How Much Is an Editor for a Children’s Book: Understanding the Costs and Services
If you’re an aspiring children’s book author, you might be wondering how much it costs to hire an independent editor. Having your manuscript professionally edited is a crucial step in the submissions process. It can mean the difference between a book that lands an agent or publisher and one that doesn’t. Let’s dive into the costs associated with hiring an editor for various types of manuscripts, and what you can expect to get for your investment.
Types of Editing Services
It’s important to understand that there are different types of editing services. Each one serves a specific purpose and comes with its own price tag:
1. Manuscript Evaluation: A comprehensive written evaluation of your manuscript, with specific recommendations on how to strengthen and improve plot, narrative, character development, theme, structure, and presentation.
2. Line Editing: Line-by-line recommendations to focus and tighten the story, strengthen themes, enhance readability, and improve grammar and sentence structure.
3. Query Critiques: A detailed critique of your query letter, which includes line-by-line edits and polishing.
4. One-to-One Mentoring & Consultation: Individual sessions aimed at providing personalized feedback and guidance.
Typical Costs for Editing Services
Independent editors set their fees according to their level of experience and expertise, so the range can vary pretty widely… and as with everything, you get what you pay for. That said, here are some typical costs you might incur for various types of manuscripts:
| Type of Manuscript | Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Picture Book (up to 1,500 words) | Manuscript Evaluation | $500 – 1000 |
| Picture Book (up to 1,500 words) | Line Editing | $750 – $1500 |
| Early Reader/Chapter Book (up to 6,500 words) | Manuscript Evaluation | $750 – $1,500 |
| Early Reader/Chapter Book (up to 6,500 words) | Line Editing | $1000 – $2000 |
| Middle Grade Novels, Chapter Books (6,500-35,000 words) | Manuscript Evaluation | $2,800 – $3,999 |
| Middle Grade Novels, Chapter Books (6,500-35,000 words) | Line Editing | $25 – $75 per page |
| Middle Grade & Young Adult Novels (more than 35,000 words) | Manuscript Evaluation | Starting at $4,000 |
| Middle Grade & Young Adult Novels (more than 35,000 words) | Line Editing | $25 – $75 per page |
| Query Letter | Query Critique | $150 – $350 |
| Consultation | One-to-One Mentoring & Consultation | $150 – $350 per hour (2-hour minimum) |
Where to Find an Independent Editor
SCBWI’s Freelance Editors Directory – The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators maintains a vetted list of independent editors in their Essential Guide to Publishing for Children. Requires SCBWI membership to access.
Kidlit411 – Maintains a list of recommended children’s book editors as well as articles on working with editors and the editorial process.
Editorial Freelancers Association – offers resources like pricing guidelines, and an online directory of skilled publishing professionals who make up EFA membership.
Reedsy – International database of various publishing professionals. Be careful to vet qualifications as anyone can list themselves on Reedsy.
Referrals / Word of Mouth – Your critique group or writers’ network may yield recommendations from people who have had successful editorial experiences.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Not quite ready to hire a private editor? There are budget-friendly alternatives available:
Rate Your Story – Published writers volunteer their time to read and rate your story, as well as provide some helpful feedback for moving forward. Options range from annual membership to a “Speedpass.”
Editor in a Box: My own comprehensive kit containing everything you need to take your picture book or novel through the self-assessment and revision process. Prices start at $197.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth hiring an editor? Absolutely. A professional editor will improve the quality of your manuscript significantly, enhancing readability, marketability, and your chances of publication.
How do I choose the right editor? Look for an editor with specific experience in your genre. Check their references and reviews, and consider starting with a small project like a query critique to gauge their compatibility with your needs.
What’s the difference between line editing and manuscript evaluation? Line editing focuses on sentence structure, grammar, and readability on a line-by-line basis, while manuscript evaluation provides a comprehensive overview with recommendations for plot, character development, and structure.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a professional editor is a crucial step in the journey of getting your book published. It may seem like a significant investment, but the enhanced quality and increased sales potential make it worthwhile.
By way of transparency, I offer editorial services for children’s book authors. If you’re ready to take your manuscript to the next level, consider exploring my Children’s Book Editing Services.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further guidance. Happy writing!
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Remember to explore more about book editing and other services on my [website](https://emmawaltonhamilton.com/).
