Editor. Writing partner. Coach. Colleague. Ally.
What writing and publication goals can I help you achieve?
Hi. I’m Leslie Castro-Woodhouse, PhD (she/her).
Thanks for stopping by! Like you, I’m an academic who’s experienced the trials and tribulations of the publication process — both journal articles and book manuscripts. I understand the anxiety around putting our work out there, and how easy it is to get derailed by rejection. After a decade working with student writers and finishing my PhD, I spent three years on the “other side of the desk” as a journal editor. There, I learned first-hand what publishers are looking for, and how to help scholarly writers get there. As an interdisciplinary scholar myself, I deeply believe in the value of our work — and that the world needs to hear your voice! Let me help you make your project the best it can be, and share your knowledge with confidence!
Writing Coach: Helping writers learn how to make their language clearer and more impactful, while overcoming stumbling blocks and staying motivated.
Project Manager: Keeping writers on-track with milestones and deadlines specific to their projects.
Sounding board: Providing a safe space for writers to work through their ideas.
Editor: Bringing professional training and experience to evaluating writing for narrative flow and authorial tone, in addition to grammar, spelling and language usage. I offer copy editing and developmental (or structural) editing services.
As your writing partner, I am a…
Colleague: Bringing kindness, encouragement and a sense of humor to a challenging process.
How can I help you reach your goals?
“I need someone I can talk through ideas with.”
We’ve all been there: you’ve gathered lots of material, and have started developing your ideas, but it isn’t clear yet where it’s all heading. You need a colleague to bounce ideas around with, but everyone in your department is busy with their own projects — who else can you ask for their time? That’s where I come in: I can help you clarify your ideas, figure out a theoretical framework, identify gaps in your argument, and provide structure and milestones to keep you on track — and with confidentiality, empathy, and a sense of humor. I can provide feedback over a few sessions, or on an ongoing basis, depending on your needs. Check out my “Services” page for more.
You’ve got some chapters or sections written, but aren’t sure your book or article is really coming together just yet. You need someone to assess your thesis, or your argument, and give you concrete ways to improve its chances of getting published. A developmental edit analyzes thesis and structure, as well as the strength of your evidence and authorial “voice.” While this is best done earlier in the writing process, manuscripts at any stage can benefit from this diagnostic method.
If your project is already well developed, it may only need a review of its grammar, spelling, and reference formatting. This is known as a copy edit: focusing on perfecting the mechanics of your document. See my “Services” page to find a package that fits your needs.
“I’ve got something drafted, but I know it needs work before it’s ready to submit.”
“I need someone to help me keep my project on track.”
You’ve got a draft underway, but distractions keep pulling you away — and there’s nobody to be accountable to. Ever wish there was someone to check in with on the regular, who could also give you feedback on your progress? I can be your project manager, helping you create milestones that keep you moving forward, and keeping your project organized. For a flat monthly fee, you can get access to weekly or biweekly meetings and unlimited document review. Check out my “Services” page for more.
Want to know more? Book a free 30-minute Discovery Session!
Not sure what your project needs right now? Feeling anxious about what still needs to get done, or unclear on your next steps? Let’s talk about how I can provide the support you need to accomplish your goals. Schedule a free 30-minute Discovery Session today!
Why “Origami”?
“Nothing is set in stone. A bird can be refolded into a boat, a fish, a kimono, or any other extravagant vision.”
– Tor Udall, A Thousand Paper Birds