Lorilee Craker
Writer, author, editor
Grand Rapids,MI
Summary
Accomplished publishing pro with a strong foundation in writing and editing. Committed to meeting deadlines and fostering collaboration, ready to share experience in mentorship and relationship-building to contribute to meaningful editorial projects.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Mixed Media Editor
The Banner
Grand Rapids, MI
03.2019 - Current
- Wrote, edited and proofread articles such as book and movie reviews and larger features to ensure clarity, coherence, and a compelling mix of content.
- Collaborated with a roster of reviewers to choose which media to review out of thousands of pitches.
- Developed good relationships with publicists from a dozen Christian and mainstream publishers.
- Managed editorial calendars, working well on deadline and ensuring timely publication of the magazine.
- Mentored and cultivated a team of reviewers, sharing expertise in media editing tools and best practices.
- Contributed creative ideas during collaborative brainstorming sessions to enhance magazine quality and recognition.
- Coordinated with fellow editors to evaluate and approve content proposals that enhance magazine's thematic focus.
Author
Various Publishers
Grand Rapids, MI
04.2000 - Current
- Wrote 16 traditionally published, non fiction books on a wide spectrum of topics, from baby names to Britney Spears, Heaven and the Amish.
- Collaborated with editors to refine manuscripts, ensuring clarity and consistency in storytelling.
- Conducted extensive research to support factual accuracy and depth in written content.
- Mentored emerging authors through workshops and writer's conferences, fostering creativity and improving writing skills.
- Established strong relationships with publishers to streamline manuscript submissions and negotiations.
Freelance Writer and Editor
The Grand Rapids Press, Griffiti Magazine and Many Others
Grand Rapids, MI
01.1996 - Current
- Wrote reviews and features for the Entertainment section of The Grand Rapids Press for 17 years.
- Edited full length non fiction and fiction manuscripts, ensuring clarity, and thematic coherence.
- Interviewed individuals by phone, video chat and in-person to write feature stories, such as profiles of the Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team.
- Adapted writing styles based on different platforms such as social media, blog posts, and print materials.
- Conducted in-depth research to ensure accuracy and relevance of articles across various topics.
- Collaborated with editorial teams to refine content strategies and maintain consistent voice across platforms.
Education
1987-1991 - Communications
Moody Bible Institute
Chicago, ILSkills
- Writing and Editing
- Reliability
- Creative thinking
- Deadline driven
- Editorial management
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Excellent communication
- Public speaking
- Relationship building
Accomplishments
Contributed to the editorial content and production of 77 Banner magazines and counting.
Wrote 16 traditionally published books and cowrote 4 self-published books.
"Through the Storm" hit #5 on the New York Times bestsellers list.
Nominated for an Audie Award for Best Audiobook, Personal Development category, for "Money Secrets of the Amish"
Wrote hundreds of book, TV, movie, and podcast reviews
Edited 10 self published books.
Timeline
Mixed Media Editor
The Banner
03.2019 - Current
Author
Various Publishers
04.2000 - Current
Freelance Writer and Editor
The Grand Rapids Press, Griffiti Magazine and Many Others
01.1996 - Current
1987-1991 - Communications
Moody Bible Institute