Kai Ben Shahar

I’m Kai, a queer developmental and stylistic editor for Fantasy, Science Fiction, speculative fiction, LGBTQ+, and YA. With a BA in English Literature, editing courses at Simon Fraser University, and six years of traditional and non-traditional experience in the field, I can help you achieve your storytelling goals, whether you’re an aspiring author or an established writer!

Getting feedback on your work is not always easy, which is why I focus on providing honest, kind, constructive comments along with plenty of suggestions and problem-solving techniques to help you refine and improve dialogue, character development, plot, world-building and pacing. I take your needs and wishes into account and always ensure to preserve your unique voice.

As a detail-oriented, sensitive and analytical editor coming from the world of literature, I can help you create memorable and compelling worlds that come to life for the reader!

In addition, I have also edited published academic articles and papers in social sciences, arts, literature, gender studies, Jewish Studies and Culture, LGBTQ+ studies, and history. As a trans non-binary, queer and Jewish professional, I also do sensitivity reading on these topics.

Whether you need developmental/substantive editing, copy editing, proofreading, stylistic/line editing, manuscript evaluation, beta reading or sensitivity reading, I can help!

I am always happy to talk about making drawing and painting, analyzing books, and foraging for wild edible food.

Genres and particular interests: sci-fi, fantasy, speculative, YA, LGBTQ, magical realism, general fiction, graphic novels, short stories, cozy mysteries, nature, foraging, gardening, wildlife, ecology, queer literature, literary theory, academic articles, book outlines, Judaism, Jewish culture and history, art, psychology.