An outside perspective is always important when preparing a manuscript. In my editing services, I will read your children’s manuscript, checking for errors, giving suggestions & objective feedback. I don't guarantee acceptance, but my goal is to help you make your manuscript the best it can be so your chances for acceptance increase. And if you are self-publishing, you'll know your story will be stronger.
Picture Book and Board Book prices:
$200 per book for under 1,000 words. And that includes a second look after rewriting within 2 months.
$250 per book for 1,000 – 1,500 words. This also includes a second look after rewriting within 2 months.
I’m hesitant to accept picture books over 1,500 words since most publishing houses want picture books to be between 700-800 words, and some even want only 500 words. I realize, however, every story is different. I’ll consider children's stories over 1,500 words on a case-by-case basis.
NEW!!!
I’m now offering 15 minute Zoom calls before I start editing. I think this will help me understand what my clients want better, and my clients will have the opportunity to present their ideas and dreams for their stories. This is a FREE service!
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 publisher, it is absolutely vital you have a manuscript you can submit with confidence, knowing you have given your work every opportunity for success.
Editing increases the chances of acceptance, engages kids' interest, and gives you credibility as an author. I've been doing free-lance editing work since 2005 and my clients like to refer to it as being "pam-handled." I am tough with my notes and observations, only wanting the very best for each story. I 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. My goal in editing is always to help writers put out a better quality book. Some of my clients have gone on to win awards (see endorsements below).
What you will receive from my editing services:
The editing process can be startling if you’ve never been through it before. It requires a thick skin and knowing the editor only wants the best for your story. It requires trust. It requires work.
Please know that as a freelance editor, my notes and suggestions about your manuscript are just that – suggestions. You do not have to take them. I give my clients what I’ve learned from attending decades of writers conferences and workshops, and my goal is to help you engage your young readers whether you self-publish or go traditional. That being said, I can’t give refunds if you don’t like my suggestions. If I have not started working, and you have changed your mind, of course I’ll refund the fee. But after the work is done, I can’t.
I put in time, thought, and prayer in each job. I truly want to help authors make their stories the best they can be!
NOTE: No one else sounds like you, so if someone else were to rewrite your story, it would not sound the same. As your editor, I’ll do all the above, but to keep the story uniquely yours, you’ll do the actual rewriting.
ENDORSEMENTS
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, author
[email protected]
2008 Best Children’s Animal Story Award
One of my most valued and cherished connections is with Pam Halter. She warned me of being tough and that she is... BUT she is never offensive, yet completely generous and supportive. I've learned and grown so much in one year of working with her. Pam has a huge amount of knowledge in the children's book arena and has written beautiful books herself. As an editor, Pam is above and beyond and manages to infuse a creativity without infringing on the piece itself. She jumps right in with notes, suggestions and leaves you to create the best possible.
Terry J. Barto, author of Nicherbacher, The Funniest Dragon and Gollywood, Here I Come!
Nickerbacher's Awards:
Purple Dragonfly
National Parenting Publications
Family Review Center (gold)
Mom's Choice (gold)
Gollywood's Awards:
Purple Dragonfly
Mom's Choice
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, author
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, Fruitbearer Publishing, LLC
www.fruitbearer.com
I am a new children's book writer and I have been very blessed and fortunate to connect with Author Pam Halter. I know from the start of editing my picture book, Pam could tell that I was a first time writer not fully aware of some basic writing rules. Pam was very patient, informative and provided sound guidance that really made sense to me. She sincerly wanted me to succeed and inspired me to keep writing and re-writing and re-writing. She helped me to understand that writing is a process. I can say with confidence that my book has evolved into a wonderful story that I didn't think I could accomplish. However, Pam's editing and notes of encouragement motivated me to keep writing to complete my first picture book. I am so proud of this accomplishment and I thank Pam wholeheartedly for her editing expertise and genuine care for my book project.
Crystal T. Marable, author