Michael Joosten

Michael Joosten – Editor

Creative and dynamic children's book editor with 15 years experience at companies such as Scholastic Books and Random House Children's Books

Overview

With vast experience as an editor and best-selling author in children's publishing, I pull from my extensive background in theater. I utilize my experiences with musicality (rhythms, phrasing) and script analysis (story building) to help shape texts into dynamic, voice-driven books that range from the comedic to the matter-of-fact. Each project requires individual tailoring, and I draw on my unique perspective and experience to help create engaging board books, picture books, early readers, beginner chapter books, and branded content.


Over the course of my career, I have:


- Managed and edited iconic publishing programs that included The Berenstain Bears, Richard Scarry, and Little Critter


- Edited titles in the Dr. Seuss and Little Golden Books publishing programs


- Worked directly with Mariah Carey, Julianne Moore, John Cena, and Danielle Steele on their picture book projects


- Acquired acclaimed and award-winning picture books


- Developed commercially successful board books, early readers, and picture books


- Worked closely with sales, marketing, design, and publicity to assist in positioning books for optimal success



Services
Non-Fiction
Children’s Non-Fiction LGBTQ Non-Fiction
Fiction
Humor & Comedy LGBTQ Fiction Picture Books
Languages
English (AUS) English (CAN) English (NZ) English (SA) English (UK) English (US)

Work experience

Self-Employed

Apr, 2019 — Present

Random House Children's Books

Sep, 2010 — Mar, 2019 (over 8 years)

Scholastic Books

Sep, 2007 — Apr, 2010 (over 2 years)

Michael has 100 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Elizabeth N.

Elizabeth N.

Apr, 2025

Michael was a joy to work with, and really found his comments and edits on point.
Keith D.

Keith D.

Mar, 2025

Michael demonstrated great empathy with the storyline and was both encouraging and supportive throughout.
Dave B.

Dave B.

Mar, 2025

I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to benefit from Michael's insights and expertise. His editorial critique of my picture book was thorough and incorporated multiple actionable suggestions for improvement. I appreciate that Michael was able to share both his overall impression of my piece...
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Gregory M.

Gregory M.

Mar, 2025

I needed an editor's eye on my picture book story, his tweaks, suggestions, encouragement, and additions were exactly what I needed. He was timely, affordable, and positive.
Meroe M.

Meroe M.

Mar, 2025

Michael Joosten delivered an editorial assessment of my picture book for toddlers. His thoughtful reading and detailed input were encouraging. He gave a clear sense of what works and why, and what could work better with suggestions for how. Very helpful and highly recommended!

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