Sirah Jarocki – Editor

Sirah has been a freelance editor since 2012, primarily working on books and articles for young readers. She specializes in picture books and middle grade novels, but she also works on graphic novels, children's nonfiction, and select books for adults if they're in an area of interest. Before becoming an editor, Sirah was a kindergarten teacher, which gives her a unique ability to offer helpful criticism and explanations. Sirah makes a strong effort to stay on the cusp of popular children's books to help you create a book that kids want to pick up and won't be able to put down.

Sirah particularly likes working with first-time authors and young writers. While she specializes in developmental editing and editorial assessments, she enjoys copyediting that helps books clearly say what they're trying to say. Her goal is to help you create a book that both feels like your own and still maintains the highest standards of writing. She loves inclusive stories, particularly those focused on people with disabilities, and she has a hard time saying no to a book about social justice or environmental protection. Sirah is patient and enthusiastic and willing to offer thorough guidance to help you move closer to publishing with confidence.

Sirah's particular interests include poetry (particularly books with really sharp poetic form), mental health, service animals, queer community and nontraditional families, crochet, chihuahuas, octopuses, dirigibles, and the healing power of nature. Sirah believes that every child should be able to find themself in a book, to which end, she loves getting books that focus on minority experiences, whether that minority be racial, cultural, physical, psychological, or religious. Sirah strongly prefers a well-written book over a speedily-finished one, and while deadlines are often important and motivating, they shouldn't feel stressful.

*Please note that I do not offer proofreading for novels (though I will proofread picture books).

My goal is to create good literature that I'd be proud to have my name on, and I charge accordingly.