recognized kid authors in the biz: R.L. Stine, Ann M. Martin, Dav Pilkey, K.A. Applegate, J.K. Rowling, Walter Dean Myers, Jon Szcieska, David Kirk, and so many more. In time, I embarked on my own career as an author. Some 120+ books later (written and published for Scholastic, Disney, Grossett/Penguin, Macmillan, Capstone, Heinemann, and others), I have learned the art of book-making from all angles. I’ve written in a wide range of formats: creating original fiction for American Girl magazine, working with Mattel on their global publishing guide, writing a Goosebumps video game, and developing materials for digital education platform Micro Rangers at the American Museum of Natural History in NY.
Middle Grade and Young Adult books are my sweet spot, but I know how to write for all ages, at all levels, and in many different genres. Ghostwriting has been a natural evolution for me. Because of my versatility, I have been able to land for-hire writing gigs for numerous high-profile, licensed kid's books. On the adult side, I worked with a famous TV celebrity on a wedding book, where I interviewed and wrote about 80+ brides-to-be and learned everything there is to know about tulle. I also worked with an executive coach on his book The Connection Challenge, after helping him to revamp his web site, clarify his brand, and to realize his vision.
"Laura was huge help.... She acted as development editor and muse, and provided excellent writing support. I recommend Laura highly to anyone who has a creative vision and wants to get it out into the world. I could not have done it without her." --Alan Samuel Cohen
How can I help you write the book YOU need to write? My years of experience with a wide range of best-selling authors (and my own editors and agent) have given me a broad view of the business as well as keen insight into the art of storytelling. It's all about voice--and I will help you to find yours and amplify it when crafting your book for children or adults.
Services I am available to offer: Ghostwriting, Proposals, Short-form Content, Developmental Editing, Market Research, Brainstorming/Outlines.
Let's chat! Let's brainstorm! Let's make your book come true!
Services
Non-Fiction
Fiction
Languages
Certifications
- B.A. Columbia University, NY, NY 1989
Work experience
Self-employed
In the children's market, I have worked on numerous high-profile, licensed kid's books. On the adult side, I worked with a famous TV celebrity on a wedding book, where I interviewed 80+ brides-to-be. Most recently, I worked with an executive coach on his book The Connection Challenge, after helping him to revamp his web site, clarify his brand, and to realize his vision. Over the years, I have created numerous corporate presentations, written executive speeches, and helped authors to hammer out the details of their own book projects so they could secure an agent or publisher.
Self-employed
Author of more than 120 children's books for publishers including Disney, Scholastic, Macmillan, Grossett, and others.
Recent freelance and other publishing projects with the following clients:
American Girl magazine
American Museum of Natural History
Capstone Publishers
Heinemann
Scholastic Inc.
Open Road Integrated Media
Scholastic Inc.
Full time and part time work with all divisions of Scholastic Inc. over this time period, including promotion of major paperback and hardcover series including The Baby-sitters Club, Goosebumps, Magic School Bus, Clifford, Captain Underpants, Animorphs, and Harry Potter.
Self-employed
I can help you to define your brand:
Develop website content
Create logo and positioning copy
Develop ongoing blog material
Create marketing initiatives
Produce materials to support your brand, including brochures or cards
Brainstorm and develop book content
Create speeches and presentations
Portfolio
Laura has 10 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Shemin F.
Apr, 2021
Shirael P.
Jan, 2021
Michael F.
Sep, 2020
Tanya Z.
May, 2020
Michael F.
Apr, 2020
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