KEMI

Children's Book Beta Reader

Author Central Station • Freelance

Aug 2025 - Present • 11 mos

I help children's book authors get the honest, detailed beta reading their manuscript needs before it reaches real readers. My focus is mainly picture books and early readers, where I pay close attention to age-appropriateness, vocabulary level, pacing, and how a child (or the parent reading aloud) would actually experience the story from start to finish. I read each manuscript the way a target reader would, then put together clear notes on what's working, what might confuse a young reader, and where the emotional beats could land stronger. I also flag anything that feels too advanced or too simple for the intended age group, since that balance matters so much in children's writing. Authors usually come to me when they want a second pair of eyes that understands how children read and listen, not just general feedback. I keep my notes practical and specific, so writers walk away knowing exactly what to revise and why, rather than vague comments that don't help them move forward with their manuscript.

Manuscript Editor, Middle Grade Fiction

Motion Design School • Freelance

Jun 2025 - Present • 1 yr 1 mo

I provide developmental and line editing for middle grade manuscripts, working with authors to strengthen the bones of their story before it goes any further. This usually starts with a developmental pass, where I look at plot structure, pacing, character arcs, and whether the voice genuinely sounds like it's written for 8–12 year old readers rather than adult fiction dressed down. From there, I move into line editing, tightening sentences, fixing tense or syntax issues, and improving flow so the writing feels smooth and age-appropriate throughout. I pay close attention to how middle grade readers process information, since their attention spans and reading levels are very different from YA or adult audiences. I also watch for consistency in character behavior and world details across chapters, which is easy to lose track of in longer manuscripts. My goal with every project is to help the author's own voice come through more clearly, not to rewrite their story into something unrecognizable, just sharper and more readable for the audience it's meant for.