“I’m so grateful for the thoughtful and honest critique I received on my manuscript! Tameka’s critique was balanced with encouragement and precision. She affirmed the marketability of my concept while offering clear, actionable feedback that strengthened my story in tangible ways. Her notes on clarifying abstract language, tightening pacing, and ensuring the text could stand confidently on its own (even alongside illustrations) were especially impactful. I appreciated how specific the suggestions were. Not only did she identify areas for growth, but she pointed to exactly where and how revisions would elevate my story. If you’re looking for insightful, directional feedback from someone who’s deeply invested in helping your manuscript reach its fullest potential, I highly recommend Tameka’s critique services.”
—Allen R. Wells, Award-Winning Author
I provide children’s picture book critiques for writers 18 years and older.
Critiques are $200/manuscript and include both a high-level summary, as well as a line-level analysis. A list of craft development resources may be provided at no additional cost.
Each picture book manuscript submitted for critique should be double-spaced and not exceed 1500 words. Manuscripts should be submitted as Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) files. Critiques will be completed using the Track Changes feature in Microsoft Word.
Payments can be made via CashApp or PayPal (PayPal payments will include an additional processing fee). Once payments have been processed, critiques are typically completed and returned within 3 weeks.
If you are interested in my critique services, fill out the CONTACT page and let’s get started!
“Tameka has an unparalleled understanding of characterization and language. Her critiques are thorough and insightful.” —Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, Award-Winning Author
“I highly value Tameka’s critiques. Her insights are always thoughtful; she has a sound understanding for story structure and gift for language. She applies her experience and talents to the work as a whole, looking for ways to make it stronger on every level.” —Kelly Dyksterhouse, Literary Agent
“Tameka critiqued my [Miles Davis] free verse manuscript with precise suggestions that clearly helped my story shine. Her line by line edits were detailed and constructive. I’d highly recommend Tameka and look forward to her services in the future.”—Kathleen Cornell Berman, Author
“My critique was way more than I anticipated! Normally I get a few sentence or paragraph tweaks, but Tameka’s critique was in-depth, thorough, and clear as to what was needed to make my story even better. For that I am truly grateful!” —Dorothy Price, Author
“I had a rhyming story that was dear to me, because it was a reflection of my family life prior to losing my husband. I knew Tameka Fryer Brown was a master at rhyme, so I decided to submit my manuscript to her for critique. Her encouraging and constructive feedback empowered me. Her suggestions helped breathe life into my story and brought it “full circle”. Words will never be able to express my gratitude for Tameka’s insightful approach to her critiques. It’s evident that she embraces a manuscript and analyzes every aspect to insure it’s as strong as it can be. I respect Tameka as a writer, value her as a friend, and highly recommend her critique services.”— Pamela M. Tuck, Author
“I attended my first SCBWI conference in September 2011 and signed up to receive a critique from an author, editor or agent. I was lucky enough to be assigned to Tameka! She provided me with feedback that was intelligent, insightful, honest, kind and incredibly useful. She showed an in-depth understanding of the children’s publishing market and where my work would fit. However, she also showed me where my work needed to be improved before it would be ready for one of those spots. I was also taken aback – in the best possible way – by how much she ‘got me’ as a writer by reading a short selection of my work. It was a terrific experience and has helped me continue to refine and perfect my manuscript. I told anyone who asked about my critique – and some who didn’t – what a truly positive learning experience it was!” —Marilee Haynes, Author
“Years ago when I had the opportunity to read some of Tameka’s early stories, I knew it would just be a matter of time before she was a published author. Her writing is so fun and lively — she is obviously very talented. And I can say from experience that she is also very talented at critiquing. Her critique of one of my picture book manuscripts included comments ranging from the very specific considerations of things like word choice and sentence structure to more “big picture” items, such as the emotional core of the story and the current PB market. And her suggestions were all presented in such a thoughtful and encouraging way…I highly recommend [her critique service]!” —Sheri Dillard, Author