We are seeking an experienced proofreader and copy editor for a children's educational publication consisting of:
Short adventure novel (~9,000 words)
Companion activity and worksheet section (~3,000 words)
Total word count: approximately 12,000 words
The book is intended for upper elementary and middle-grade readers (ages 8–12) and combines educational content with storytelling and learning activities.
Scope of Work
Copy Editing
Correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization
Improve sentence clarity where needed without changing the author's voice
Ensure consistency in terminology, formatting, and style throughout the manuscript
Check dialogue punctuation and quotation marks
Standardize number formatting, dates, and headings where appropriate
Proofreading
Identify and correct typographical errors
Detect missing words, repeated words, or formatting inconsistencies
Review page elements, worksheet instructions, and answer sections for accuracy and readability
Ensure consistency between story content and related activities
Educational Content Review
Verify that worksheet instructions are clear and age-appropriate
Check that activity questions align with the story content
Flag any ambiguous wording that may confuse young readers
Deliverables
Edited Microsoft Word document (.docx)
Track Changes enabled throughout the document
Comments only where clarification from the author is required
Brief editorial summary outlining:
Major categories of corrections made
Any recurring issues noticed
Any items requiring author review
Style Requirements
US English
Maintain the author's existing tone and storytelling style
Preserve character names, educational facts, and worksheet structure unless errors are identified
Focus on copy editing and proofreading rather than developmental or structural editing
Ideal Candidate
Experience editing children's books, educational materials, homeschool resources, or middle-grade fiction
Strong command of US English grammar and punctuation
Comfortable working in Microsoft Word with Track Changes
Attention to detail and consistency across both narrative and educational content
When Applying
Please include:
Relevant editing experience
Examples of children's, educational, or fiction projects you have edited
Estimated turnaround time for a 12,000-word manuscript
Confirmation that you can work with Track Changes in Microsoft Word