“As a first-time novelist, I needed several important things from an editor: someone who was supportive as well as challenging and viewed our work as a collaborative process; someone who had really good intuitive as well as technical skills; and someone who understood how to structure this process. I found all three in Celene Adams, and the experience was immensely helpful, allowing me to develop a more cohesive, consistent and provocative novel. Along the way, I developed better writing skills and a real sense of the importance of an editor that goes way beyond making corrections. Maybe of the greatest importance was feeling Celene believed in me and my work, and feeling that I wasn’t as alone in attempting to realize a dream.”- Robert Hirsch, Ph.D., psychologist and author of Caged: One Woman’s Journey from Cult Abuse to Freedom.
“I could not believe the amount of time and one-on-one attention Celene gave me during the process of writing my book, ‘Why my Cup? How I Overcame Growing Up in a Crack House.’ Not only did Celene interview me at length, she frequently called to confirm details, ask new questions, and suggest insightful passages of reflection. She is also a vivid scene painter and has a keen sense of how to weave literary flair from factual material. Celene was able to activate memories and extract emotions from me that I didn’t know I had─until there they were on the page. When I read my story as penned by her hand, I found it as compelling as if I were reliving it right then and there. Writing a memoir is an intensive and exacting process, and I could not have accomplished it without Celene’s expert listening, interpreting, structuring, writing, and editing skills.” – Uhmbaya Laury, author of Why my Cup? How I Overcame Growing Up in a Crack House
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“Celene interviewed me about my wardrobe styling business for her new ‘A Whim and a Prayer’ article series. She had heard about me from one of my styling clients and wanted to learn more about what I do, how I help people, and how I got started in my field.
Any anxieties I had about the interview process were quickly alleviated upon meeting Celene. She immediately put me at ease and I enjoyed the time we spent together. Rather than drilling me with quick fire questions, she allowed the conversation to evolve organically and peppered her questions in as they were appropriate. She followed up the interview to thank me and get my sign-off on direct quotes for the article.
The finished article far exceeded my expectations! Celene presented me and my business in a very positive light and accurately conveyed not only what I do, but also the unique background and perspective which I bring to the table. I proudly shared the article with my personal and professional networks and now have it prominently displayed on my business website. I plan to continue to use the article as a marketing tool to help prospective clients learn more about me and what I have to offer.
Celene is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with. Her writing skills are impeccable and you will definitely be happy if you hire her to write your business story!” – Debbie Roes, Wardrobe Stylist
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“Celene has uncommon editorial intuition and restraint.” – Jeff Mitchell, Managing Editor Thomson Professional Publishing
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“I’m thrilled with the piece!” – Susan Hallack, hair dresser and floral arranger
“Celene has an insatiable appetite for the quirky [business story].” – Meagan Kamerick, reporter, the New Mexico Business Weekly
“Celene Adams, winner of ‘Best Article in Business Category 2007’ from the Society of Professional Journalists has signed on with Aspen to coauthor 10 content-rich articles on pertinent business, safety, and HR topics. We are honored to be working with Celene. Her exceptional work, integrity of content, and professionalism is a natural fit for our team.” – Steve Thompson, President, Aspen Risk Management
“I’m a legal writing instructor, and Celene is the person I trust with editing my [columns]. I can honestly explain to my students how helpful it is to have a second pair of analytical eyes going over a piece. Her comments are always on-target and helpful. And I relish her suggestions for revision.” – Robert DeKoven, professor, University of Western California Law School
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“I’ve not worked with a more qualified editor. Celene is truly talented.” – Joseph Peña, editor, Gay & Lesbian Times
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2007
Society of Professional Journalists
San Diego Chapter
This award was based on excellence in journalism. The story, ENERGY PIONEERS, was the cover story for the first edition of Pacifica Magazine. See judges’ comments below.
Client: Pacifica magazine
Category: Magazine, Business Story, Energy Pioneers
Managing Editor: Helen Chang
Writer: Celene Adams
Quote from the awards letter:
First Place: Celene Adams – “The Energy Pioneers”
Judges’ comments: “What an innovative and clean approach to presenting a Who’s who of innovators and pioneers at the forefront of clean energy. Very readable and chock full of interesting tidbits. Very well done.”
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