Update Feb. 10, 2023: I am currently closed to critiques and will reopen in June 2023.
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My college copy editing professor always said, “Everybody needs an editor.” (Thanks, Malcolm.) If your picture book text has been through critique partners and it still needs some je ne sais quois, I would be happy to be your fresh eyes* (although I can’t help with your French).
I provide critiques for both fiction and nonfiction picture book text with an eye toward traditional publishing, drawing on my years of experience as a newspaper and magazine editor. I work digitally, using track changes to comment on the way a manuscript is working on a macro and micro level. This includes an editorial letter on overarching topics such as pacing, narrative arc, and character development, as well as in-line commentary on smaller issues such as flow, page turns, and word choice.
*Note: If you are planning to self-publish, I am not the best fit if you have begun the illustration process. My notes may include suggestions for wholesale changes your story.
Rates
Picture book critiques are $100 for the first 10 pages of a manuscript and $5 per subsequent page. I aim to complete my reviews within two weeks of submission. Please note whether you have a deadline. Second reads of the same manuscript are $40 for in-line comments on your manuscript but no editorial letter.
I look forward to reading your work!
Other Writing Resources
This list of craft resources compiled by my colleagues from the Soaring ’20s is a great place to delve into the art of writing picture books.
“I cannot thank you enough for your kind and thoughtful words regarding my manuscript. I truly appreciate your input and suggestions for ways to improve it. It really does help give me confidence in my writing.” —Carole Lindstrom, author of WE ARE WATER PROTECTORS, finalist for the 2020 Kirkus Prize
“I’m always so overwhelmed by Lindsay’s extraordinarily thorough and thoughtful critiques. She provides the most excellent insights and always goes above and beyond. I’m truly grateful for Lindsay’s ability to provide amazing guidance on the big picture and at the same time focus on all the little moments to help make my stories shine.” —Ali Bovis, author of the SYLVIE chapter book series
“Lindsay is my go-to person when I need deep and detailed feedback on a manuscript I’m stuck on! Her comments are always thoughtful, helpful and plentiful, giving me much to work with, and I count on her perceptive eye. I highly recommend Lindsay to any writer working on a picture book manuscript—you will get more than your money’s worth from a critique with Lindsay!” —Meeg Pincus, award-winning nonfiction author of WINGED WONDERS, MIEP AND THE MOST FAMOUS DIARY, and more
“Can’t thank you enough for your input, I am really enjoying revising this story. When writing a nonfiction biography, it’s important to focus on facts that support the story. But equally important to write scenes so readers are engaged and feel what the subject feels. You have an eye for detail!” —Keila Dawson, author of THE KING CAKE BABY; OPENING THE ROAD: Victor Hugo Green and His Green Book; and co-editor of NO VOICE TOO SMALL
