Answers to FAQ about writing, illustrating, and publishing:
Can you read or critique my story?
I provide critiques for both fiction and nonfiction picture book texts and illustrated book dummies. I provide an editorial letter on overarching topics such as pacing, narrative arc, character design/development, and page turns. I also provide in-line comments on smaller issues such as word choice or areas that need clarification.
Picture book manuscript critiques are $100. Picture book dummy critiques (text + art) are $150. I try to turn around my critiques within two weeks of submission. Second reads of the same manuscript or dummy are $50 for in-line comments. I am not a copy editor, and can not provide spelling or grammar checks.
I look forward to reading your work! Please contact me at jeanette [at] jeanettebradley.com
Picture book manuscript critiques are $100. Picture book dummy critiques (text + art) are $150. I try to turn around my critiques within two weeks of submission. Second reads of the same manuscript or dummy are $50 for in-line comments. I am not a copy editor, and can not provide spelling or grammar checks.
I look forward to reading your work! Please contact me at jeanette [at] jeanettebradley.com
I'm interested in writing/illustrating for children. How can I learn more?
Some places I would recommend to folks who are getting started in writing and/or illustrating for children:
- We Need Diverse Books: Resources for creatives writing for our diverse world, including workshops, grants, and mentorships.
- 12 x 12 Challenge - an online community with webinars, workshops, and a place to connect with critique partners.
- SCBWI - The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators offers workshops and conferences.
- RISD CE: The Rhode Island School of Design offers high-quality online illustration classes through its continuing studies program.
- Kids Comics Unite: If you are interested in graphic novels for kids, this is a great community with online classes and workshops
- Kidlit 411: This site is a wealth of knowledge and curated resources for everything from writing workshops to illustration challenges to legal resources for creatives.
How do I find an agent or publisher?
It's important to understand the different paths to publication that a book can take. Jane Friednman regularly updates a chart that explains the key book publishing paths.
Editors
US publishing is dominated by the Big Five presses, which includes many imprints. Small presses can be a great publishing experience for creators, but it is important to research publishers before you submit, because scams do exist in publishing. Some publishers are open to direct submissions from creators, others are not. Check out Kidlit 411's resources for lists of publishers currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. (scroll down page)
Agents
Many traditional publishers are only open to submissions from agents. The most common way to find an agent is to write a query email directly to the agent. You don't need to pay for access to agents, or attend expensive conferences to meet agents in person in order to sign with an agent!
Editors
US publishing is dominated by the Big Five presses, which includes many imprints. Small presses can be a great publishing experience for creators, but it is important to research publishers before you submit, because scams do exist in publishing. Some publishers are open to direct submissions from creators, others are not. Check out Kidlit 411's resources for lists of publishers currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. (scroll down page)
Agents
Many traditional publishers are only open to submissions from agents. The most common way to find an agent is to write a query email directly to the agent. You don't need to pay for access to agents, or attend expensive conferences to meet agents in person in order to sign with an agent!
- Resources on how to write a query letter
- QueryTracker: Research and submit to agents (not all kid lit agents use QueryTracker)
- Manuscript Wish List: Research what kind of work agents are looking for.
- Publishers Marketplace: Paid subscription. A great place to research what books agents are currently selling.
- Publisher’s Weekly: Website and newsletter with weekly children’s book announcement via email.
Can you illustrate my story or help me find an illustrator?
- If you are planning to submit your manuscript to traditional publishers or literary agents, you do NOT need an illustrator. Editors want to match the illustrator to the story themselves.
- If you are planning to go the self-publishing or indie-publishing route, I've written a guide on finding an illustrator for publishers. There is a lot to learn about how the process of illustrating a picture book works, and the importance of having clear written agreements with anyone you hire can not be understated! Find the free, downloadable Indie Publisher's Guide to Hiring (and Working WIth) an Illustrator here .