Why I Became an Editor

It was never a choosing. I didn’t dream of being an editor as a child. I just dreamt of working creatively and building things. I learned languages and traveled. I loved people. I loved books and magazines. And I loved food.

There was a spell where I dreamed of being an intrepid writer and editor for Saveur Magazine. I chiseled away at the door that is food media, but books, books, and more books fell into place around me and I found great joy there.

The edge-of-my seat phone calls where I waited patiently for an author to view—for the first time—the cover of their book. The many many keystrokes used to write “brilliant!” in the comments of a manuscript. Each and every moment I cried while reading a passage from an author’s work. To see others victorious, this is why I’m an editor.

I love what I do.

The amazing writers I’ve had the honor to champion have made me a better person and a better writer. I am indeed grateful.

Manuscript Wish List

I look for middle grade novels (followed by YA).

I prefer stories written by BIPOC authors that feature BIPOC protagonists.

I’m open to stories written outside of the BIPOC umbrella, but will still favor work that lifts marginalized voices. 

For Indigenous stories, I prefer those set in modern day—or at least post 1950. Someday, I’ll find a non-stereotypical Native superhero, or an Indigenous explorer of deep space.

I immediately throw out an Indigenous story from my pile if it is not written by an Indigenous writer.

For Black and African American stories, I prefer those that feature innovative and aspirational tales, stories that celebrate Black joy and spark the imagination. I’m looking for stories where young Black kids can see themselves doing great things.

For other POC stories, I'm looking for work that does not lean on stereotypes, and is written with an authentic voice. 

As far as genre, I'm open to any type of fiction. No anthologies and no nonfiction please—at least not presently.

Finally, there are my own personal "loves." I love fun. I love stories that make me all warm and happy when I finish reading them—even if some parts were sad or hard. I tend to perk up especially if humor is used well. Humor can help society discuss and explore many difficult things in the world. Furthermore, I am a geek . . . truly. When stories geek out over food or science, I geek out right along with them. Wakanda forever. I think this is why I love MG or young YA. There tends to be hope, familial or community love and kindness, and imagination galore. 

A note to authors:

In my experience as an Indigenous person, I think sometimes BIPOC writers know that they are having to insert their stories into a predominantly White industry, and they tend to write with an imaginary white executive looking over their shoulder telling them what’s salable or appropriate. I encourage you to leave that behind and write freely.

Your voice matters.