We provide a choice of services:
IN-DEPTH APPRAISALOur most popular and thorough service - we add comments directly into your manuscript, giving you instant, in-depth feedback. Suggestions are complemented by an additional summary sheet.
You send us a minimum of 10,000 words (or the entire text for picture books) plus a brief outline of the novel and we offer you confidential, honest, constructive feedback. We give detailed guidance on audience and reading age appropriateness, character, point-of-view, dialogue, plot construction, setting, pace, language, style, presentation and marketability.
We recommend our clients have an in-depth appraisal first, and then use the option of a Follow-Up Appraisal at reduced rates for subsequent drafts.
FOLLOW-UP APPRAISALSAvailable to writers who have previously submitted a manuscript to us for an In-Depth Appraisal. Comments are again added directly into your manuscript and will look at how you have acted on previous feedback. A TELEPHONE DISCUSSION is also possible, by appointment – see our further services. In addition, we can enter into dialogue about your work via e-mail, and prices depend on your specific requirements.
We are happy to answer brief questions or clarify points raised in any Appraisals, if needed. We then recommend that you spend some time revising your manuscript following our guidance. We can provide a quote for any further discussions you may like to enter into before submitting a redrafted manuscript.
‘TASTER’ APPRAISALNot sure if you want to invest in a full in-depth manuscript appraisal just yet? For just £20, send us the first ten pages (size 12, double-spaced) plus a brief outline of the novel, and we will give you a mini-critique, commenting on features such as language, style, audience appropriateness, use of point-of-view, plot structure and marketability. AGENT/PUBLISHER SUBMISSION
We can help you to polish your first three chapters before you send them to prospective agents or publishers. We will also help you craft your synopsis and covering letter. Although there are never any guarantees in the highly competitive field of children’s writing, we aim to give you the best possible chance of success with your book. SPECIAL RECOMMENDATIONS
After having appraised complete manuscripts, work of the highest calibre will be provided with a recommendation letter from ourselves to include with your submission free of charge. Children’s Fiction Services are proud to announce that a percentage of our profits are donated to children’s literacy charities, both in the UK and overseas (see useful links).
| SERVICE | COST† |
| Taster Appraisal | £20 |
| In-Depth Appraisal | £3 PER THOUSAND WORDS |
| Follow-Up Appraisal* | £2.50 PER THOUSAND WORDS |
| Telephone Discussion | £40 PER HOUR |
|
Agent/Publisher Submission (first 3 chapters, synopsis & cover letter) | £60 PER NOVEL |
† THERE IS A SET MINIMUM FEE OF £20 FOR ALL APPRAISALS * WHERE AN IN-DEPTH APPRAISAL HAS BEEN CARRIED OUT PREVIOUSLY ON A PARTICULAR TEXT | |
We can also tailor our services to suit your writing needs. Enquiries welcome.
Please note: We have a flat minimum rate of £20 for any work submitted to us. Return postage and packing needs to be included with any manuscripts posted. Prices are subject to change at any time.
All fees must be paid in advance of any appraisal being carried out. Please post your payment to: Children’s Fiction Services, 197 Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 7AB, England, UK. (Cheques in pounds sterling made payable to Children’s Fiction Services)