Stephanie Peters

Stephanie Peters – Editor

Developmental editor, book coach, and published author with more than twenty years of experience in children's book publishing. Let's talk!

Overview

Ready to boost your manuscript from rough to rock star? Want an honest assessment by a seasoned publishing professional? Look no further--I'm here for you!

I specialize in children's books of all genres: picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, middle grade and YA fiction, narrative nonfiction, and every other kind of nonfiction. I've worked on adult fiction and nonfiction too, including personal memoirs, epic fantasy, and literary novels. My current and past clients include Disney, Disney/Hyperion, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster, Dutton, Capstone Books, Achieve3000, and WriteByNight.

My editing process begins with me getting super nosy! I want to know what inspired you to write your book, what you love about it, and what you know in your heart of hearts needs revision. With that info, I outline an editorial plan for addressing your concerns and moving you closer to your publishing goals.

I typically recommend at least one round of developmental editing. This is the critical deep-dive stage, where I celebrate passages that blow my socks off and ferret out not-so-great moments. Everything is on the table: characters, plot, dialogue, syntax, consistency, pacing, voice, and so on. I do more than point out problems; I offer specific suggestions for resolving those issues. I can even provide examples of formatting, grammar, and punctuation standards followed by most US publishers.

All work is done electronically using MS Word Track Changes or Google’s editing software. Not familiar with these platforms? No sweat! I’m here to walk you through them--and any other manuscript-related concerns that crop up. We're in this together, after all.

PS: I'm also a writer, so I know EXACTLY how scary it is to hand over a manuscript for outside critique. Trust me: I'll treat your words and ideas with the respect they deserve.
Services
Non-Fiction
Children’s Non-Fiction
Fiction
Classics Fantasy Humor & Comedy Middle Grade Middle Grade Fantasy Picture Books
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 1998 — Present

Developmental Editing: In this early, deep-dive stage, I work with clients to shape their rough drafts into final, ready-to-read manuscripts. I make specific, actionable suggestions regarding plot, character, tone, voice, and readability using MS Track Changes and Google Editing software. In addition, I offer guidance in thorough, point-by-point editorial letters.

Line Editing: I bring fresh eyes to projects nearing completion, helping writers sharpen syntax and correct any lingering issues with consistency, point of view, word choice, and format.

Copy Editing: I clean up punctuation and grammar and smooth out rough patches while remaining true to the writer's unique style and voice.

Book Coach: I guide writers to better writing techniques, offer thoughts on potential for publication, and suggest alternatives to the traditional path to publication.

Writer: I practice what I preach, working on my craft and on freelance book assignments whenever possible!

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