Comments on your manuscript
Specific observations and suggested edits addressing clarity, voice, word choice, word economy, pacing, and how the text sounds when read aloud.
For picture book writers
Picture Book
Picture Book
Critiques
A fresh pair of eyes.
A clearer path to your next draft.
Picture books may be short, but every word has work to do. I offer thoughtful, specific feedback to help you discover what’s working, understand what needs attention, and make your story stronger.
Explore the $350 package
S. G. Brooks
Bob Kolar
Davilyn Lynch
A substantive editorial letter
Usually 1–3 pages exploring your story’s strengths, its main challenges, and practical revision priorities. I’ll consider the concept, characters, story arc, ending, intended age group, page-turn opportunities, and the space you leave for illustrations.
A second look after you revise
Send me your revised manuscript for fresh annotations and a shorter written assessment of what has improved and what still needs attention.
A 30-minute conversation
One phone or Zoom conversation to discuss the feedback and your next steps. Use it after either round, whenever it would help you most.
A follow-up email exchange
One exchange after the second round to clarify any remaining questions about the critique.
How we’ll work together
Milo & the Monster
Illustrated by Jeff EbbelerGet in touch
Tell me your manuscript’s title, word count, intended age group, and what you’d most like help with. I’ll confirm availability and send submission and payment details.
Cheese Louise!
Illustrated by Steve CowdenRead, reflect, revise
You’ll receive your annotated manuscript and editorial letter within two weeks of our agreed start date. Take time to consider the feedback and make your revisions.
Hanukkah Harvie vs. Santa Claus
Illustrated by Michelle SimpsonTake the next step
Return your revised manuscript within 90 days of the first critique. I’ll complete the second round within two weeks of receiving it, then answer your follow-up questions.
A few practical details
Illustrated by S. G. Brooks
What counts as two rounds?
A critique of your original manuscript, followed by one critique of your revised version of the same story.
What should I send?
A text manuscript in Word format (.docx). You don’t need illustrations to have your picture book text critiqued. If your manuscript is longer than 1,000 words, ask me for a quote.
Can you look at my query or pitch?
Yes. A critique of one query letter or short pitch is available as a $50 add-on.
Let’s take a closer look
Ask about a critique
What’s the story you want to tell?
Tell me a little about your manuscript, and we’ll take it from there.