With over 20 years’ experience, spanning both sides of the publishing desk, Jennifer Crosswhite brings invaluable perspective to the editing profession. As a former Big 5 managing editor who’s also written over 20 books and coached hundreds of authors to publication, she understands what editors, authors, and publishers each need. She specializes in brain science and story structure, teaching editors how to diagnose and solve storytelling problems at the deepest level—transforming their ability to elevate any manuscript.
From Reader to Editor: Mastering the Fundamentals of Fiction Editing
Ready to launch your fiction editing career but not sure where to start? In this comprehensive workshop, Jennifer Crosswhite demystifies the editing process and gives you the confidence and tools to begin working with authors professionally. You’ll learn the different types of editing (developmental, line, copy) and when each applies, how to spot and fix common manuscript problems, what authors really need from their editors (hint: it’s not just grammar fixes), and how to give feedback that inspires rather than deflates. Through hands-on exercises with real manuscript samples, you’ll leave with a clear editing workflow, a toolkit of diagnostic questions, and the confidence to take on your first fiction clients. Perfect for aspiring editors, beta readers going professional, or anyone who loves stories and wants to help authors shine.
The Science of Story: Why Great Fiction Works (And How to Fix What Doesn’t)
You know when a story isn’t working—but can you explain why? More importantly, can you fix it at the root level, not just treat the symptoms? In this advanced workshop, Jennifer Crosswhite reveals the brain science behind every “rule” of storytelling. You’ll discover why readers’ brains crave specific patterns, why certain plot structures feel satisfying while others fall flat, and how cognitive science explains everything from character arc to pacing. Understanding the “why” transforms you from an editor who follows rules to one who knows when and how to break them brilliantly. We’ll dive deep into the neuroscience of reader engagement: how the brain processes story, why it bonds with certain characters, and what triggers that “can’t put it down” response. You’ll learn to identify the difference between surface problems and wound-level issues, diagnose why readers disconnect at specific points, and provide solutions that address core story problems rather than cosmetic fixes. Through advanced manuscript analysis, you’ll practice identifying cognitive dissonance in character development, finding the missing neurological triggers in “boring” scenes, and understanding why some beautifully written books still fail to engage. For experienced editors ready to level up their diagnostic and problem-solving skills.