As a cultural consultant, authenticity and sensitivity reader with a background in post-colonial literature, I can help fiction and nonfiction writers, game creators and film makers craft richer narratives and storylines, more vivid, natural settings and more nuanced, multi-dimensional themes, characters and imagery based on island life. I can also help with fact-checking and historical research for island-inspired worldbuilding.
As an authenticity reader, I’m a lot like your very own subject-matter expert or cultural consultant. By giving you my personal insight, knowledge and lived experience on a particular topic, I’ll help you accurately capture an experience, culture or identity that’s outside your own.
You will get thoughtful, informed criticism on your framing of a subject, and a review of your work which addresses any inaccurate representations, harmful stereotypes or cultural assumptions. My aim is not to censor or “cancel-proof” your work but to enrich and strengthen it.
“Amanda’s thoroughness and attention to detail as a cultural reviewer for our picture books made us confident to hire her for editorial support on a picture book project. Amanda went above and beyond what was asked of her, using her own extensive knowledge, research, and communication to bring perspectives to the work that truly elevated the project. I was able to hand off a great amount of editorial responsibility to Amanda with full confidence that it would return in better shape from her keen eye and capable hands. Amanda is committed to making each project the best it can be, and it shows in her thoughtful, professional contributions and her work with each member of a team. I would hire her again in a heartbeat for any project that needs attentive support and care.” – Senior Editor, Barefoot Books
