So glad to meet you!

HOW CAN WORKING WITH ME BE HELPFUL FOR YOU?

Have you ever thought that writing a book for children would be fun to do?

Do you have a great idea for a story but absolutely no idea how to get started?

Perhaps you already have a rough draft of a manuscript but are unsure if it is ready to submit - or you need extra help with the muddy middle.

New writers often need help with brainstorming ideas, the writing process, editing, and researching the market. The help of an experienced book coach may be just what you need to make great progress.

Experienced writers will appreciate the partnership a book coach provides with getting your manuscript polished and submission-ready.

I will help you with time management, craft resources, content editing, feedback, and the submission process while being your biggest cheerleader every step of the way. With one-on-one support, I will… Equip, Encourage, and Empower you as you work on your project! I believe great coaching begins with curiosity which is why I stay actively engaged in ongoing professional development. I am constantly learning as much as I can about the craft of writing as well as the evolving publishing landscape. This ensures that my guidance reflects current industry practices and trends, as well as how stories connect with today’s readers.

Not everyone needs a book coach. Some creators are comfortable going through the process on their own. However, if you think you can benefit from more comprehensive support with professional feedback and insight, I would love to help!

Review the services I provide and let’s partner on your writing journey!

MORE ABOUT RONA

I’m Rona Shirdan – children’s author and book coach.

In the past, I have volunteered on a crisis hotline, sold toys in a department store, and for over 40 years managed/coached employees in a Fortune 100 company.

Today, I am an author, beta reader, and I am an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach. I work with Boyd’s Mills (formerly The Highlights Foundation) as their Customer Experience Coordinator and Ambassador. I served as the Co-Regional Advisor for the Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of SCBWI .

In my free time, you will find me reading mystery novels and children’s books (I have a special love for picture books – fiction AND nonfiction)! I live just outside of Philadelphia with my husband, Andre, and calico cat, Lola. We have two adult sons, Aaron and Michael. I have a dislike for snow, and a fondness for prairie dogs, sloths - and especially giraffes.

My passion is collaborating with storytellers who write for children, motivating them and inspiring them to use their creativity and perseverance to get their best work done.

If you write for children of any age and in any genre, allow me to partner with you as you create, revise, and submit.

I look forward to celebrating your work and your successes!

Wangari Maathai: The Mother of Trees

Written by Rona Shirdan / Illustrated by Henry Ezeokeke

The KidLit Deconstruction Zone Podcast

Join Mel, Morgan and Rona as they drill into the craft of children’s literature.

TESTIMONIALS

“Sometimes the ideas are there, but the ending isn’t! Working with wonderful picture book writing coach, Rona Shirdan, helped me get that manuscript over the finish line! Sometimes we just need a solid outside voice to speak into our work. ”
— Patrice Gopo

Interview with Dr Ellyn Jo Waller talking about how getting information from Rona helped her in her writing journey

My Artist-in-Residency Experience at the Highlights Foundation

Posted on November 30, 2016 by Rona Shirdan

Meet Rona Shirdan

January 2, 2023 by CanvasRebel