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


- Acquired award-winning picture books


- Developed board, early reader, and picture books projects


- Worked extensively with a broad range of illustrators


- Worked closely with sales, marketing, 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 31 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Kelsey M.

Kelsey M.

Apr, 2024

Michael was a dream to work with! He made the whole process fun, and it definitely was a wonderful collaboration! The quality of his editing was top-notch, and the results were just what I was hoping for. Throughout our time together he answered any additional questions I had and never made me feel like a burden! I am excited to work with Michael again on another piece!
Jennifer F.

Jennifer F.

Apr, 2024

Working with Michael was great! I was very pleased with the outcome and wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again in the future.
Scott M.

Scott M.

Apr, 2024

This is my first time reviewing and I would like to give a shout out to Reedsy for this platform where I could connect and collaborate with my editor Michael J. Secondly, I had a video chat with editor Michael and the first thing out of his mouth was happiness over being able to video chat with an aspiring author. We got into specifics of the Editorial Assessment that he wrote up for me; and w...
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Karen N.

Karen N.

Apr, 2024

Five Stars - A Talented Editor Who Brings Out the Best Working with Michael as the editor for my children's book was an absolute joy. What impressed me most was Michael's keen ability to understand the heart and essence of the story I wanted to tell, while also having a brilliant sense of what would resonate with young readers. His suggestions were always insightful and constructive, enhanci...
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Cera H.

Cera H.

Apr, 2024

I had a great time working with him!

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