Tenyia Lee

Tenyia Lee – Editor

Experienced editor to bestselling authors at W. W. Norton and Macmillan—and now you! I specialize in creative nonfiction and YA.

Overview

I strongly believe that everyone has something valuable to say. My goal is to help you get your story and message out into the world, and to have it reach your readers through clear, engaging prose.

I began my career as a teacher of writing, and that has defined my approach as an editor. Every editing project begins with a conversation in which I ask you about your goals and concerns. Knowing what you want out of the editorial experience and what you hope to accomplish in your writing, I can then approach the piece itself with not only my industry expertise, but a firm grounding in your voice, style, and message.

As an editor, I don't shy away from messy first drafts, mid-process pieces that need some developmental heavy lifting, or press-ready books just looking for a final polish. No matter where you are in the process, I'm happy to listen, read, and help you make your writing shine.

My special passion is for stories told by authors of color and memoirs of lives lived daringly. In short, stories that expand our view of our world and what it could be.

I look forward to working and writing with you soon!
Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Sports & Outdoors
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Cultural & Ethnic Fantasy Historical Fiction Women's Fiction Young Adult
Languages
English (US)
Certifications
  • BA in Creative Writing, Stanford University
  • MA in English Literature, Stanford University

Work experience

Self-employed

May, 2018 — Present

W. W. Norton & Co

Jul, 2012 — May, 2018 (almost 6 years)

Macmillan

Jun, 2011 — Sep, 2011 (3 months)

Stanford University

Sep, 2009 — Jun, 2012 (over 2 years)

Portfolio

The Trading Desk

Ginesin, Brad

Local: A Memoir

Machado, Jessica

"Are You a N****r or a Doctor?": A Memoir

Stallworth Jr. MD MBA, Otto E.

Charlotte's War

Graham, J. Lawrence

Come November

Lord, Scott

Beyond the Indigo

Taylor Thomas, Tina

A responsive, refreshed, and media-rich revision of the best-selling anthology in the field The most trusted anthology for complete works and helpful editorial apparatus. The Tenth Edition supports survey and period courses with NEW complete major works, NEW c... read more
A responsive, refreshed, and media-rich revision of the market-leading anthology of American literature. The most-trusted anthology for complete works, balanced selections, and helpful editorial apparatus, The Norton Anthology of American Literature features a... read more
The best-selling book that demystifies academic writingThis book identifies the key rhetorical moves in academic writing. It shows students how to frame their arguments as a response to what others have said and provides templates to help them start making the... read more

Tenyia has 63 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Megan F.

Megan F.

Nov, 2024

Tenyia exceeded my expectations in every way! She was professional and caring in her approach to my memoir, which was particularly important to me due to the sensitive subject matter. She has an incredible eye for detail, and she ensured my manuscript was as clean as possible. Because of her, I feel confident in publishing my memoir! Highly, highly recommended!
Laura M.

Laura M.

Oct, 2024

Working with Tenyia was wonderful - she helped me focus and streamline my book proposal and query letter with thoughtful and timely feedback. Her industry knowledge and editing skills were both very helpful. I highly recommend her!
Meridith C.

Meridith C.

Oct, 2024

This is the very first time I have used a development editor. Tenyia was an amazing and respectful. She helped me navigate pain points and quelled any anxiety I had. With her guidance she helped me view my work objectively and did everything she could to help me maintain my voice. I can not imagine how I would have gone through this intimidating process with anyone else. I can not express how m...
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Carlos P.

Carlos P.

Oct, 2024

Tenyia was great. She read my book in a short time frame and came back with thoughtful suggestions about how to improve and craft my story.
D J.

D J.

Jul, 2024

Excellent editor with invaluable insight and patience, especially when dealing with new authors!

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