Ciaran Cooper, Writer

Working with Catherine Parnell of Birch Bark Editing has been an absolute pleasure. I presented to her a collection of linked stories that I wanted to get whipped into shape for publication as individual stories and as a collection. Catherine’s responses were always detailed and timely. The manuscript was challenging because the stories span thirty years in the narrator’s life, from early childhood to adulthood, requiring close attention to details of time and place as well as an aging voice. Not only did Catherine guide me through an effective approach to the revision project, but she truly “got” what I was trying to do; this ensured that we stayed true to my vision throughout, which was incredibly important to me.

Catherine’s drive for clarity between and within the stories was instrumental. Her approach to the manuscript was to engage in a series of probing questions that led me down my own path to resolution, while her openness to entertain different approaches allowed me to experiment until I “got it right.” Catherine’s keen eye and massive heart were key to my ability to get my book ready for submission. I look forward to working with her on my novel, and I recommend her to anyone needing the very best in editorial support.

February 8, 2021
Ciaran Cooper, Writer
https://ciarancooperwriter.com/