About Joanne Starer

Career

I began working toward my editing career at a very young age, doing internships in the publishing industry during high school. I started out at Harris Publishing at the age of sixteen and then spent some time writing for Wizard Magazine online. From there, I moved on to Marvel Comics. Eventually, I returned to Harris Publishing as an editorial assistant. Along the way, I did various freelance writing jobs for magazines and literary publications but found that editing was what I truly loved.

After earning my master’s degree and making a few forays into marketing work, I settled back into editing as a freelance editor and consultant, handling manuscripts and projects of all types.

Currently, I edit books for BookSurge Publishing, iUniverse, and AuthorHouse. Past clients include Walter Foster Publishing and Skinner House Books. I have edited fiction and nonfiction, including children's books, self-help books, inspirational works, and all types of fiction. I also do ghostwriting work and have written children's books, biographies, and inspirational works. However, I feel my specialty is working with first-time authors and those who need or want a little more guidance than traditional editors provide.

I previously served on the board of the Editorial Freelancers Association and spent some time co-chairing the association’s membership committee.

Education

I hold a Master of Arts in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research, as well as a BA from the same institution. I have taken comprehensive courses in children's literature, characterization, progressive fiction, and journalism, as well as a number of editing and writing courses.

Please contact The Read Line if you have any questions or would like to discuss your project.