Leila Boukarim – Editor

I have been writing and editing picture books since 2013. In that time, I self-published 2 picture books and traditionally published many more with Chronicle Books, Macmillan, S&S, Andrews McMeel, Interlink, and Groundwood Books.

Over the years, I have worked with authors all around the world, at different stages in their writing careers, on fiction and non-fiction picture books written in styles ranging from prose to rhyming. I have seen manuscripts transform from rough drafts to beautiful, well-crafted stories, many of which have since found homes with publishers like Penguin Random House, Two Lions, HarperCollins, Marshall Cavendish, and more!

Depending on your needs, I can offer the following:

- Editorial overview

- In-depth editorial assessment

- Line edits

- Query and pitch critique

​- Rhyme critique

Regardless of what you choose, I will always be available to answer any industry and writing questions, like querying agents, comparable titles, manuscript wishlists, and so on. Please do take note that I will not work on projects developed or illustrated using AI, or stories that glorify the police.

I know how hard this business and writing good picture books can be. I know how self-doubt and fear can grab hold of you and convince you that you are not a real author. I am here to tell you: you've got this, and I'm here to help.