A writer and creative partner for your non-fiction work.
I work with authors to develop and complete their non-fiction writing projects and to help put new voices into the world. Each client and project is unique, and I love adapting to the individual needs of a project and working collaboratively to clarify and execute the author’s vision for publication.
About Me
I am a writer who has worked with numerous authors and audio producers for media outlets such as WNYC, NPR, Rizzoli, Anchor, Pantheon, Princeton Architectural Press, and Penguin. Prior to working for clients directly, I worked for StoryCorps, the national oral history and storytelling project, on titles such as Calling and All There Is, and I taught writing and English for many years as in Adjunct Lecturer at Brooklyn College, CUNY, and as an English Teacher at the Dalton School.
I earned my B.A in History from Yale University and an MFA from Brooklyn College, CUNY. I am native New Yorker. I grew up on the Upper West Side and live with my husband and our three children in Brooklyn.
A Selection of Testimonials
"Makeba was always such a gentle and encouraging presence during our meetings. Our time together was always very constructive and exciting. I felt she really captured our collective voice."
-Domino Kirke, Doula & Co-Founder of Carriage House Birth
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"Makeba's ability to take our stream of consciousness and create a thoughtful and concise piece of writing illustrates her dedication to understanding her clients and the subject matter at hand. Having always wanted to author a larger manuscript but felt simultaneously fearful of that mountain, Makeba was the writer, manager and trail guide we needed. She was central in focusing us on our writing project, managing the moving parts, and an overall gentle voice throughout our process. "
-Samantha Huggins, Doula & Co-Founder of Carriage House Birth
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"So much of writing, and of figuring out one's project, is much like the best and most invigorating conversations you might have with a friend: Makeba Rasin is a master of this art. Her generosity in listening and in engaging, the rigor and earnestness with which she offers herself--her organization, devotion, and commitment--to everything she does, I can't recommend her highly enough as a creative partner; also, for some of the best hours-long conversations you will ever have."
-Lynn Steger Strong, author of Hold Still, Want, and Flight
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“Makeba is an exceptional editor with a keen eye towards detail and clarity, while also being a deeply intuitive and sensitive writer and reader. She deeply understands a writer's needs (and neurosis) and has the heart and mind to tend to every stage of development. She brightens, lifts and cares for every nook and cranny of every piece she touches, and brings out the best in every writer lucky enough to cross her path."
- Lisa Weinert, author and founder of Narrative Healing