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Kidlit Knowledge with Humor
Wow. My ten minutes with John was a great investment in my writing career. He answered my questions honestly, thoroughly, and genuinely. His kidlit knowledge, combined with his humor and approachable style made the experience feel like I was talking to an old friend who happened to be an industry expert. My ten minutes flew by, but the positive impression he left is timeless. Much appreciated.
Judy McSweeney
March 24, 2025
Constructive Criticism with Extra Care
I met with Samantha. She was really kind, but had specific constructive criticism (on a line level) and was generous enough to go a few minutes over to answer my questions.
Jennifer Harris
March 24, 2025
Prepared, Friendly, and Insightful
Kayla was well prepared and friendly. She respected our time while providing helpful insights for my query letter.
Kim Lemaire
March 24, 2025
Kind and Professional Query Guidance
Caitlin was professional and kind. Her feedback on my query was insightful and helpful.
Kim Lemaire
March 24, 2025
Specific and Actionable Query Advice
Jessica was specific and thorough with our ten minutes. She gave me feedback that I can use to immediately improve my query letter, plus she gave me feedback about my bookÃs word count. (ItÃs on the long side and will likely be a red flag when itÃs time to query. Jessica provided a suggestion on where I need to aim for in that area.) Overall, it was efficient and a worthwhile investment. After I incorporate her feedback, I plan to book a second session with Jessica. I appreciate Manuscript Academy for providing these opportunities for new writers. It can feel isolating to do this work alone. Collaboration makes for a higher quality product and a more confident writer.
Jamie Snead
March 24, 2025
Helpful Feedback on Logline Writing
Megan was kind enough to review several loglines I had, a request a little out of the usual format. She identified a few things she would like different, which was very helpful.
Wendy Brandts
March 24, 2025
Fixing Character Faults and Depth
Stephanie was personable and sweet during our conversation. She helped me realize some faults in my characters and suggested resources that could help me fix them.
Tobie Carter
March 24, 2025
Thoughtful Feedback on Query Alignment
Alyssa was courteous and positive. She gave me great feedback and lots to think about regarding my query and how it relates to my manuscript. I really enjoyed our conversation.
Sara Leach
March 24, 2025
Above and Beyond Consultation Experience
Esther was great! She went above and beyond to answer my questions. I would definitely book a consultation with her again!
Karen LaSalvia
March 24, 2025
Engaging and Friendly Query Feedback
John Cusick offered thoughtful feedback on my middle grade fantasy first page. He was engaging and friendly (i.e. not scary). As a writer himself, I appreciated his editing notes. If you’re lucky enough to get an opportunity for a consult with him, grab it.
Mary Sloat
March 24, 2025
Crystal-Clear Manuscript Guidance
Such clear guidance! Mr. Cusick knew what I was attempting to do even more, at some points, than I knew what I was attempting. The comments all made so much sense once I got back to work on my story!
Emily Esner
March 24, 2025
Spot-On Structural Story Advice
Fiona was spot-on with her comments about my MG book, “Lockbox.” She made a comment that it should be a screenplay and the funny thing is … it was a screenplay and then I made it into a book as well! She pointed out that I needed to keep the book more about the main protagonist which, of course, trigged a rewrite for the book.
I appreciate all of you giving us writers the opportunity to get us in front of agents and editors. It only makes us better writers.
Stacey
Stacey Powells Lyster
March 24, 2025