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Manuscript Critique Services

How I Can Help You!

I can help you understand what editors, agents, librarians, teachers, parents, and most of all children are looking for in a picture book.

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I can help you understand how words and pictures complement each other when creating a picture book.

 

I Will Help With:

  • Line Editing

  • Character Development

  • Voice

  • Plot

  • Structure

  • Pace

  • Appropriateness

You Will Receive:

  • Initial Written Critique

  •  In-Text Track Comments

  • Critique on Revision

My Qualifications Are:

  • BA English Georgia Southern University Magna Cum Laude

  • Georgia Southern Writing Center Tutor and Writing Coach

  • Award-Winning Picture Book Writer  (See Bio)

  • 4 Picture Book Publishing Credits Schwartz and Wade Penguin Random House

  • 1 Picture Book Publishing Credit Source Books

  • SCBWI Southern Breeze Critique Fest 2021 Critique Provider

  • SCBWI Southern Breeze Picture Book Mentor

  • 15 Years Critiquing Experience in Critique Groups

 

Cost to you:

  • Picture Book Up To 1200 Words $75.00.

  • Middle-grade and Young Adult contact for pricing.

Testimonials

I have known Susan Montanari for 12 years in various writing critique groups. She has always displayed "superpowers" for helping to improve manuscripts, and her insights have become highly sought after and valued. She lasers in on problem areas whether in story structure or tone and somehow always sees what elements are missing. She is frank when assessing manuscripts, but positive in a "you can do it!" way. She has helped so many, from newbies to published writers in each of their new, hopeful manuscript journeys.

- Karen Jordan, Author

There's no one like Susan Montanari when it comes to zeroing in on what it takes to turn a promising piece of writing into something exceptional! From setting and style to plot and point of view, she's a seasoned editor who knows how to not only enhance your work but to breathe new life into it. I'm always more confident about my manuscripts after Susan has given them careful consideration.

- Eve Nadel Catarevas, author of Queen of Judo and Wonderful Hair: The Beauty of Annie Turnbo Malone

Susan has been a valued member of our SCBWI writers' group for years. We've come to depend on her humor, wit, and talent. Susan won't sugarcoat a critique, but if it's an honest and empowering appraisal of your manuscript you want, she's your woman. I'm always impressed by how quickly Susan zeroes in on what's working and what's not...and why. Then she goes beyond by offering concrete suggestions to help you address any problems. With special strengths in evaluating characters, tone, and narrative arc, Susan is a go-to editor who can help you create a rich and satisfying story young readers will love. 

- Susan Hood, Author

For more information, or to get started, please contact me.

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