About Jane.
More than a book coach.
You’re looking for someone to help you with writing your book. Why would I be able to do that? Sure, I’m a nonfiction book coach. It isn’t just that. It’s because there’s more.
I’m an expert at the space in between.
Just say you grew up as the child of Indonesian migrants in the post-White-Australia-policy era. Imagine being the poor kid studying a rich person’s degree at university (piano at the Conservatorium). Or becoming an advertising suit who aspired to become a professional writer and creative. And then as an adult picture migrating to a foreign country where you don’t speak the language … and then becoming a writer, editor and translator?And on top of that, what if two of the most important people in your life passed away in your embrace; a child and a parent?
My life is a collection of the spaces in between. I’m practically an expert in ‘not-knowing’. I trust so much in ‘process’ that I simply know in my bones that everything will be imperfectly perfectly okay.
I’m the only certified Nonfiction Book Coach, in Christchurch New Zealand
In 2024 I became New Zealand’s second Author Accelerator certified Book Coach ofr Nonfiction. I know that when you are in your book writing process, you’ll be in that in between space, too. That limbo between not having written a book and having written it. With all my experiences and my credentials, I would be the perfect person to accompany you on that messy middle journey.
Although based in the beautiful South Island of New Zealand, and thanks to modern technology and my passion for working with diverse people, I have worked remotely (both live and asynchronously) with my clients, all over the world since 2019. Wherever you are, we could make this coaching connection work, and make your impossible book, possible.
Fun fact: My logo is derived from the heart-shaped leaves of a native New Zealand plant, the kawakawa. The leaf has soothing, healing properties. It is most potent when a local grub has munched more than a hole or two through its tender flesh. Like anything beautiful and wise, it’s the weathering and curling at the edges—its endearing imperfection—that signals the promise of the greatest impact.
2009
Started freelance writing in The Netherlands
I took the plunge into working as an independent writer, editor and translator. I was already coaching my clients by explaining my edits in detail, which was appreciated (as English was often a second language).
2019
My first book coaching client approached me
A former client, a designer, wanted to become a writer. One New Year’s Day, in a cosy book shop cafe, he asked me whether I would help him. I said yes. And two years later, his book was on the shelves of that very book shop.
2023
Became Author Accelerator Book Coach
With a formal certification from Author Accelerator I have the tools and experience to guide people through the nonfiction book writing process. I have access to publishing professionals all over the world.
Areas of Practice
01
Writing Craft and Editorial Expertise
I have been working as a professional writer and communications professional since graduating from university. My performance, editorial, translation, teaching and own writing experience informs the way that I work with people in terms of giving feedback and explaining writing concepts.
02
Publishing Industry insights
I can help you decide which direction to take in your publishing journey and the best questions to ask, the best angles to take and the best strategies to put in place. A lot of people are overwhelmed by the options or don’t understand the process. I make everything easier for you.
03
Writerfulness Coaching
Your mindset and attitude to your identity will influence how you behave – how you live as a writer. We can work on how you feel about writing, being coached, receiving feedback and presenting your ideas. Mindfulness + bodyfulness = writerfulness (which is specifically handy if you want to embody being a writer).
04
Concept validation
Ensure your idea has been reviewed by a peer, potential reader and someone with insights into trends in nonfiction. You want to be sure that your writing efforts will end up in the hands of people who need the solution that you present, or are interested in the research that you have done.
05
Author Platform creation
You need to start thinking about marketing your book from the moment you start writing it. Then, while you write, when you launch it and afterwards. Whether you end up with an agent or publisher, building and maintaining a platform and marketing your writing is a neverending story.
My credentials
I’ve been studying the arts and creative expressions since my teen years. From advertising copywriting, to university level Grammar of English, to professional writing and editing and more recently, studying with an industry-leading organisation certifying nonfiction book coaches, my knowledge and experience adds up to almost 30 years as ‘a professional’ working with words and messaging.
Author Accelerator
Certified Nonfiction Book Coach
Diploma in Professional Writing & Editing — RMIT
BA & Diploma in Music (Piano) — University of Melbourne
AWARD School Graduate (Creative Advertising Copywriting)