Jane Riordan

Jane Riordan – Ghostwriter

I'm a children's book specialist with nearly 30 years' experience of writing and editing everything from Winnie-the-Pooh to Minecraft.

Overview

I'm passionate about creating wonderful stories for the next generation of readers. With nearly 30 years experience working with authors, licensors and publishers, I have written and ghostwritten countless books for children. I've worked for the likes of HarperCollins, Puffin and Ladybird on classic brands like Peter Rabbit and Winnie-the-Pooh as well as best-selling picture books and fiction titles.

I'd love to chat with you about your ideas and vision and with my insights into how publishing works, as well as my in-depth knowledge of the children's book market, I hope that we could work together to create something that will be both commercial and loved by readers. My process is very flexible, whether that be gently steering your project to completion or getting stuck right in.

However you'd like to work, let me help you make your dream project a reality. Together we can create stories children will never forget.

Services
Non-Fiction
Children’s Non-Fiction
Fiction
Middle Grade Picture Books
Languages
English (UK) English (US)
Awards
  • Silver Practical Pre-School Award
  • LIMA Excellence Product Awards

Work experience

Penguin Random House

Sep, 2024 — Present
Two days a week I can be found with the Ladybird team at PRH, as editor and writer on fabulous picture books, non-fiction books and novelty books.

Self-employed

Feb, 2023 — Present
I'm currently working with numerous publishers including HarperCollins, Puffin, Ladybird and Bookoli on young novelty books, picture books, non-fiction and fiction for children.

Ladybird, Penguin Random House

Nov, 2021 — Feb, 2023 (about 1 year)
As publisher of Ladybird at Penguin Random House I led a team of editors and worked closely with authors helping them to craft fabulous books for 0-7 year olds. Authors I worked with included Molly Oldfield, Phil Earle and Chris Chatterton.

Egmont, now Farshore, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers

Aug, 2008 — Sep, 2021 (about 13 years)
I worked as editor, writer and publisher across numerous well-known children's brands including Mr Men, Thomas the Tank Engine, Bob the Builder, Winnie-the-Pooh, Minecraft and Babar.

Jane has 22 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Nandini S.

Nandini S.

Feb, 2025

Pinned
Kind, sweet, warm and brilliant! I cannot recommend Jane enough. I cannot wait to work with her again!
Golden P.

Golden P.

Nov, 2024

Pinned
Jane is an extraordinary writer who exceeded every expectation I had. Her ability to understand and translate my ideas into compelling, polished work is nothing short of remarkable. Jane has a natural talent for capturing the perfect tone and style, making the final product feel authentic and dee...
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Jessica O.

Jessica O.

Sep, 2024

Pinned
I had a fantastic experience with Jane. I found her writing exceptionally polished and perfectly tailored to my needs. Jane is highly professional and communicative, meeting all deadlines with ease. Her creativity brought fresh, unique elements to my project while considering my overall goals. I ...
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Beth W.

Beth W.

May, 2025

Jane is a pleasure to work with. She just gets it!
manrup K.

manrup K.

Feb, 2025

Jane was very thoughtful in understanding my vision for my book. She was professional with scheduling a meeting to discuss all the details prior to starting and then completed the draft in a timely manner with a follow up revision as well. I'm very happy with the outcome--thank you, Jane!

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