Vesela Simic – Editor

As a child of immigrants, I fell in love with the English language early—I wanted to speak and write it well. That early passion deepened into a lifelong love of learning and led me to a graduate program in English literature at the University of Chicago. Studying the elements of good writing and engaging storytelling taught me that good writing isn't just about correctness—it's about clarity, voice, and connecting with readers. That philosophy has guided over twenty years in publishing, from copyediting Folio Gold Award-winning issues of Yoga Journal, to producing quarterly magazines for the Institute of Noetic Sciences and the Association for Research and Enlightenment, and editing books for Sounds True.

These days, I work primarily with authors and publishers to develop transformational and creative nonfiction books on personal growth, psychology, holistic health, spirituality, and religion. I bring expert editorial skills and genuine curiosity to every project. My clients tell me I offer insightful suggestions, make their writing sparkle, and that I can help birth any book in its most organic form.

What I love most about editing is the collaborative thinking—digging into a manuscript with an author to discover what they're really trying to say, then helping them say it in a way that resonates. Whether you need developmental editing to shape your narrative, line editing to refine your voice, or meticulous copyediting to polish every sentence, I approach the work as a partnership. Your vision drives the project; I'm here to help you realize it.

"Vesela is an outstanding editor. Her suggestions and recommendations are always thoughtful, she keeps everything on schedule, and she can improve your writing with a gentle touch. I highly recommend her!"

—Dr. Richard J. Davidson, founder of the Center for Healthy Minds and coauthor of BORN TO FLOURISH: How to Thrive in a Challenging World (Simon & Schuster's Avid Reader Press, 2026)

"Working with Vesela was a joy. She greatly improved our manuscript with her insightful suggestions and keen eye. Communication and deadlines were clear and smooth, and her work was top-notch. "

—Cortland Dahl, PhD, BORN TO FLOURISH: How to Thrive in a Challenging World (Simon & Schuster's Avid Reader Press, 2026)

"Vesela is an excellent editor. Her immersion, close reading, and thoughtful suggestions will help birth any book in its most organic form."

—Mark Nepo, THINGS THAT JOIN THE SEA AND THE SKY: Field Notes on Living (Sounds True)

"Vesela's editing is magical. She brought a wealth of information, life experience, and editing smarts to my book, making it sparkle. Everyone should be so lucky to have her wave her magic wand over their writing to make it sing and find the right audience!"

—Caroline Miller, GETTING GRIT: The Evidence-Based Approach to Cultivating Passion, Perseverance, and Purpose (Sounds True)

“Most careful editor ever! Brings insight to the text and a commitment to accuracy, continuity, and visual harmony.“

—Mirabai Bush, coauthor with Ram Dass of WALKING EACH OTHER HOME: Conversations on Loving and Dying (Sounds True)