When we write there is no way to be objective about our own work. We’re too close to it. That’s why the editorial process is so important. A good editor knows how to highlight the strengths in a piece and showcase talent in the best framework possible.

In 2012, I took over as Managing Editor of Kansas City Voices. I’m proud to put my stamp on the long-established print magazine, and got very lucky when the job fell into my path. My favorite part of editing for this project was curating our selected pieces into a cohesive collection. I learned something from every issue, and my work with Whispering Prairie Press led me to meet more talented writers and artists than I can count.

Volume 12 allowed me to get over my fears of Letters from the Editor. I also really started to embrace the curation process this issue; I found excellent opportunities for art and poetry pairings throughout. Balance is one of the most important things to me, meaning I want equal amounts of poetry, prose, and art in each issue. We were lucky enough to get some quality black and white art sent to us, which helped with the overall balance of the issue.

For a preview of the issue click on the image below.  You can learn more about the publication at http://www.wppress.org/