Kelsey Sullivan

Kelsey Sullivan – Editor

Experienced developmental editor specializing in YA and MG with more than 7 years of editorial experience at Disney Publishing/ Hyperion

Overview

I am a very open and collaborative editor. I have over 7 years of experience with character and plot development as well as world building. I can help you craft a polished and well rounded manuscript. I want to work with you to take your work to the best possible place it can get to.

With nearly a decade in publishing, I’ve had the privilege of shaping stories and strategies for beloved brands and bestselling authors. From acquiring and editing young adult and middle grade novels to managing the full creative process for award-winning titles, I’ve built a career on helping writers bring their best ideas to life. My editorial experience runs the gamut, from developmental edits that strengthen character arcs and pacing, to line edits that polish prose for clarity and impact. Along the way, I’ve collaborated with agents, authors, and creative teams to deliver stories that not only resonate with readers but also stand out in a crowded marketplace.

When we work together, you can expect a thoughtful, collaborative process. I love diving into character-driven YA and middle grade stories, fast-paced mysteries, and anything with a strong emotional core. My approach is equal parts big-picture strategist and detail-obsessed editor: I’ll help you refine your vision, tighten your plot, and polish your sentences until your manuscript shines. Most importantly, I’ll meet you where you are, whether you’re looking for hands-on developmental support or a final pass before submission. Think of me as your creative partner, here to make the writing journey a little less overwhelming and a lot more rewarding.

Services
Fiction
Coming of Age Thriller & Suspense Young Adult
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

The Walt Disney Company

Sep, 2017 — Jun, 2024 (almost 7 years)
- Successfully write the detailed proposal, partner with author to craft story the story and ultimately publish a young adult IP project that received a starred review from Kirkus - Own full-cycle management of 5-10 titles a year, including providing developmental and line edits, ensuring projects stay on deadline and on budget - Develop creative pitches for new young adult and middle grade novels that align to Disney-Hyperion brand - Read submissions and identify novels that align with the Disney-Hyperion overall vision for growth - Create and provide input into editorial design and copy, marketing strategies, and sales strategies to ensure key selling features and Disney-Hyperion brand are reflected in book package - Maintain awareness of competitive marketplace to strive for innovation and creativity in acquisitions strategy - Cultivate relationships with agents, leveraging social media and professional network to expand connections

Portfolio

Better Left Buried

Roach, Mary E.

Disney Hyperion

Developmental Editing
Four Letter Word

McNeil, Gretchen

Disney Hyperion Digital

Developmental Editing
Good as Gold

Buford, Candace

Disney Hyperion

Developmental Editing
Mystery Royale

Cavalancia, Kaitlyn

Disney Hyperion

Developmental Editing
Shampoo Unicorn

Lovett, Sawyer

Hyperion

Developmental Editing

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