What clients say about Janet
After contributing to three anthologies edited by Janet Hutchinson, I can’t sing her praises highly enough. She has that rare editorial perspicacity which makes the difference between a good story or essay and a brilliant one. She is also gifted with just the right balance of sensitivity and criticism, sharpened by strong teaching experience. Knowing how important a good editor is, I feel lucky to have found Janet! I eagerly await the next instalment of our working relationship.
Jennifer Mills, author of The Diamond Anchor (University of Queensland Press, 2009)
As a first time, ‘green’ and unsure author, my lucky day was when I first met Janet Hutchinson, because if I hadn’t I may not have a book in print and another on the way. Janet’s vast experience, ingenuity and top-drawer editing skills converted a somewhat unorthodox manuscript into a professional piece of work which has now been taken on by a large American publisher. Janet was careful to ensure that the manuscript remained in my ‘voice’ and her sharp insights, amicable nature and gentle guidance encouraged me to persevere. I highly recommend her work.
Trish Clark, Author of Good Night and God Bless (Paratus Press, 2008)
Without Janet Hutchinson my story might still be struggling. On reading the manuscript, she quickly cut to the chase, and soon we were discussing and highlighting the strengths. Janet’s belief in me and my story helped me grow, and to continue writing. Warm, funny, wise, intuitive and a joy to work with – one couldn’t ask for any more in an editor.
Lorraine McGee-Sippel is the author of Hey Mum! What’s a Half-Caste? (Magabala Books, 2009)
I have had a couple of successful non-fiction, self-help books published but my secret desire, always, has been to be a ‘proper’ writer of novels and short fiction. The more I try the more I realise how hard good writing is and how crucial it is to get advice from a skilled, sympathetic and respectful editor. It’s a bonus when you find someone, in this case Jan, who is also a great writer (most editors don’t write). Jan is kind, tactfully alerts me to the problems in my work, efficient and prompt. There is an army of people out there offering manuscript appraisal and editing – it’s a growth industry – so it’s bewildering for newcomers to know who to turn to. Jan is unique in the industry. I highly recommend her.
Robin Barker, Baby Love, The Mighty Toddler, (Pan Macmillan, Australia)