Hi, I’m Shelly!
The Short Version
I am a Toronto-based bookworm and exclamation mark enthusiast. I earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts with a double major in English and Media studies, graduating with High Distinction from The University of Toronto, one of the world’s top universities. I later earned my Master of Information, specializing in Library and Information Science. With experience as a librarian, professional book reviewer, and managing editor of an indie press, I’m eager to help authors fulfill their publication dreams.
The Long Version
I’m a Toronto-based book professional versed in editing, the publication industry, and the library sector where I currently work part-time as a public-facing librarian.
I am way too passionate about literature, especially when it comes to general fiction, YA books, romance novels, and graphic novels and manga. I also have an appreciation for a good memoir or finance book.
I graduated with High Distinction from the University of Toronto, one of the world’s top universities, where I earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a double major in English and Media Studies. I also completed my Master of Information (MI) from the same university where I specialized in Library and Information Sciences.
In my first foray on the internet, I started and ran a book blog. This hobby lasted several years and it provided me with unique publishing connections and opportunities. I was able to attend various book conventions as a reviewer including Book Expo America (BEA) and ALA Annual (American Library Association Annual Convention).
In university, I was fortunate enough to be an intern for a NYC-based literary agent where I would read through their slush pile (i.e.,their submissions pool) and manuscripts. I also worked on my own writing and even briefly had my own agent representation.. During this time, I joined a close friend in editing poetry and short stories for a small Toronto-based press she started, The Soap Box Press. This experience allowed me to learn more about independent publishers and poetry, and I eventually became the Managing Editor of chapbooks at the press. I was in charge of poetry and short story chapbook submissions and overseeing this publication process until the press’s close in 2023 – though their consulting arm, Plume Press, remains open.
After completing my master’s degree and exploring the library industry, I decided to step back into the world of books that I love so much, working both behind the scenes as an editor and on the front lines in recommending books to the library customers I serve.
These unique experiences have provided me with a unique outlook both on the publishing experience and literature itself. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with both individuals and organizations over the years with their editing needs. As a result, I have experience in editing a wide range of materials including academic essays, marketing materials, blog posts, novels, and manga scripts. My unique perspective as professional reviewer and librarian allows me to really identify a novel’s strength from a consumer lens.
I also have project management experience based off my years of publishing know-how and I currently work to support a best-selling author & coach as she guides authors through the publication process.
You’re also welcome to learn more about me via my instagram profile. In terms of personality, I often consider myself the human equivalent of a walking exclamation point.
