Writer · Author · Editor

Creation and publishing of books, educational resources, and marketing materials for the children’s market.

About Me

I am a BC-based author, freelance writer, editor, and self-publishing consultant. Living on nature’s doorstep on Vancouver Island, where the forest meets the sea, fuels my love of the natural world. Children’s books are my favourite art form as they offer the opportunity to create a visual experience through words and illustration; the story is my canvas. I write stories for children first, for the adults who read with children, and also for those who have never outgrown their love of a good children’s book. My own curiosity and love of storytelling inspires me to write non-fiction stories that help children to discover and explore the world around them. With my first picture book, An Edible Alphabet: 26 Reasons to Love the Farm, Tricycle Press/Random House I developed a particular expertise and interest in telling stories related to food, farming and agriculture. For non-fiction I combine a lively and engaging writing style with facts, photographs and illustrations to capture the heart of a story and help kids grasp why we need to care about a topic and how it affects them.

My roots are in traditional publishing, where for 25+ years I’ve honed my skills first in a variety of roles at some of Canada’s most esteemed trade publishing houses and then as an independent publishing professional, writing coach, freelance writer and author. I am the co-principal of Behind the Book (behindthebook.ca), a self-publishing consulting company and works with authors and companies to self-publish Fiction and Non-fiction books – including children’s picture books – of the highest standards.

Services I Offer

WRITING

A compelling story and narrative experience can take many forms, from a traditional book, a series of worksheets, a poster, booklet or game to visual art and content across the Web. I write stories, both fiction and non-fiction, primarily for early and emerging readers. Each story is told through a combined use of fun facts, history and engaging narrative. I also create non-fiction narratives and educational resources for use in classroom and teaching settings on a variety of subjects that meet curriculum guidelines for early and middle years.

CONTENT CREATION

Do you have a product or message that you want to share with children and/or educators? I can help you create stories that will capture the attention and imagination of young readers. I collaborate with designers, illustrators and photographers to develop the best possible style, design and narrative for you. Some information is best delivered as an individual, or series of handouts, or posters, while other times it may take the form of a longer narrative, such as a book, video or digital/online platform. I work with clients to determine their needs and resources, and the best way to reach and engage their audience.

EDITING & BOOK COACHING

I work with clients to evaluate and edit their existing information and resource materials, both in print and online, and offer recommendations for developing new content and projects. For authors, I offer critiques of manuscripts, from picture books and graphic novels to YA. Whether the goal is to self-publish, or to submit to an agent or publisher, I work with you in developing and fine-tuning your manuscript and guide you through the publishing process from manuscript evaluation, project development, developmental and structural editing, design, and production.