Call for New Projects 2019-2020, Marginalized and Emerging Authors

One of my professional goals is to help marginalized authors get through the barriers they might be running up against in the publishing industry, and give a boost to newer authors starting their careers. It can be hard to take those first steps and learn the ropes, and I can help with that.

I’m a multiply marginalized and emerging author myself, and an editor of four+ years of experience working with other marginalized authors in the small press and self-publishing fields, so there’s a lot I can pass on!

Newer authors, as well as authors with less money, may not feel like seeking out a freelance editor is right for them. This may be so, as authors pursuing trade publishing deals should be able to expect excellent editorial service as part of their work with a publishing house.

However, self-publishing is a valuable option and often the best for some, and career needs generally may extend beyond the traditionally available services. I offer a number of tools to authors:

• Sensitivity, content, and line editorial.
• Artistic ethics consultation, which means helping authors plan their works from the earliest stages to emphasize artistic responsibility and integrity and develop the best approach to challenging book concepts. Please note that while I proudly perform sensitivity editorial at various stages of writing on a number of topics (summarized in link above), and I always edit with care for what is responsible to audiences of color, I am white and should not be consulted as a sensitivity editor regarding race (though I would be happy to recommend sensitivity editors of color!).
• Plot consultation and brainstorming, a “book doctor” approach which can make it much easier to troubleshoot issues you’re having in the drafting stages,  or even learn to plan your books if you’re interested in taking a more “plotter” or mixed planning/pantsing style to writing.
• Working with resistance, for writers who are dealing with blocks, writing burnout, or otherwise struggle with certain parts of the writing process. This aid is customized to your desires and needs in a non-prescriptive fashion.

Considering how important working with newer and disadvantaged authors is to me, I also try to make my assistance as accessible as possible. I typically offer a discounted rate to authors with difficulty paying for freelancers, including authors who live under the poverty line or on fixed incomes. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you have about this, as many authors find at least some level of consultation more affordable than they first imagine. Even if we can’t work out an arrangement to your satisfaction, I may be able to help you connect with resources, sensitivity readers, or community support that would be of use to you.