Melinda Rathjen, Editor and Author - Melinda Rathjen, Editor and Author

ABOUT ME

I’m an experienced children’s book editor offering freelance services to publishers and authors. I love working with stories and the people who create them. With 20+ years working in book acquisitions and development, I combine sharp editorial instincts with a friendly collaborative spirit and an ability to invite my inner child out to play.

I live in Nashville, Tennessee, with my human, our dog, and a cat-supervisor who has her work cut out for her.

Coaching & Consulting

I can help support your publishing journey, providing advice, project guidance, and more.

Consulting
Book coaching
Project management
Beta Reading

Editing & Proofreading

I have 23 years of experience editing books for all ages.

Developmental Editing
Line editing
Copy Editing
Proofreading

Writing & Ghostwriting

I’ve written more than a dozen children’s books. I am available for:

Writing picture books, board books, and more
Ghostwriting
Copywriting

Rates are available upon request. I’d love to hear about your project, and we can chat about what kind of help makes the most sense for your needs.

Select Books I’ve Written

Love You S’more Illustrated by Rob McClurkan Published in 2022 by WorthyKids

The Snuggle Is Real Illustrated by Kristyna Litten Published in 2021 by WorthyKids

Dozers Don’t Doze Illustrated by Gareth Williams Published in 2022 by WorthyKids

Love You Snow Much Illustrated by Megan Higgins Published in 2023 by WorthyKids

Wreck the Halls Illustrated by Gareth Williams Published in 2022 by WorthyKids

Somebunny Loves You! Illustrated by Cee Biscoe Published in 2023, 2019, 2015 by WorthyKids

L is for Love (and Lion!) Illustrated by Amy Husband Published in 2019 by WorthyKids

T Is for Thanks (and Turkey!) Illustrated by Amy Husband Published in 2019 by WorthyKids

S Is for Sharing (and Shark!) Illustrated by Amy Husband Published in 2020 by WorthyKids

Select books I had the privilege of editing:

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Chat with Me

Please feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss your project,
ask me a question, or engage in a debate about:
a) pineapple on pizza,
b) ketchup on hot dogs, or
c) any other delicious controversies.

GET IN TOUCH