Overwhelmed?

When I decided I wanted to write for children, I was a raw beginner with only two strengths:  determination and enthusiasm. The road to publication was long and filled with potholes, but I eventually found my way. I now know that my time on that "wannabe" road could have been shortened considerably had I subjected my first stories to a professional critique before submitting them to publishers. But there was that enthusiasm thing.... Whether you've written your first story for children and have no idea whether or not it's publishable or you've written many stories and are simply tired of receiving rejection letters, I'd like to help you get closer to publication. Here's what previous clients have had to say: "Jill Esbaum is just what I needed to get published. Her critiques are wonderfully professional and encouraging . With her editor's eyes, she quickly grasps the dynamics and patterns of any story. She knows where to cut and what needs to be developed in order for a story to come alive.” - Lindsey, Washington “Jill's critique had short- and long-term benefits. Immediately, her comments, guidance and support showed me how to make the most of my manuscript. And since my critique, I've applied the larger lessons I learned from working with her to everything else I've written. Jill helped me understand how picture books really work.” - Pat, Wisconsin “Jill's critique provided me with specific tips to improve my manuscript, along with valuable lessons to carry with me in future works. After incorporating her suggestions, my picture book was ‘publisher ready.’ I look forward to working with Jill again in the future." - Susan, Massachusetts “Jill Esbaum's critique service is well worth the money. The critique was extensive, informative and gave concrete examples for improvement. She also directed me to other authors' websites for further reading and help with the craft of writing. I have used her services twice in the past and recommend her to other writers, especially those writing in rhyme.” - Patricia, Missouri “Jill made great suggestions on my rhyming picture book manuscript. She also found every place it was off-meter. This really helped me develop my ‘ear.’ Jill was wonderfully helpful and supportive–I highly recommend her!" - Vicky, New York   "Jill's critique was worth its weight in gold.  She brought things to my attention that I had not noticed (like showing vs. telling and the importance of writing more vivid descriptions). Her critique was very helpful, and I know that it greatly enhanced my children's book." - Rachel, Tennessee “Jill is professional, thorough, and encouraging. She provided me with insightful feedback that enhanced my understanding of writing genres and word choice. Her editing helped to transform my writing.” - Diane, Iowa My qualifications? Over the years I've taught many classes on writing for children at the Midwest Writing Center, as well as the annual Mississippi Valley Writer's Conference. I'm an instructor for the Institute of Children's Literature and at the University of Iowa's Summer Writing Festival. In addition, I've sold seven picture books to major New York publishers.  When you send me your picture book story, I will:      * Give you a comprehensive manuscript critique. I'll make marginal comments on the manuscript itself, noting problem areas and suggesting solutions.      * Write you a detailed letter. I'll talk about your story's strengths and weaknesses and give you practical information to help you improve those less-than-stellar areas. Depending on the story, I might talk about strong beginnings, characterization, dialogue, didactism, point of view, structure, tense, voice, etc.      * Give your manuscript prompt attention and, to the best of my ability, an honest evaluation. I strive to finish a critique within two weeks of its arrival at my home. I'll e-mail you to let you know when your package arrives and when it goes back into the mail. Fee:  $100 per manuscript Manuscripts should be under 1000 words, typed and double-spaced. Please contact me by e-mail for further information.