Editing The Rabbit in the Moon: Fine-Tuning Words and Illustrations
Now that I’ve completed the final version of The Rabbit in the Moon, it’s time to begin the next critical phase,fine-tuning the text before professional editing.
After seven drafts and months of research, rhyme adjustments, and character development, this stage feels like a deep breath. The story is there, it just needs polishing.
Collaborating with My Illustrator
Several stanzas still have alternate versions, and I want to review each one with Rod, my illustrator.
In a children’s picture book, the golden rule is show, don’t tell. The art carries as much narrative weight as the text, and when done well, it can even replace lines of description entirely.
Rod and I are going stanza by stanza, identifying where an illustration might show the action so that the verse can stay light, musical, and focused on rhythm. If he can visually convey what I’ve described in words, we’ll cut that line.
This collaboration ensures that every word in The Rabbit in the Moon earns its place, and every illustration enhances the storytelling.
Choosing the Right Editor
Once Rod and I finalize the text, I’ll send it to my former boss and close friend, Rob. He’s an English major from Northwestern University who has lived in New York City, Chicago, and Paris, a combination that gives him an exceptional understanding of how English is used across cultures and regions.
Before writing picture books, I worked in professional athlete representation, managing endorsement portfolios for NFL and NBA players. During that time, I drafted countless contracts and press releases that Rob would edit.
He would red-line every sentence, question every word choice, and send me back to rewrite. I used to walk out of his office frustrated, but always smarter.
That experience taught me to value precision, tone, and rhythm, skills that directly apply to writing for children.
Why This Editing Path Feels Right
Most authors hire freelance editors through traditional publishing channels or online marketplaces. My process is a little different, but it’s deeply personal.
I trust Rob not only because of his education but because he understands how I think. He’s edited everything from athlete contracts to corporate statements for some of the biggest names in sports, so he brings a sharp eye for clarity, pacing, and tone.
Having someone like that review The Rabbit in the Moon feels right. It’s not just about grammar, it’s about voice.
Final Thoughts
This editing stage feels less like rewriting and more like refining a sculpture, each word, stanza, and line polished until the story shines.
Soon, The Rabbit in the Moon will be fully edited and ready for layout. Seeing it come this far makes every draft, revision, and sleepless night worth it.
