One-on-One Critiques (Optional $95 Add-on)
Growing wonderful kid lit, like tending a garden, takes daily care and dedication. And what better way to cultivate your craft than by chatting with a master gardener (aka, an industry professional)? Submit your work-in-progress by August 1st, 2026, and receive written feedback on our SCBWI Critique Form, followed by a 15-minute one-on-one discussion with your industry professional. They’ll help you spot what to water, what to weed, and what needs a little extra sunlight or soil. Fifteen minutes of concentrated work with a professional could make all the difference in seeing your story grow.
Faculty are available on October 2nd and 3rd, 2026, between 9:00 AM CDT and 5:30 PM CDT. Time slots will be randomly assigned.
Post Event Written Critique (Optional $60 Add-on)
Cultivate your craft by adding a post-event written critique with a master gardener (aka, an industry professional). Submit up to ten pages of a manuscript, dummy, or complete picture book by October 11th, 2026, and receive written feedback on our SCBWI Critique Form with your industry professional. They’ll help you spot what to water, what to weed, and what needs a little extra sunlight or soil. Fifteen minutes of concentrated work with a professional could make all the difference in seeing your story grow.
Critiques will be returned by November 28th, 2026.