Now there is quality
editing help for your
children's book manuscript !
children's book manuscript !
As an illustrator of children's books, and someone who frequently reads submitted children's book manuscripts, I see the necessity for affordable editing services that would be available to new authors. Many first time authors do not know about the proper format used for a children's book; tags and beats, how to cut lines without losing your voice in the story and much more. All publishers are not created equal, and some hold to a higher editing standard than others. That is why getting your manuscript as tight and well-written before submission is so important. Whether you plan to self-publish your story or are looking for a traditional royalty publisher, it is absolutely vital that you have a manuscript that you can submit with confidence, knowing that you have given your work every opportunity for success. That is why Picture Kitchen Studio would like to make available editing services to authors of both children's picture books and chapter books.
Freelance children's book editor, Pam Halter, has graciously offered to come on board with Picture Kitchen Studio to assist, encourage and inform authors in the editing process, helping you to bring out the best in your manuscript.
Pam Halter is a children's author and former home-schooling mom. She has been writing her whole life, but since 1994 for publication.
Pam has published picture books and has devotions in several compilations. She teaches writing workshops for schools, home-schooling groups and writer's conferences.
Editing increases the chances of acceptance, engages kid's interest and gives you credibility as an author. Pam has been doing free-lance editing work for several years now and her clients like to refer to it as being "pam-handled." She is ruthless with her notes and observations, but she has a gentle way about it, only wanting the very best for each story. "My goal in editing," Pam says, "is to help writers put out a better quality book. An outside perspective is always important when preparing a manucript. Whether you are self-publishing or seeking a royalty publisher, you want your manuscript to be as strong and tight as you can get it."
There is a craft to writing for publication that is different from what you may have learned in school. This includes format, length, point of view, passive voice, overuse of adjectives and adverbs as well as age appropriateness. You should not rely on friends and relatives.There is a danger of being too close to your work. We realize it's scary to have a stranger look at your "baby" and take it apart. But the benefits of an unbiased eye are worth the investment.
Pam has published picture books and has devotions in several compilations. She teaches writing workshops for schools, home-schooling groups and writer's conferences.
Editing increases the chances of acceptance, engages kid's interest and gives you credibility as an author. Pam has been doing free-lance editing work for several years now and her clients like to refer to it as being "pam-handled." She is ruthless with her notes and observations, but she has a gentle way about it, only wanting the very best for each story. "My goal in editing," Pam says, "is to help writers put out a better quality book. An outside perspective is always important when preparing a manucript. Whether you are self-publishing or seeking a royalty publisher, you want your manuscript to be as strong and tight as you can get it."
There is a craft to writing for publication that is different from what you may have learned in school. This includes format, length, point of view, passive voice, overuse of adjectives and adverbs as well as age appropriateness. You should not rely on friends and relatives.There is a danger of being too close to your work. We realize it's scary to have a stranger look at your "baby" and take it apart. But the benefits of an unbiased eye are worth the investment.
- A read through of your story before beginning editing
- Identifying passive voice, adverbs and adjectives with suggestions for stronger nouns and verbs
- Instruction on dialog tags and beats
- Highlighting repeated words and phrases
- Encouraging the writer by saying what the editor loves about the story
- Showing places where things can be cut without changing the charm of the story
- Giving examples and explanations, answering questions even after the editing process is complete
Pricing:
$50.00 for picture books
$3.00 per page for chapter book and middle grade novels
Comments from authors who have used the editing services of Pam Halter:
"Pam's editing style is insightful and really challenges a writer to improve. She's thorough, positive and fundamental. I was really happy with the job she did for my next book”.
Elisabeth Matulewicz
http://www.lapcatdesigns.com/
"'I've had the privilege of using Pam's editing services. She is an outstanding and discerning professional with a special sensitivity to improving a work without tampering with the author's voice or message. I would recommend Pam without reservation.”
Maryann Diorio
http://maryanndiorio.com/
“I have used the services of Pam Halter for several of my children's books. Pam is an unselfish author and editor. She works diligently behind the scenes to make you look good. Her keen eye and writing expertise made my "diamonds in the rough" manuscripts shine like diamonds. Every manuscript Pam had helped me with has found a publishing home. I cannot sing her praises enough.”
Dixie Phillips
Phillips4Him@omnitelcom.com
"I find it very difficult to send my precious manuscripts out to someone to edit. I fundamentally do not like criticism. But, I have used Pam's editing skills on two manuscripts now. On the first, I simply needed help from someone - a friend directed me to Pam. On the second, I realize her talent and I sought her out by request. I find her input insightful, challenging and encouraging. She takes the time not just to edit but also to encourage - I really appreciate that!"
Dalen Keys
http://www.dalenkeys.com/
"Whenever a client comes to me with a proposed children’s book, the first person I think of for editing is Pam Halter. Her observations are always on the mark with regard to content strengths and suggestions for improvement, and she is sensitive to the author’s voice and intent. Even with a light edit, she is thorough. Pam is also gifted in her ability to offer a tough critique with tact and grace. On top of that, her fee schedule is reasonable and includes a final pass after the manuscript is revised."
Candy Abbott
http://www.fruitbearer.com/
Fruitbearer Publishing, LLC
P.O. Box 777
Georgetown, DE 19947
302.856.6649
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