[shelly-kintala Posts: 4 Status: Offline I love kids' books!]

I feel overwhelmed with the internet. So many options of paid critiques. Anyone have some recommendations of paid critiques you have used?

[RebeccaL-G Posts: 1,497 Status: Offline RA SCBWI Cen-Cal WWW]

If you haven't done so already, consider joining a critique group or finding a critique partner to participate in free critiques, before paying for one. There are several options: you can post part of a manuscript on the critique board here, you can post in the looking for an online critique group board here, you can get in touch with your local SCBWI regional chapter and ask about their critique group offerings in person or on line.  Critique groups or partners not only give you feedback, they also teach you how to give feedback (strengthening your craft), and offer accountability.  Good luck.

[shelly-kintala Posts: 4 Status: Offline I love kids' books!]

Can you point me to where I can find critique groups here? I'm a little overwhelmed with the site also, tried to find a critique group on my regional page but I was directed to the Blueboard.  I'm new to this. Thank you!

[Vijaya Posts: 7,164 Status: Offline Encourage WWW]

  I'll echo Rebecca's excellent advice to participate in receiving and giving critiques before paying for one. This is a huge board and you'll get the hang of it.
Here's where you can post stories for critique and critique other people's stories: https://www.scbwi.org/boards/index.php?board=121.0
and here's where you can ask to exchange critiques privately: https://www.scbwi.org/boards/index.php?board=127.0
Happy exploring and writing!

[June Smalls Posts: 104 Status: Offline SHE LEADS: THE ELEPHANT MATRIARCH May, 2020 WWW]

Depending on which region you are in, you may have a local critique coordinator. They can hook you up with other local writers. I met my local peeps at a critique event where they matched you with those closest to you.  Online groups are great too. Good luck!

[susan-hughes1 Posts: 54 Status: Offline Author, editor (critiques/dev edits), story coach WWW]

Hi Shelly,

Welcome to the world of writing for children! I echo everyone else in suggesting that finding your own critique group can be very helpful, especially as you begin to explore children's writing. And posting on the SCBWI board is also a great idea. SCBWI also has a list of editors who provide critiques for those who are looking for professional one-on-one assistance.

If you do decide you're interested in a paid critique or story coaching, please consider my services. I've been helping writers with their manuscripts for years, and I'm also the author of many traditionally published children's books. You can find out more about my editing credentials and experience here: http://www.susanhughes.ca/manuscript-critiques. 

Moderator: I hope it's okay to mention my critique service here in response to a direct query!

Best,
Susan