Indexing

I write comprehensive, thoughtfully structured indexes. I read every word of your book, and I make sure that your readers can find the information that you present.

I index a wide range of titles in the humanities and social sciences. Subjects I specialize in include political science, Asian studies, Indigenous/First Nations studies, history, religious studies, biography/memoir, anthropology, education, health and wellness, and social work. I have also indexed books in African studies, literary criticism, film studies, business, and gardening. I enjoy exploring other subject areas as well.

In 2014 I won the inaugural Purple Pen Award for Best New Indexer, for the book Strange Visitors: Documents in the History of Indigenous and Settler Relations in Canada from 1876, edited by Keith D. Smith (University of Toronto Press, 2014). You can read more about that here.

“Thank you again for your speedy yet thoughtful indexing on [From Moon Cakes to Mao to Modern China.] Based on some of the issues you flagged, I ended up restructuring the book’s chapters and headings (they had been sadly scrambled by a well-intentioned person who was trying to simplify things, alas). That required renumbering the index, of course, so I spent a lot of time poring over your work, and I feel it elevates the book from whimsical and weird to perhaps genuinely useful.”

— India Amos, former Managing Editor at CN Times Books

A list of my recent projects can be found here. Look also on my blog for featured projects.

My clients include:

  • University of Toronto Press
  • Wilfrid Laurier University Press
  • UBC Press
  • University of Alberta Press
  • University of Hawai’i Press
  • Pacific Educational Press
  • Harbour Publishing
  • Douglas & McIntyre
  • Greystone Books
  • Figure 1 Publishing
  • LifeTree Media
  • Westchester Publishing Services.

My rates are competitive, and take into account the nature of the work. This includes the density of the material and the level of detail required for the index.

Do you have a tight deadline? I may be able to accommodate you, although rush charges may apply.

To get an estimate, go to my Contact Page and send me a note. Please include the details of your project, including subject, length, and audience. I aim to reply within 24 hours during regular business days (I live in Alberta, Canada, MST).

To discuss your project or to find out more about my services, please contact me.