Portfolio

For samples of my narrative nonfiction writing, check out my blog, Late Summer Light.

AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATIONS

U.S. Geological Survey Circular 1264, “Geology of the National Capital Region–Field Trip Guidebook,” won the 2006 Geoscience Information Society Best Guidebook Award. I was part of a quick-response editing and production team that prepared this 297-page guidebook for the Joint Meeting of the Northeast and Southeast Sections of the Geological Society of America. Originally available in print, it may be found as a free collection of PDF files here.

U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Map 2830, “Geology of the Southern Appalachian Mountains,” consists of a geologic map and associated science-themed graphics designed and written for the general public. I worked closely with the author from concept development through editing and as a liaison with our in-house production staff to achieve the desired effects for the many complex graphics. This popular product is displayed and available for sale at National Park Service visitor centers and other outlets all over the region. It won three awards in 2009:

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Association of Earth Science Editors Award for Outstanding Publication
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U.S. Geological Survey Eugene Shoemaker Award for External Communication
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Second Place, National Association of Government Communicators Award (Individual Map Category)
The map is for sale in print or as a free download (two large PDF files) here.

U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1691, “Geology of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and Potomac River Corridor, District of Columbia, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia” won the 2010 Geoscience Information Society Best Guidebook Award. This product is a three-part report that includes (1) a broad overview of the geologic history of the area and how it directly affected the Civil War and the rise of the modern industrial era; (2) a detailed field guide (with accompanying page-sized colored geologic maps) describing geologic phenomena seen along the C and O Canal as one travels on foot or bicycle along the 181-mile canal towpath; and (3) a large fold-out geologic map covering the canal and its corridor. The book and map sheet include many historical photos of scenery and life along the canal around the turn of the 20th century. This report is available for sale in print or as a free download here.

OTHER WORK

“Unbridled Spirit; The Untold Story of the 2018 Extraordinary Palio in Siena, Italy,” by Thomas W. Paradis, is an informative look at a very special horse race that takes place in the town square of one of Italy’s oldest cities. With a playful and engaging style, Paradis invites you to meet the people, neighborhoods, and traditions he has come to love during the summers he taught in Siena. Available from Amazon here.

“Rescued from Brokenness,” by Marie Rich, is a memoir of a Jamaican-American woman who suffered from addiction issues and was a victim of abuse when she was younger. She tells how she renewed her life, found love, and left her difficult circumstances forever. Available from Amazon here.

“Out of Bondage,” by Pamela Chin, documents the thoughts of a deeply religious woman who comes to grips with her son’s identity after he comes out to her. Available from Amazon here.
Check back later for links to other material I have edited or written.

Discuss your project with me today!

Elizabeth Koozmin, Owner and Editor
Catoctin Editorial Services
(571) 345-8916