We’ve found some excellent resources for you to get your manuscript professionally critiqued. Go directly to the websites below to get more information. Be sure to tell them that Laura Backes at Children’s Book Insider sent you! (Note: These critique services are not affiliated with Children’s Book Insider, and we are not involved with the critiques in any way, nor do we receive payment for referrals.)
Rhyme Doctors focuses on critiquing rhyming picture books (fiction and nonfiction) as well as poetry and poetry anthologies. Run by three published authors with decades of experience of writing in rhyme—Eileen Meyer, Michelle Schaub, and Patricia Toht. For more information and a rate sheet, go to https://www.rhymedoctors.com/
Two-4-One Kid Critiques specializes in picture books, but they will also critique easy readers, chapter books, and middle grade fiction. Two authors critique each manuscript and provide their own comments, as well as an overall summary sheet that compiles all the feedback in one place.
For editing on picture books, chapter books, poetry and nonfiction, contact David Greenberg at Children’s Book Manuscript Advisors, http://cbmadvisors.com/ He will assign your manuscript to the appropriate editor below:
Rachelle Burk is a published author who has a picture book editing service (she’s focusing on non-rhyming picture books at this time). You can find out more about Rachelle’s services here:
https://rachelleburk-critiqueservices.blogspot.com/
When you’re ready for a high-level edit (just prior to submitting, or if you’re self-publishing) that covers both content and line editing, as well as an analysis of the project’s marketability, check out these former professional editors and agents. Expect to pay more than for a standard critique.
Mary Kole Editorial: https://marykole.com/
Emma D. Dryden, drydenbks: http://www.drydenbks.com/
Deborah Halverson: https://www.deborahhalverson.com/
Interested in being an editor? Here’s an excellent piece that gives plenty of detail about getting started.