So – my picture book bio text was perfect, right? Alas, no. But my editor knew just what to do. With comments like the ones below, she began to whip my text into shape. Yes, it can be a bit painful, but my editor was wonderfully gentle and tactful. And these comments may help all of us as we edit and tighten our work.

"...I worry that the story might be trying to do too much..."
"...focus more on Noah's teaching experience, frustration with America's lack of resources, commitment to bettering the American education system..."
"...streamlining might help reveal a smoother, more economical narrative.."

More of her comments next time. Now I need to go tighten my current ms!