Other Services

Manuscript Critiques

Writing books looks easy, but anyone who has ever tried crafting a story that entertains and enlightens readers, especially kids and their parents, knows just how difficult the process can be. If you’re struggling to perfect your manuscript, Laurie can help. She has worked with dozens of writers helping them develop and sell their work.

What’s Included

Laurie offers manuscript critiques in all genres. Each critique is a thorough manuscript evaluation that includes feedback and suggestions in the following areas:

Concept/Theme
Tone/Tension
Format
Opening and conclusion
Plot
Use of language
Pacing
Story arc
Character development
Title
Marketability
Competitive titles

For illustrated picture books, Laurie offers suggestions on illustration possibilities as well as page turns. All critiques include specific wording and structural suggestions to strengthen and improve your story as well as a follow-up phone call to discuss suggestions and next steps.

Writers must be at least eighteen years of age. Manuscripts should be submitted as a Word document, double-spaced, with one-inch margins, and in 12 point font with word count and contact information included.

Ghostwriting Services

Laurie has ghostwritten over twenty picture books, chapter books, and novels including three celebrity picture books. She offers partial or total ghostwriting services that can include concept development all of the way through final manuscript delivery. Every writing project is unique. Feel free to reach out to Laurie to discuss yours and how she can help.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Please contact Laurie to discuss your project and to get more information about critiques, ghostwriting, availability, and fees.

Reviews

Over the years, I have seen Laurie help many authors deconstruct and polish their picture book manuscripts. Many of those wonderful books have gone on to publication. I’m always amazed at how much knowledge Laurie brings to the table from her own publishing successes. If you are ready to take your picture book to the next level, Laurie is the one for you!”—Danielle Joseph, author of Shrinking Violet, Indigo Blues, Pure Red, and forthcoming picture book, I Want to Ride the Tap Tap
Laurie is an incredible mentor. She is one of the most inspirational and dedicated people I have ever met. She helped me refine my writing and pushed me to always do more and be better. Without Laurie I never would have become a published author—and because of Laurie I can now proudly say I am a best-selling children’s book author.”—Zack Bush, author of Made for Me
I’ve had the pleasure of having Laurie critique several of my manuscripts and every time she has helped take my story to the next level. Laurie understands the heart of the story and puts time and thought into each of her critiques. Her thorough evaluation with regards to character development, plot and pacing is spot on. The best thing about Laurie is that she always encourages me to challenge my own writing. Laurie is amazing and her feedback is a treasure!”—Sita Singh, children’s book writer
As a mentor, Laurie has made such a difference in our writing life, our stories, and our confidence level. She is always very specific in her feedback and spends time on the phone discussing the intentions of the story and how to best achieve the feel and meaning we want to convey. She has made our stories stronger, not only with her suggestions, but in her belief in our abilities. She even helped us get our agent. We trust Laurie implicitly and can’t wait to work with her again.”—Christine and Darrell Bevins, children’s book writers
A master storyteller and coach, Laurie probed my vision for my manuscript, identified its strengths, pointed out areas for improvement, and discussed how to make my work fit into today’s market. She encouraged me to dig deeper into every aspect of storytelling. A critique from Laurie will definitely improve your manuscript.”—Dee Knabb, children’s book writer