Overview
Over the years, I've critiqued manuscripts professionally for writing competitions, at SCBWI conferences, and also independently. It is a privilege and joy for me to work with writers of all ages and experience levels to reach those "aha" moments and get their manuscripts polished and ready for the market. I think it is important to discuss what your goal is overall and what you're looking forward to accomplishing with a critique. Each person has a unique story to tell, and I aim not to change an individual's voice, but rather to amplify it along with the overall story. I like to point out what's working and why as well as show areas of the story that can be strengthened. My feedback is truthful as I believe this is the best way to grow as a writer, though I aim to be as professional and supportive as always. I understand all too well how sharing your work with others can make you feel vulnerable, though I have experienced how editorial feedback has helped strengthen me as a writer and led to publishing contracts. Whatever your dream might be, I would be honored to share my expertise with you!
PRAISE FOR MY EDITORIAL WORK
"Thank you so much for your guidance, and for believing in me. I would not have written it without you, your guidance and encouragement." --Kim Han, author of "The Canadian Inuit Dog: Icon of Canada's North"
"You helped me get unstuck! I just needed your fresh, talented eyes!!!" --Jennifer Coleman, author of "The Texas Nutcracker"
"God has blessed me and put people in my path that really know this business, otherwise I’d be lost. You have no idea how grateful I am!" --Claudia Villarreal, author "The Bully Who Learned to Love"
" Your notes, as always, are spot on and gave me a fresh look at my manuscript." --Lori Keckler, picture book author
"Thank you so much for all of your pointers and advice. I was feeling a bit lost and felt that some areas just weren't right. Having someone else read it and give me some of their thoughts is just what I needed. I really appreciate the time you put into reading and critiquing. I feel like I can go forward now with a better idea of what I need to fix and change." --Katie Klein , picture book author
Services
Non-Fiction
Fiction
Languages
Awards
- Milkweed Prize for Children's Literature
- YALSA’s Readers’ Choice Award Nomination
- Spirit of Texas Nomination
- Quick Picks Nomination
- IRA Children’s Book Award Notables
- Shirley Henn Memorial Award
Work experience
St. Edward's University
Institute of Children's Literature
self-employed
self-employed
Jessica Lee has 47 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness

Hans N.
Jan, 2025

Nicholas C.
Dec, 2024

Marsha B.
Nov, 2024

Greg H.
Oct, 2024

Sierra G.
Oct, 2023
Sign up to read more reviews
Create a free Reedsy account to connect with Jessica Lee and thousands of other publishing professionals on Reedsy.