Refine Your Picture Book Manuscript
You’ve written your story.
It might even rhyme.
People around you think it’s great.
But before you submit, or self-publish, it’s worth knowing what experienced editors actually look for.
This practical toolkit is designed to help you see your work more clearly, and strengthen it before taking the next step.
Most manuscripts aren’t far off. They’re just missing a few key elements that make the difference between a promising idea and a publishable story.
Inside, you’ll learn how to:
Tell whether your story truly works as a picture book, and what to adjust if it doesn’t
Fix the most common issue in rhyming manuscripts: inconsistent metre (even when it sounds right in your head)
Spot when your writing feels over-explained, flat, or unintentionally didactic
Write with illustration in mind, so your text and images work together, not against each other
Identify where your manuscript feels “amateur” (and how to strengthen it) before sharing or submitting
Edit your work using a clear, repeatable process, rather than guesswork
Understand what’s actually involved in self-publishing well, including realistic costs and common missteps
Work effectively with illustrators and designers, if you choose to publish independently
What’s included:
A thoughtfully designed PDF you can return to as you revise
Short, focused video and audio lessons to guide you through key concepts
Real examples of common issues and how to fix them
A discount code for manuscript assessment, if you decide to seek professional feedback
This resource is ideal for:
First-time picture book writers
Rhyming manuscripts (especially if you’re unsure about metre)
Writers considering self-publishing
Anyone who wants to improve their manuscript before investing in editing
This resource is not:
A guarantee of publication
A substitute for professional editing
A quick fix
It’s a practical way to make sure you’re heading in the right direction, before you take your next step.
If you want to publish well, not just quickly, start here.
