Picture book feedback that helps writers move forward with confidence

Suzanne Barton is an internationally published author and experienced editor who offers practical manuscript assessments and self-editing resources for children’s writers.

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Published author

Internationally published children’s books that blend humour and heart, working with major trade publishing houses like Hachette Australia.
Experienced editor

Detailed feedback for children’s writers backed by 20+ years of experience in books, screenwriting and purpose-led magazines and digital news.
Creative producer

Cross-format industry insights from dynamic experience in children’s TV, animation, video games, documentary and theatre.

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
Author of Little Angler‍ (Little Book Press) and Drawing Nudes While Making Other Plans (Penguin)
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
Wow! What a comprehensive critique! I was not even expecting so many constructive and encouraging comments. You put a lot more into this than the worth of what little you charged. 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

Manuscript assessment options

The Picture Book Writer's Toolkit

A$59.00

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.