My client wanted to write a book based on a six-month class she taught. She had recorded all of her teachings, and I transcribed them by topic. When I printed out the transcription, it was clear it would have been a very long book, overwhelming for my client and her readers. We decided instead to turn each topic into a shorter book, and connect them in a series.
For each book, I reviewed the transcription to organize the topics into book chapters. My client took that basic manuscript and added to it, elaborating on ideas and adding examples. I read through her updated manuscript and added suggestions for areas she could develop further. I prompted her for specific examples that would clarify topics and engage her readers.
We did several rounds of structural and developmental editing, followed by line editing and copyediting. My client is an outstanding speaker with engaging colloquialisms. My goal was to preserve her unique voice and expressions, to help her connect with her readers in the same way she connects with students in her classes. As an editor, the feedback I enjoyed most was when friends of my client told her, “Your book sounds just like you.”
When the manuscript was completed, we sent it to a team of beta readers for their feedback. My client and I made additional changes. Then, I formatted the manuscript for self-publishing and guided my client through the self-publishing process, creating a paperback book and Kindle ebook.
I edited three more books for this client and helped her self-publish each one. The plan is for more books in the future.
Here is my client’s testimonial:
“I have known Janet in many capacities over the past 18 years. First of all, she is BRILLIANT! I have worked with her in many different capacities and she always exceeds what is asked or expected of her. Not only has she edited and published all of my books but she has been transcribing for me for the past 12 years. She is gifted at bringing a publication to the table and assisting others in navigating all of the obstacles in doing so. I can’t say enough about what an asset she has been to myself and Transformations Ministries. If you know you have a book/blog, etc. inside of you – she’s your girl! She will cheerlead you right into publication and you’ll enjoy every minute of it. Professional but relatable!” — Kerri Johnson, Founder, Coordinator & Spiritual Director, Transformations, Inc. (aka Kerri Johnson Ministries); Author of Are You Feeling Stuck?, Symphony of Heart & Mind, Intense Fellowship, and I Feel Everything!
Janet Eriksson 