Peer critique community for writers and illustrators
Have you got a manuscript that needs another set of eyes? Or perhaps your words need a little tinker. Or maybe you just need a test out an idea or plot hole. Is your illustration too busy or not flowing quite right?
Peer critique is a fabulous way to get feedback on your work in progress.
SCBWI West has a fabulous and vibrant online critique community for beginning and emerging writers/illustrators. It's a safe space where kid lit creators can share their work and have it critiqued by other SCBWI West members. Want to join? Send a request via Facebook.
All SCBWI West members are welcome.
What is the peer critique community?
SCBWI West’s peer critique community is a Facebook-based group of writers and/or illustrators who are interested in giving and receiving feedback in a confidential and supportive environment. Members can share useful ideas and resources, and encourage each other towards the eventual goal of getting their work published.
How does the peer critique community work?
Call-out days for critique requests are posted to the Facebook group on the first Wednesday of the month. Our group runs on reciprocal critiques - so make sure you critique for others as often as you request. Manuscripts are exchanged via email.
Do you have any in person or online events?
Yes! We have one catch up scheduled for every quarter (so four per year) with two in-person and two online. These informal catch-ups are the perfect opportunity to meet others who are at a similar stage to you and learn about the industry.
What if I have a deadline outside the regular call-out days?
The call-out days are for accountability, so there is some room for flexibility to accommodate deadlines. Pop your request in the group with details of your timeline.
What is expected of members?
Members who are requesting critiques on their own work are expected to be active participants in the group and offer to critique the work of others. They should be open to receiving constructive criticism of their own work and provide constructive feedback to other members on a regular basis.
What if I’m not on Facebook?
For a volunteer-run organisation, Facebook provides a low admin way for us to run our peer critique community and a simple way for members to connect. If you prefer not to be on Facebook, you are still welcome to join the in-person or online events which will be advertised in the SCBWI West newsletter.