Early Reader, Chapter Book, and Children’s Book Editing
early reader edit / $799
Early readers are a very specific publishing niche, and you really need to know what you’re doing to thread this particular needle. I’m happy to advise on your plot, characters, illustration potential, voice, syntax and word choice, and more. A Query Letter Edit is included. This edit will help you refine your craft and, more importantly, your thinking about writing for this very specific audience. The Early Reader Edit includes feedback on up to 2,500 words, which is understood to encompass illustration notes and everything else that will be read and evaluated as part of the edit.
chapter book edit / FROM $999
Chapter books are a vibrant bright spot in the children’s book market, perfect for audiences who are new to independent reading. However, this market is quite saturated and tight—publishers only have room for a few chapter book series at a time. Make the most of your idea, execution, and submission with a Chapter Book Edit, which includes line editing and comprehensive feedback on character, plot, dialogue, scene, voice, and writing style. The Chapter Book Edit includes feedback on up to 5,000 words for $999, with higher word counts assessed at different rates.
ART FEEDBACK / $400
If you plan to submit art with your early reader or chapter book submission, I will provide art-director-style feedback on up to twenty half-page or spot illustrations. This service can only be booked alongside one of the above edits.
“Mary Kole is an incredible editor. She helped me to see the story I meant to write within my manuscript. Working with her was a privilege. She gave me tremendous insight into the craft of picture book writing and illustration. I can’t wait to work with her on my next book.”
“I just wanted to let you know how much your notes have helped me. I felt so inspired! I have been working furiously since I received your notes and today presented my revised text and storyboard to my group. I wasn’t sure if my new idea was going to work and, believe me, my writers group would tell me if it was a bad idea. They were thrilled and even got tears in their eyes – I knew I had hit a home run!”
“I was referred to Mary Kole to edit my picture book. As a new writer, I am on a huge learning curve. Mary’s notes were honest and forthright, if a little hard to hear. But, they have taken me in a completely new direction with my little book. She explained some things to me and I am seeing my story with fresh eyes. She was kind and positive at all times and I am very happy to have found her to work with me. Thank you, Mary!”
“As a newbie picture book writer, I am glad I decided to enlist Mary’s editorial services. When I read her feedback, it was spot on and gave me a lot to think about. Every piece of feedback was important to improving the picture book’s flow and presenting a professional product. While writing this book, I spent a lot of time reading about the dos and don’ts of writing and I even purchased a book on punctuation. However I can see that hiring a professional to do the editing is imperative. Thanks again, Mary!”