Writing One to One - Caroline Starr Rose

When I sell a manuscript to a publishing house, my work has just begun. In the months after a story is acquired, I receive in-depth, made-for-me direction on how to better my writing. This extensive revision process brings out my best work — far beyond anything I could create alone.

Writing One on One is my attempt to offer a similar critique experience to writers who are working toward publication. The process begins with a questionnaire that focuses on your writing background, goals and dreams, and specifics on your manuscript(s). This allows us both to see if we might work well together.

Work for Consideration

As a children’s author, I only read picture book and middle grade manuscripts. If you are looking for someone to critique your young adult manuscript, I would be happy to recommend several authors who take on editing work.

All critiques include line edits (comments within the manuscript itself) and an editorial letter (a detailed response to your manuscript). I do not copy edit (check for spelling, grammar, or punctuation).

Pricing

One picture book (up to 600 words for fiction; up to 1,000 words for nonfiction such as biography) – $125
The first three chapters of a completed middle-grade novel (up to 10,000 words) + one page synopsis – $350
One middle-grade verse novel (up to 25,000 words) – $650
One middle-grade novel (up to 50,000 words) – $850
One middle-grade novel (up to 50,000 words) first critiqued as three chapters and a synopsis – $400

** Writers interested in submitting the same manuscript(s) for a second critique can do so at half the original price.**

What Are Your Credentials?

First and foremost, my training has come through the editorial process itself. Since 2010, I have worked with six different editors at four different publishing houses — a true master class in writing. I’ve also been involved with the same critique group since 2013. Together we better our writing by offering feedback on manuscripts before sending them out to our agents and editors. In the years since I’ve started Writing One to One, I’ve critiqued two novels, one chapter book, and three picture books that have gone on to publish (or will soon publish) with traditional presses. I have also worked as an editor for Waxwing Books, a boutique publishing imprint of Read Aloud Revival.

Testimonials

Caroline Starr Rose has worked on five of my manuscripts, and I am always impressed with her critiques. They are thorough, well thought out, and encouraging. Not only does she care about you and your writing, she also pinpoints precisely what is needed to pull a stronger manuscript out of you. Working with Caroline is like corresponding with a professor of children’s literature. If you are serious about your writing career, then having Caroline critique your work is the smartest move you can make.
— Kathleen J.

I am unspeakably grateful for your critique. Thank you for your help and your inspiration.
— Nancy M.

When I received Caroline’s editorial suggestions for my children’s picture book manuscript, I was completely blown away at the detail and effort she put into helping me write the best story possible. I have joined writing groups, read a zillion picture books, and taken classes but the money spent having Caroline edit my story has been, by far, the best investment I’ve made in my writing. I plan to seek her guidance and counsel from now on!
— Betsy C.

At this point, I can’t imagine submitting a manuscript without having Caroline critique it first. When a piece of writing is as good as I can possibly make it on my own, she helps me make it better!
— Sarah M., author of A Little More Beautiful (Waxwing Books, 2022) and Because Barbara: Barbara Cooney Paints Her World (Waxwing Books, 2024)

I went through multiple revisions of a picture book biography over the last four years. I finally narrowed it down to a readable word count but I knew something was wrong. I had a vague start to a story arc but I couldn’t find the focus. Caroline reviewed my manuscript and with a few choice comments and suggestions enabled me to winnow out the unnecessary facts and find the story arc. I was elated with her critique and highly recommend her for her discerning eye and to-the-point suggestion made with positive, thoughtful comments. I told her if she tired of her writing, she could be an editor!
— Shirley D.

Working with Caroline Starr Rose has been a positive experience. She provided thoughtful readings, helpful questions, and suggestions mixed with generous praise. Revision is a long haul, but Caroline’s useful critique has provided a road map. The rest is up to me.
— Kate H.

Caroline noticed things in my manuscript that no beta reader or crit partner had ever noticed! And she gave me many spot-on suggestions for improving the story. I highly recommend her editorial service.
— Joanne F., author of Everywhere Blue (Holiday House, 2021)

I was introduced to Caroline Starr Rose through a recommendation for her critique/editing services. I am grateful I stepped forward on that recommendation. Her experience, knowledge and integrity shine.
— Tracie L.