Picture book editing

What is picture book editing?

A picture book edit, which includes board books and young picture books, strengthens the overall framework of your story.

In other words, it helps make your picture book the best it can be by looking both the big picture components, such as plot, flow and suitability for your target age group, and the finer details like punctuation and grammar.

I won’t go in and make changes to your picture book, but I will point out where things aren’t working, why that’s the case, and recommend ways to fix the issues. I usually include an example of how I would address the issue, but I always encourage clients to apply feedback in their unique voice as a writer.

A picture book edit will look for and help resolve issues such as:

  • Plot inconsistencies

  • Issues with flow

  • Lack of relatability for the target age group

  • Scenes that lack age-appropriate emotion or impact

  • Character actions or motivations that don't feel believable or consistent to the target reader

  • Scenes where you can add more detail or embellishments 

  • Underutilized characters or devices you can use to drive your message

  • If your picture book tells the story you want it to

  • Areas where your picture book rushes or dawdles

Of course, I’ll also point out where things are working so you have a well-rounded view of where your picture book is at.

Before I edit your work, I’ll ask you to fill in a questionnaire so I can understand you, your vision for your picture book, and the ways you like to receive feedback.

There will be some things you won’t want me to change, and that’s fine! I ask all of this in advance so I can keep your unique voice as a writer and find ways around any issues I see in your story without disrupting your vision.

What is the cost of a picture book edit?

The cost for a picture book edit is:

  • Under 500 words – US$150/£120/AUD$240/CAD$220/NZ$260/€150

  • 500 to 1000 words – US$200/£160/AUD$310/CAD$280/NZ$350/€190

What is included in a picture book edit?

A picture book edit includes two rounds of editing. This means I will edit your picture book and return it to you so you can implement the feedback you feel aligns with your vision for your story. Then you will return your picture book to me for a final round of editing.

The first round of editing is a developmental edit. This includes:

  • A short editorial report covering the plot, flow, characterisation, themes, rhyming (if applicable), suitability for the target audience and age group, marketability, and guidance on the recommended next steps.

  • 15 minutes of follow-up question time.

The second round of editing includes:

  • A short report ensuring feedback from the first round has been implemented. You will be given an optional questionnaire so you can let me know what feedback you have decided to include from your editorial report.

  • A proofread of your picture book.

Should I have my edit done before or after I acquire illustrations for my picture book?

Ideally, you should have your edit done before you pay for or create your own illustrations. However, I will always work with you and your unique circumstances. If you’ve already paid for illustrations and don’t want to change them, I can tailor my advice to suit your current illustrations.

How long will it take to have my picture book edited?

It takes approximately two weeks per round for me to edit your picture book. Please let me know at the time of booking if you have any firm deadlines that we need to work around.

How to book your picture book edit

Head to my booking page if you’re ready to book your edit! I’m happy to answer any questions you have through my contact page or you can look through my list of frequently asked questions.