Professional picture book feedback that helps your story stand out
Get expert feedback from an internationally published author and experienced editor with 20+ years of experience. Identify what's working, what's holding your manuscript back, and the revisions needed to make your manuscript ready for submission to publishers.
Manuscript assessment testimonials
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Suzanne Barton assesses each story in its entirety looking at narrative flow, the mood of the manuscript and the effectiveness of the piece as a whole. In addition, Suzanne has an editor’s eye for detail. Not only will she point out problem areas within your work, she will make suggestions to improve these. Suzanne is gentle in her criticism and overt in her encouragement. Her enthusiasm for ‘kidlit’ shines through each critique, inspiring you to continue creating.
Zoe Gaetjens
Published children’s and YA author, high-school English teacher -
I am delighted with Suzanne’s suggestions and edits to my picture book manuscript. It is an eye-opening, nurturing and uplifting experience. Suzanne is very efficient, professional and committed to making a story work. She has a sharp eye for detail and her comments are spot on. She addressed issues in areas such as the structure, pacing, and interaction between words and pictures, and provided excellent suggestions. Suzanne works wonders with the hook and synopsis too. Her clear explanations have helped me improve as a writer.
Theresa M Tay
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Wow! What a comprehensive critique! I was not even expecting so many constructive and encouraging comments. A great investment on my part. And your analysis of the book’s commercial appeal was pure gold, to use a cliché. Thank you so much.
Doug Atkins
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Internationally published author
Get personalised guidance from an author with picture books and junior fiction novels published by leading trade and educational publishers.
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Experienced senior editor
Stengthen your story with strategic, uplifting feedback from an editor with 20+ years of experience and a savvy creative and commercial mindset.
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Publishing and industry insight
Identify cross-format opportunities through your editor’s dynamic experience as a writer and producer for screen, stage, games and digital platorms.
Clarity on what's working
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Honest but encouraging feedback
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Actionable revision suggestions
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A stronger manuscript
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Greater confidence in your next steps
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Clarity on what's working ✏ Honest but encouraging feedback ✏ Actionable revision suggestions ✏ A stronger manuscript ✏ Greater confidence in your next steps ✏
Manuscript assessment options
A fast, focused review to help you understand what’s working and what isn’t in your picture book manuscript.
A comprehensive editorial report for writers pursuing trade contracts or high-quality indie release.
Popular blog posts
Not sure whether your manuscript is ready? Start with these free editor-written guides used by thousands of picture book writers.
Make your stories shine with the self-editing toolkit
Not ready for one-on-one feedback? Get this self-paced mini course and resource bundle to help you write and self-edit like a pro.
Professional tools to help you write and self-edit high-quality picture book texts. Explore 30 slides with links to video and audio lessons, resources and templates.
Toolkit testimonials
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I have read many writing books and magazines in my time. This toolkit is succinct and inspiring and well worth revisiting when about to tackle an idea for a book.
Alexander Mowatt
★★★★★ -
Thank you for sharing your pro-writing tips in a simple and engaging fashion. I appreciate the ability to move at my own pace. I am able to listen, take notes, and download files without fear of missing something important. Thank you for adding the helpful links at the end of the course, too.
Susan Jobsky
★★★★★ -
The toolkit was packed with information to guide new authors on the pathway to publishing their first book.
Shirley Burns
★★★★★
“I’ve been enchanted by stories since I was a child and I’ve been lucky enough to make a career out of writing and editing. I’ve wordsmithed for magazines, documentaries, animation, games, musical theatre, festivals, capital-city newsrooms, philanthropy and everything in between. My greatest passion is storytelling for children. I’d love to help you make your story shine.”
Why writers work with me
✔ internationally published author
✔ senior editor (20+ years)
✔ masters-qualified in screenwriting
✔ corporate editorial leader
✔ picture book rhyme specialist
Free poster for picture book writers
