Michelle Sumovich

Michelle Sumovich – Editor

Developmental fairy godmother! Traditionally pub'd kids book author & editor specializing in picture books. Creative & precise. Lemme at it!

Overview

Picture books are a very exact format, where every word counts and all story elements are under the microscope. As a traditionally published author of kids books (Penguin, HarperCollins, Sourcebooks), I'm practiced at developing pacing, voice, and heart that catch the attention of publishers and resonate with young audiences.

I have been freelance editing books across all kids formats for over five years. I'm diversity and equity trained and have a knack for honoring your intentions and amplifying your unique style by making it even more surprising, fresh, and marketable without compromising the integrity of your work.

I'm an assertive and kind editor and I've been told I have the "unique ability to inject humor, mystery, and the exact pieces your story has needed all along." I'll give you both line level and big picture feedback, drilling down to the details when necessary, and using a light touch when the work calls for your creative autonomy. My specialties are absurdity, humor, and rescuing authors from the malaise of revision.

I would love to be your creative collaborator and help you get your book sold! Please reach out!

Services
Fiction
Picture Books
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2020 — Present
Closely read manuscripts (picture book to adult) and provide creative suggestions to further develop the work. Clients receive line level margin notes as well as an in-depth editorial letter with big picture thoughts and actionable suggestions on story elements (character, pacing, plot, etc). Follow up call available upon request.

Self-employed

Jan, 2015 — Present
Develop and sell original children's texts to major publishers. Work includes board book, picture book, graphic novel, and middle grade.

Portfolio

Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono

Tolin, Lisa

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
A History of Underwear with Professor Chicken

Holt, Hannah

Roaring Brook Press

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
Alpacas Here, Alpacas There

Tillotson, Carrie

Beach Lane Books

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
B Is for Bananas

Tillotson, Carrie

Flamingo Books

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Laolao's Dumplings

Liu, Dane

Godwin Books

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
How to Be a Rock Star

Tolin, Lisa

G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Friends Are Friends, Forever

Liu, Dane

Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment

Michelle has 1 review

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Donna G.

Donna G.

Oct, 2025

I had the pleasure of working with Michelle as my developmental editor, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience. She provided clear insights and thoughtful comments that helped me see my manuscript in a fresh light. Her suggestions were both practical and inspiring, giving me concrete...
Read more

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