There is a lot to learn about this industry and getting quality feed-back on your work is essential. I offer full critique services on picture books, which means I will read your story through a few times, make comments within the document and type up an editorial letter as well. I charge $75 per hour and can usually get a standard PB critique done in that time. Sometimes, it takes longer if the text is exceptionally long, if the writer is a beginner, or if it is in rhyme. I can usually let you know before-hand if I think it requires more than an hour’s time. You may ask a few questions to make sure you understand any points I bring up. Follow-up crits are based on how much time they take--pro rated on the hourly fee. Most PB texts are under 500 words but there are always exceptions.

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I've been writing children's books for over 20 years. I taught with ICL (Institute of Children’s Literature) for many years and helped run the Michigan chapter of SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) for 11 years.

I have 17 picture books published and more on the way

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I love working with words and young children and helping writers find the best way to nurture their stories. If you want to proceed, you can send me your manuscript, double spaced in a word doc. I will not start on the critique until I receive payment either by paypal or by mail. I will usually return a critique within a week unless I am traveling or in the middle of a conference. If when I review a manuscript, I feel the writing style is not something I can be of help with, I'll let you know right away and there will be no charge. Documents should be-mailed to me via the link at the bottom of the page or to lhelakoski@gmai.com

 

Payment

Paypal: pay through paypal account lhelakoski@gmail.com. I will accept checks if you do not use paypal. You will have to contact me to get best place to send...I am not always at the same address. Email me at lhelakoski@gmail.com.