Substantive Editing
From idea to polished manuscript, get expert guidance to shape your story, strengthen your structure, and prepare your work for the next stage.
Toronto · Editor, ghostwriter, agent
The story is in there.
My job is to help you get it out.
Thirty years of substantive editing, ghostwriting, and representation — including Educated, Playing with Fire, and Driven.
Tell me about your book
100+
National bestsellers edited
20
Titles that hit number one
2
Back-to-back Canada Reads champions
“I had the pleasure of working with Jim Gifford as my lead editor on my book The Difference in Being Different. Jim is hands down one of the best editors in the world. His thought, care, and industry know-how are unprecedented. He has the unique ability to see the better version of a book.”
“Jim has a keen eye and a discerning instinct for theme, structure and clarity in storytelling. Among his many gifts as a collaborator, I especially appreciated Jim’s respectful collegiality as we worked through the unavoidable anxieties.”
“Jim Gifford is a wizard. His magical powers, kind words, patience and expertise were the sole reasons I wrote and finished writing my book. Without him, I would still be staring at my computer.”
“I had always considered the possibility of writing a book based on my policing career. It was Jim who convinced me to do it, and what followed was a phenomenal example of professionalism and mentoring. Jim edited the text and made suggestions to fine tune the narrative.”
“My book, For The Love of a Son, has made an impact on many families dealing with addiction. It wouldn’t have were it not for Jim’s fine touch as editor. He turned my family’s story into a publishable work.”
“Working with Jim Gifford on The Liar’s Playbook was one of the most demanding and rewarding experiences of my writing life. The material was emotionally complex and structurally challenging, and Jim navigated both with rare intelligence and care. He never flinched from the difficult parts.”
“Jim Gifford stands out as one of Canada’s finest and most experienced editors of nonfiction, a big tent that includes historical books, investigative journalism, memoirs, and essays. He has a talent for spotting and nurturing new ideas and new writers. He’s a writer’s editor par excellence.”
“As a former hockey guy turned author, the challenge of writing a book was immense. Jim was relentless in guiding me through the two-year process. His guidance, his editing, and his overall knowledge of the industry was instrumental in the book’s success. I’m forever grateful.”
“Jim Gifford makes your book better. Working with him was can best be described as smoothness joy. He made the editing process an enjoyable one and my book a much better one.”
1 / 9
All testimonials
How we can work together
Ghostwriting
Turn your ideas into a professionally written book, with proven support behind bestselling titles and a collaborative, results-driven approach.
Editorial Services
Gain clarity and direction with expert manuscript assessments and strategic insights to help you refine your book and choose the right publishing path.
New
Agenting
Ready to discuss taking your manuscript to book publishers? Why not reach out? I am now representing new clients for potential publication in Canada, the US and the UK. Contact me at hello@jimgifford.ca.
Book Coaching
Move your book forward with personalized coaching, actionable feedback, and industry expertise to help you write with confidence and purpose.
Workshops
Learn, grow, and get inspired through engaging writing workshops designed to guide individuals and groups through the writing and publishing journey.
About
I am a non-fiction book editor with thirty years of experience in shaping bestsellers and award winners. At Gifford Creative, I offer writing services to help you achieve your ambitions, whether you’re publishing a family history, preparing a proposal for an agent or publisher, or publishing your major non-fiction work.
Learn More About meTell me about your book
A short note is enough. I read every one myself.