Hello! I’m Melanie Córdova, a freelance book editor, literary translator, and writer based in New England.

For about a decade, I was an editor at Candlewick Press, where I acquired and edited children’s books. I also managed and edited Candlewick’s award-winning Spanish-language list. While at Candlewick, I worked with brilliant debut authors as well as award-winning and bestselling creators like Juana Medina, Juliana Perdomo, Yamile Saied Méndez, Aida Salazar, and Flavia Z. Drago. In 2021, I was featured in Publishers Weekly as a PW Star Watch Honoree.

Now I have my own freelance editing business, Montes Lit, where I edit and consult for children’s book publishers and literary agencies, including Candlewick Press and The Cat Agency. From time to time, I also take on select editing projects from children’s book authors.

My debut translation project, Paloma Flies Away, is set to be published in spring 2025 by Candlewick Press. Originally published in Chile and titled Paloma voló, this picture book was written and illustrated by the talented Maria J. Guarda.

When I’m not editing or translating, I’m either with my husband — chasing our toddler, dog, and two kittens — or chipping away at my own writing projects.

Thanks for stopping by!