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 69 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Jane M.

Jane M.

Oct, 2024

Michael was a joy to work with. He was an excellent communicator and a source of inspiration for me to finish the story with confidence. I would work with him in the future without a doubt and I also appreciated his positive demeanor along with his professionalism.
Debby G.

Debby G.

Oct, 2024

Michael was super professional and super effective and efficient. Really enjoyed working with him and would recommend!
Whimsical M.

Whimsical M.

Oct, 2024

Michael was friendly and responsive and even though we had a few setbacks due to health issues or unexpected events, he kept up his side of the project and I received what I needed to move forward. The way he laid out the expectations was also very helpful because I know what exactly I was getting and when I should expect it. I had a positive experience with Michael and he helped me to clarify ...
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Karren M.

Karren M.

Oct, 2024

I was nervous as a first time author submitting my work for someone, other than my family, to review. Michael was so supportive and kind. His comments were thought provoking and helped me to finish this children's picture book that I had shelved for over a year. He was prompt, professional, and encouraging. Does it get any better than that? I can honestly say that working with him has been a t...
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Dean R.

Dean R.

Oct, 2024

He waa very clear on the services he provides in the beginning along with set dates to do the work. He was also very supportive and gave me ideas to improve my story and make it stronger. I will definitely be using him again for future books.

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