Welcome to Edit Your Words

I am available to help you with your writing projects. Over the past years I have led many a writer through the process of working on a manuscript, writing, re-writing and polishing the final product. I've worked on non-fiction books, articles, memoirs, novels and press releases. I have also written promotional material for my editing clients including cover blurbs, website articles and reviews. You can read a few of their comments in References. Being an editor is a bit like being a coach. I've cheered, urged and bullied writers on to better results. I've laughed with them and passed the Kleenex box when things weren't going well. The telephone pep talks and the writing group encouragement are all part of the game. Please see more of what I offer by clicking on Services

Jan Degrass

"unfailingly encouraging and supportive" "top editor with terrific coaching skills" "knowledgeable, helpful, prompt and reasonable" - CV Curriculum Vitae (pdf). - references

Jan DeGrass leads a Sunday morning writing critique group in Gibsons, B.C.

My Editing Qualifications: Solid Writing Experience 20 plus years of experience in writing books, magazine and newspaper articles as described in my curriculum vitae. Studied Basic Editing and Substantive Editing at the Simon Fraser University Writing & Publishing program. Winner of several major awards: • Winner, Co-operative Business Article Award - 1989 • Periodical Writers Association of Canada - 2nd place -1996 • Winner, BC Travel Writers' Association - peer judges - 2004 • Best Coverage of the Arts - 3rd place, Canadian Community Newspapers Association- 2008 In addition, I have been a finalist in numerous writing contests and shortlisted for the CBC Literary Award. Learned a lot by participating in group critique sessions with author Betty Keller. Edit my own work weekly while writing for the Coast Reporter. Honesty with Tact It is not my goal to crush your dreams for publication. But I will be honest with you, and I present my honesty in a tactful, constructive manner. See my references or review my services for more information. To see an expanded curriculum vitae Jan Degrass Curriculum Vitae (pdf).

"The Arts Columnist" - a painting of Jan DeGrass in writerly pose by Sechelt artist Yzabelle Delisle Milton.

“Reasonable price, quick turnaround”

“Jan DeGrass is certainly a professional!” see references

The Gibson’s Landing Writers