CBI 1-On-1 is a manuscript consulting service offered through Children’s Book Insider, The Newsletter for Children’s Writers.

Laura Backes, publisher of CBI, has worked in the field since 1986, and has held positions with several publishers including Ballantine and Farrar, Straus & Giroux.  She is also a former literary agent and freelance editor.  Her book, Best Books for Kids Who (think they) Hate To Read was published by Prima/Random House in 2001.

Chris Woodworth, author of  When Ratboy Lived Next Door, Georgie’s Moon, and
Double-Click for Trouble (Farrar, Straus & Giroux):

“Laura helped me clean up my first novel manuscript, then made helpful structural suggestions.
An agent picked it up and piqued the prompt interest of an editor. Based on such good results,
I also submitted my second novel manuscript to Laura, which immediately sold to the same editor!
My agent was impressed enough to request Laura’s contact info for other clients.

Cynthia Chapman Willis, author of Dog Gone and Buck Fever (Feiwel and Friends/Macmillan):

“Laura’s review of my mid-grade novel manuscript was detailed, precise and professional.
It pinpointed strengths and weaknesses, efficiently walked me through areas
that needed work, and asked poignant questions. My revisions led to publication
and positive reviews. I applied the critique lessons to a second novel manuscript,
published the next year. I would not hesitate to return to Laura for further advice  and guidance."

Diane Tinney; President and Publisher, Keene Publishing:

“Laura Backes has a natural talent for being a storyline editor. Storyline editors need to not
‘re-write,’ but instead recognize and exploit the author’s voice. Our books shine because of
Laura’s insights and skills.”

Since 1990, Laura has been in close contact with the publishing community through the pages of CBI, and has critiqued over a thousand manuscripts for beginning and experienced writers.  She has developed a wide range of expertise in the area of children's writing from both an editorial and a marketing perspective.   This expertise is now available to you at a very affordable  price. The services listed below range from a one-time critique  to assisting you with your query letter and negotiating the  publishing contract.  You may purchase several services at  once, or one at a time as you need them.

Manuscript Critique Rates:

Includes a written editorial critique as well as editing done directly on the manuscript.  Critique will focus on content, tone, voice, characterization, plot and theme.  Suggestions for revisions will be included.  Nonfiction critiques will also include comments on organization and presentation of material. The price for this service depends on the length of your manuscript.  (Note: If you submit multiple manuscripts for critique, the charges below are for each manuscript, not the combined total of pages for all the manuscripts.)

1-5 double-spaced, typed pages. . . . . $145.00
Each additional page over 5 pages. . . . $1.50 per page

(Note: a non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your critique slot.  More information about this is found below.)

Poetry: Same prices as above, geared according to the number of manuscript pages.

Additional critiques of manuscripts previously read by CBI: Deduct $20 from the price above for the appropriate page length. Include in cover letter the date of the previous critique.

Critique Prices of Manuscripts with Accompanying Artwork:

Includes the same written critique of the text as described on the previous page, plus a critique of accompanying black-and- white dummy, or up to five color illustrations.  The text must  be submitted separately from the art (typed, double-spaced).   The text may also be placed on the dummy, but this is not  necessary.

Add $15 to price for appropriate manuscript length from previous page.

Additional Services for Authors and Illustrators:

Critique and rewriting (if necessary) of query letter …..$25

Critique of book proposal and outline (fiction or nonfiction) Up to 10 double-spaced, typed pages. . . .  . . . . . . . . . .$100
11-20 double-spaced, typed pages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $135

Telephone consultation regarding any question or problem (price per quarter hour). . . . . . . . . . . . .$30

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+++++ A non-refundable $25 deposit (which is credited toward the cost of the critique) is required to reserve a slot in Laura's  schedule. Call Laura (970/495-0056) or email  (laura@write4kids.com) to reserve your slot. +++++

All material must be sent with a self-addressed, stamped envelope with enough postage for the material’s return. Include a check or money order made out to CBI for the full price of the service, or credit card number and phone number (we take Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express).

Important:  Because she's only doing a limited number of critiques each month, it’s essential that you call Laura (970/495-0056) or email (laura@write4kids.com) before sending your manuscript, so your critique can be scheduled in a timely manner.  Also call or email to schedule a phone consultation (these can be arranged a day or two in advance–the author calls Laura).

If you have any questions, please contact Laura Backes by phone or email.

Thank you!

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