Nonfiction Book Editor — Narrative, Clarity, and Flow

About the Project A nonprofit is seeking an experienced freelance editor to review and improve the narrative of our next book. We need someone who can strengthen the manuscript’s organization, readability, and impact while preserving the authors’ voice and practical approach. This assignment includes developmental and line editing, beyond basic proofreading. Scope of Work Review the manuscript and recommend or make edits to: Improve the flow of ideas within chapters and throughout the book. Strengthen chapter openings, transitions, and conclusions. Identify repetition, gaps, unclear explanations, and unnecessary material. Refine wording, sentence structure, grammar, and consistency. Make examples, stories, and guidance more engaging and useful. Maintain a consistent, approachable voice appropriate for the intended audience. Flag factual claims or references requiring verification, along with any inconsistencies in terminology. Discuss significant structural changes with the authors before implementing them. Do not introduce unsupported facts, quotations, or examples presented as real events. Deliverables An initial editorial assessment summarizing the manuscript’s strengths and recommended improvements. An edited Microsoft Word manuscript with Track Changes and comments explaining substantive recommendations. A clean version incorporating approved edits. One follow-up revision round addressing consolidated author feedback. Ideal Qualifications Demonstrated experience editing nonfiction books. Strong developmental and line-editing skills. Ability to preserve an author’s voice while improving clarity and engagement. Experience with career guidance, education, business, or professional development content is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Word Track Changes. Clear communication and reliable turnaround. Project Structure We prefer to begin with a paid sample edit of one chapter. If the working relationship is a good fit, we will proceed with the full manuscript under agreed milestones. Manuscript length, delivery dates, and final scope will be confirmed before the full assignment begins. This project covers editorial work; cover design, interior formatting, and publishing setup are separate. Please Include in Your Proposal A brief description of your relevant book-editing experience. Two examples of comparable projects, including your role. Your approach to improving narrative while preserving the author’s voice. Your proposed fee for a paid sample chapter and pricing approach for the full manuscript. Your availability and estimated turnaround. Any use of AI tools in your editing process - Manuscript content may not be uploaded to external AI services without our prior written approval. Confidentiality The manuscript is unpublished and confidential. All manuscript materials and paid editorial work will remain the property of the author and the author's organization. To respond, please start with the word CAREER.