Published Essays & Feature Articles
My essays and feature articles have appeared in various publications, exploring themes of literature, education, and the writing life. These pieces reflect my ongoing engagement with the literary community and my commitment to sharing insights about the craft of writing.
Personal Journey
Organizations:
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Michigan Writers
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Rochester Writers
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Poetry Society of Michigan
Stylebook Expertise:
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Chicago Manual of Style (CMS)
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Associated Press
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Modern Language Association (MLA)
About Julie Bonner Williams:
Julie Bonner Williams is an accomplished author, poet, and editor whose writing captures the extraordinary within everyday moments. With a distinctive voice that illuminates life's subtle beauty, she creates work that resonates deeply with readers seeking authentic human connection. Julie has a Masters Degree in education from Aquinas University with a minor in Education.
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Writing Philosophy:
As a writer, I create from a place of observation, illuminating moments, people, and sights with the intention of framing them and preserving them in a new light.This approach infuses her work with authenticity and emotional depth that speaks across genres and generations.
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Academic Background:
Julie dedicated much of her career to education, teaching Writing and English courses at Grand Valley State University and Grand Rapids Community College. Her passion for language and literature has guided countless students in discovering their own voices and mastering the craft of effective communication.
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Literary Influences:
Julie draws inspiration from literary masters who have shaped her understanding of craft and voice: Sylvia Plath's raw honesty, F. Scott Fitzgerald's lyrical prose, Li-Young Lee's intimate poetry, Joy Harjo's powerful imagery, and Ernest Hemingway's precise storytelling. These influences weave through her work in subtle but meaningful ways.
Julie's Fun Facts:
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I am a devotee of the Oxford comma and will defend it to my last breath.
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In high school I submitted poems to Seventeen magazine because Sylvia Plath started that way. (My poems were published, launching a lifelong love affair with seeing my work in print!)​
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I love editing. My inner treasure hunter loves the quest to find the perfect word, the exact rhythm, the precise image that brings writing to life.
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I own a ridiculous amount of blue Bic pens and Docket Gold legal pads—analog tools in a digital world, but there's something magical about the connection between hand and page.
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I binge watch vintage television shows, including Bewitched, The Odd Couple, The Andy Griffith Show, and Frasier. Good writing is timeless, whether in books or on screen.
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I live in an artsy community on the southwest lake shore of Michigan with my husband and our many pets, where Lake Michigan provides endless inspiration and our animal companions provide endless entertainment.
Services I Offer
Professional Editing Services
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With years of experience as both educator and practitioner, I offer comprehensive editing services to help writers at every stage of their journey. My approach combines technical expertise with deep respect for your unique voice and vision.
Manuscript Editing
Developmental Editing
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Structure and organization review
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Character and plot development (fiction)
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Argument and flow analysis (nonfiction)
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Overall manuscript assessment
Line Editing
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Sentence-level improvements
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Clarity and readability enhancement
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Voice and tone consistency
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Style and flow refinement
Copy Editing
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Grammar and punctuation correction
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Spelling and word choice
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Consistency in style and format
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Fact-checking and reference verification
Proofreading
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Final polish before publication
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Correction of remaining errors
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Format and layout review
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Quality assurance
Specialized Services
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Poetry Manuscripts
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Collection organization and flow
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Individual poem refinement
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Submission guidance
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Contest preparation assistance
Academic Writing
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Research paper editing
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Thesis and dissertation support
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Grant proposal review
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Publication preparation
Creative Nonfiction
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Memoir and personal narrative editing
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Essay collection development
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Voice and structure guidance
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Market preparation
Writing Consultation
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One-on-one coaching sessions
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Manuscript development planning
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Genre-specific guidance
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Publishing pathway discussions
My Process:
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Initial Consultation - We discuss your project, goals, and timeline
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Sample Edit - I edit 1-2 pages to demonstrate my approach
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Detailed Quote - You receive pricing and estimated completion time
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Professional Edit - I provide thorough editing with detailed notes
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Follow-up - We discuss the edit and any questions you have
Investment: Contact me for pricing based on your specific project needs. I offer competitive rates and flexible payment options.
Why Work With Me:
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Former university instructor with deep understanding of writing craft
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Published author who understands the creative process
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Detail-oriented editor who respects your voice
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Committed to helping you achieve your publishing goals
Let's schedule a complimentary discovery call to discuss your writing goals and how my coaching can support you
Through the Transom...
A Blog by Julie Bonner Williams
Welcome to my literary window—a place where observations become insights, and everyday moments transform into lasting reflections. Here I share thoughts on writing, reading, teaching, and the endless journey of creative discovery.
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