Peter McDonnell

Peter McDonnell – Editor

Accomplished editor of Audible Originals, previously edited at McGraw-Hill Education and Time Warner Publishing

Overview

Hello!


I'm a development editor and editor and primarily work with narrative nonfiction. I have a background in educational publishing, magazine writing and editing, and writing and editing nonfiction and scripted content for Audible. Four of my Audible Originals have been selected as "Best Listens of the Year." I bring a strong narrative sensibility to my editing work, foregrounding engaging human narratives, bringing out authentic conflict and tension, strengthening themes, and identifying ways to turn niche and/or challenging topics into stories that appeal to a broader audience.


I'm also a New York Times bestselling author and an Emmy nominated documentary television producer. I have an MFA in creative writing and have taught fiction and nonfiction writing at the college level. I've written and edited for magazines, educational publishers, and documentary television.


My customized approach to editing is to support the writer wherever they are in their process. I'm easy to work with, personable, and most of all, I love a great story!

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Sports & Outdoors True Crime
Fiction
Mystery & Crime Plays & Screenplays
Languages
English (US)
Awards
  • New York Times bestselling author
  • Audible Best Listens of 2019, 2021, 2022
  • Emmy nominated
Certifications
  • MFA in Writing

Work experience

Self-employed

Aug, 2017 — Present

Currently develop, edit, and write nonfiction and fiction Audible Originals that have garnered three Best Listens of the Year awards.

Previously developed and co-produced documentary series for Netflix, Paramount+, and NBC.

Self-employed

Jun, 2007 — Jul, 2017 (about 10 years)

Developed over a dozen TV series in the genres of true crime, cooking, travel, home renovation, science, history, adventure, education, and nature

Edited and wrote scripts for various documentary TV series in various genres

Oregon State University

Aug, 2003 — May, 2007 (over 3 years)

Taught courses in fiction and nonfiction writing

Won a grant to develop and implement a minor in writing degree for Oregon State's ECampus.

McGraw-Hill Education

Mar, 2001 — Jul, 2003 (over 2 years)

Edited science, history, math, health, and language arts textbooks.

Wrote teacher's guides and fiction and nonfiction leveled readers for grades 2 through 5.

Time Warner Publishing Group

Jul, 1999 — Feb, 2001 (over 1 year)

Peter has 2 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Dennis W.

Dennis W.

Nov, 2023

Peter did an excellent review of my nonfiction manuscript, so it was natural to return to him with a section I was thinking of adding. Again, timely, excellent, and to-the-point thoughts about what I’d written that, again, are of tremendous help.
Dennis W.

Dennis W.

Oct, 2023

I entered the realm of nonfiction true crime as a neophyte from nonfiction war and Peter has been a terrific guide forward toward success. His understanding of the narrative helped point me to the needed adjustments to keep moving forward. Highly recommended!

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