When every word counts,

you need an editor who can elevate your story.

Let’s make your picture book sing.

Once upon a time, you had an idea for a children’s book. So you thought and you planned and you started writing your story. And after some time had passed, you finished. Hooray! A completed picture book!

But now . . .

You can’t stop revising.

You add a word or phrase only to delete it the next day.

You change something and then second-guess yourself.

You send files to your critique partners with names like “FINAL DRAFT 3” and “FINAL FINAL DRAFT 7.”

(Sound familiar?)

You have to find the balance between story and word count.

Because nowadays, the industry standard length for picture books is between 300 and 1,000 words. (And traditional publishers prefer a word count under 500.)

Even if you’re going to self-publish, you probably plan on fitting your story into the traditional thirty-two-page template—which means your word count matters too.

Jennifer provides concise, insightful feedback tailored to publishing for children and young adults.

I had lost control of my story. It was too long for a picture book. Past critiques had been very general and lacking in suggestions on how to improve the story.

Jennifer helped me bring clarity to my story so I could cut down the word count and leave room for the illustrator. My document was returned not only with Tracked Changes but with an audio of her explaining the changes and offering suggestions. In the audio, I could hear her enthusiasm for my project.

Since having my book edited, I have done a Twitter pitch that received several requests from agents to query. I feel more confident sending it out to agents and look forward to getting my book published.

Alexis Villareal, Rhyming Picture Book Author Noa Wonders

Whether you’ve written a picture book in rhyme or prose, I can help you make your words shine.

By the time we’re done working together, you’ll

have an edited manuscript you can feel confident in;
feel encouraged about the quality of your story;
be eager to write your next story; and
be prepared to move on in your quest for publication.

It was an amazing experience that helped me achieve the very thing I was looking for in an edit.

I had a great story but I wanted to elevate it and ensure I was delivering the words the right way. This story was inspired by true events, so I really wanted to make sure the manuscript delivered the right emotion. I didn’t want an editor that would strip the whole story of its true essence.

I was referred to Jennifer and trusted that she would be a good fit. I am so glad I did because it was such an amazing experience. It was so helpful to hear Jennifer walk me through her thoughts on different aspects of the edits she had made and why the changes might have been required. The edits really took my manuscript and helped me make sure my words were packed with the right emotions that I wanted for my book!

I have been so inspired knowing it is possible for my ideas to be transformed into an amazing story. I have now had people read the book and connect with the message, and I’m looking forward to writing more books!

Onaolapo Dagunduro, Picture Book Author My Big Welcome

Picture Book Critique Package

Two professional critiques plus a round of editing to make your picture book shine.

First, your picture book will be critiqued. This includes a thorough analysis of your story that examines the plot, characters, dialogue, and language. You will receive in-line comments and suggestions that may include ways to rewrite portions of the text or approach the text in a different way. Take your time to review the critique and make any necessary revisions or rewrites, then resubmit your manuscript for a second critique.

After you receive your second critique back and make any additional changes, it’s time for a round of line editing + copyediting. This edit focuses on readability and flow—which is especially important for books that are often read aloud—and writing mechanics (spelling, punctuation, grammar, etc.).

$600 USD

Rhyming Picture Book Critique Package

Two professional critiques plus a round of editing to make your rhyming picture book sing.

First, your rhyming picture book will be critiqued. This includes a thorough analysis of your story that examines the plot, characters, dialogue, and language. Special consideration is paid to the rhyme and meter of your book to ensure it is consistent throughout the text. You will receive in-line comments and suggestions that may include ways to rewrite portions of the text or approach the text in a different way. Take your time to review the critique and make any necessary revisions or rewrites, then resubmit your manuscript for a second critique.

$600 USD

Picture Book Editing

A combination of line editing and copyediting to make your picture book shine. This edit focuses on readability and flow—which is especially important for books that are often read aloud—and writing mechanics (spelling, punctuation, grammar, etc.). This single round of editing is only for picture books that have already been critiqued or had a developmental edit.

starting at $250 USD

Picture Book Proofreading

The final review of your book before publication. This includes not only a proofread of the text itself, but also the front and back covers, title page, front and back matter, and all illustrations. Author will submit a PDF file of their book for the proofread.

starting at $250 USD
Activity books and/or promotional materials extra.

Individual picture book critiques also available.

Interested in coaching? Find out more here.

Whether you’re looking to self-publish or query agents, I can help you get your book ready for what comes next.

Here's how it works:

Get Started

Fill out the contact form and receive the author questionnaire in your inbox.

Let's Talk

Complete the questionnaire and submit your manuscript. You’ll receive your customized proposal within two business days.

Relax

Sign your contract, pay the deposit, and start writing your next book.

As a new writer, I was looking for an editor that could assist with both development and traditional editing services. Jennifer provided both for me and did a fantastic job. She was great in giving suggestions but respecting the line between editor and writer. She provided a video clip of her edits so that I could completely understand the reasoning behind the notes that she was giving. I would recommend Jennifer as an editor.

Megan Zavaglia, Picture Book Author Maggie Goes to Scotland

Story, characters, word choice, and maybe rhyme and meter too—you have a lot to include in a small number of words.

And sure, you could rely on critique partners and friends and family. But doesn’t your picture book deserve better than that?

It’s time to stop tweaking “Final Final Draft 7.”

Let’s get started—together.

Download my guide to map out your picture book below.

Jennifer improved our book series in a subtle yet profound way.

After writing our books, we were unsure if we needed an editor (WE DID). Would someone try and change too much of our story? Was it worth the investment?

Jennifer was extremely responsive, thorough, and knowledgeable. We felt supported before, during, and after the editing process, and we loved communicating with her through video; we felt like we were right in the room with her having a conversation.

During the edit, we learned more about rhyme and meter and how this would impact the flow of our books. We now feel so much more confident that our rhyme, meter, and sentence structure are cohesive throughout our series—and now that our Kickstarter campaign has been funded, we can’t wait to hold our printed books in our hands.

Cece Leigh, Picture Book Authors Hello, God! I See You!

When every word counts,

you need an editor who can elevate your story.

Picture Book Critique Package

Rhyming Picture Book Critique Package

Picture Book Editing

Picture Book Proofreading