You have a story to tell, but the path from idea to published children's book is full of twists. Whether you need help with a first draft, a query letter, or navigating traditional versus self-publishing, the right consultant can make
The Growing Need for Children's Book Consultants
The children's book market is more competitive than ever, with thousands of new titles published each year. Many aspiring authors find that a one-on-one consultant provides the focused, personalized feedback that a writing group or online course cannot. These experts bring years of publishing experience, editorial skills, and industry connections to help you refine your manuscript and navigate the submission process. From picture books to middle grade novels, a consultant can be your secret weapon for turning a good story into a publishable one.
How We Ranked These Consultants
We evaluated each consultant based on their range of services, depth of industry experience, client testimonials, and the clarity of their offerings. We also considered how well they cater to authors at different stages, from beginners with just an idea to seasoned writers seeking a final polish. The goal was to highlight consultants who provide genuine value and clear next steps for your project.
Here is a quick comparison of the five children's book consultants we reviewed, so you can see at a glance who might be the best fit for your needs.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Kate Messner Coaching & Consulting | Authors seeking a seasoned, award-winning author and teacher for manuscript feedback and coaching |
| Esther Hershenhorn -- Writing Coach | Writers who want a coach with deep teaching experience and strong industry connections |
| Children's Book Consultation with Jenny Bowman | Authors needing a focused, one-on-one consultation to address specific questions or manuscript issues |
| Home | Andy Wheeler Author | Authors seeking a consultant with a personal, lived-experience approach to writing and mentorship |
| Victoria J. Hyla - Children's Books Consulting Services | Authors who want a full-service consultant covering coaching, editing, illustration help, and publishing guidance |
Detailed Reviews of the Top 5 Children's Book Consultants
#1 Kate Messner Coaching & Consulting
A screenshot of the Kate Messner Coaching & Consulting website.
Kate Messner is a former National Board Certified teacher and the author of over forty award-winning children's books spanning multiple age groups and genres. Her coaching and consulting services are highly sought after, with clients praising her ability to make the writing process approachable and her clear-eyed, organized feedback. One client noted that Kate 'provided valuable feedback on several of my picture book manuscripts, fiction and non-fiction, some of which were eventually acquired by the big 5 publishing companies.' She offers manuscript critiques and coaching sessions that draw on her extensive experience as both a writer and educator. If you want a consultant who has been in the trenches and can guide you with warmth and intelligence, Kate is an excellent choice.
#2 Esther Hershenhorn -- Writing Coach
A screenshot of the Esther Hershenhorn -- Writing Coach website.
Esther Hershenhorn brings a unique blend of teaching and publishing experience to her coaching practice. She has taught writing for children at the University of Chicago's Writer's Studio and the Newberry Library, and she served for seventeen years as the Illinois Chapter's Regional Advisor for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Her coaching philosophy is to help writers 'discover, craft and market their stories,' and she provides careful manuscript readings with thoughtfully-worded comments. She also works with writers who need to respond to editorial revision requests, making her a valuable partner for authors already in the submission process. Esther's deep roots in the children's book community make her a trusted guide for writers at any stage.
#3 Children's Book Consultation with Jenny Bowman
A screenshot of the Children's Book Consultation with Jenny Bowman website.
Jenny Bowman, known as The KidLit Curator, has spent more than fifteen years editing children's books, specializing in picture books, chapter books, and middle grade novels. Her consultation sessions are tailored to each author's needs, covering everything from story idea strength to query letter review. She offers 30-minute and 1-hour sessions, during which she reviews up to 1,000 or 2,500 words of your manuscript or submissions package. Jenny's approach is focused and efficient, helping you move forward with clarity and confidence. If you need a targeted, one-time consultation to get unstuck or prepare for submission, Jenny is a smart choice.
#4 Home | Andy Wheeler Author
A screenshot of the Home | Andy Wheeler Author website.
Andy Wheeler is a children's author and consultant who offers a unique perspective: he draws on his lived experience to provide writing and guidance for other children's book authors. His website showcases his own books, his support for heart patients, and selective consultancy services for writers and educators. Andy's approach is personal and purpose-driven, making him a great fit for authors who want a consultant who understands the deeper motivations behind storytelling. While his consultancy is more selective, his focus on authentic, experience-based writing can be invaluable for authors looking to craft stories that resonate on a personal level. If you value a consultant who brings a genuine, lived-experience perspective to the table, Andy is worth considering.
#5 Victoria J. Hyla - Children's Books Consulting Services
A screenshot of the Victoria J. Hyla - Children's Books Consulting Services website.
Victoria J. Hyla offers a comprehensive suite of services for children's book authors, including coaching, editing, rewriting, layout assistance, art and illustration suggestions, illustrator search, and even publishing services through Think Ahead Kids. Her website emphasizes that she can help at every stage, from a raw idea to finding the right publisher. Client testimonials highlight her patience, reasonable prices, and ability to guide first-time authors through the publishing process. Victoria's all-in-one approach is particularly appealing for authors who want a single point of contact for multiple aspects of book creation. If you are looking for a consultant who can handle everything from coaching to publication, Victoria is a solid option.
How to Choose the Right Children's Book Consultant for You
Start by identifying where you are in your writing journey. If you have a complete manuscript and need a professional critique, a consultant like Kate Messner or Esther Hershenhorn might be ideal. If you are just starting out and need help with the basics, Victoria J. Hyla's full-service approach could be a better fit. For a quick, targeted session to solve a specific problem, Jenny Bowman's consultations are efficient and effective. And if you value a consultant who brings a personal, lived-experience perspective, Andy Wheeler offers a unique and authentic approach. Consider your budget, the level of support you need, and whether you prefer a one-time session or ongoing coaching.
Streamline Your Writing Workflow with These Simple Steps
You can make the most of your consultant's time by preparing your materials in advance. Use a tool like Google Docs to organize your manuscript, query letter, and synopsis in one place. Set up a simple spreadsheet to track feedback from multiple beta readers or critique partners. Before your consultation, write down your top three questions or goals for the session. After the call, immediately implement the key takeaways into your manuscript. This structured approach ensures you get maximum value from every session.
Your Next Chapter Starts Now
Choosing the right children's book consultant can be the catalyst that transforms your manuscript from a draft into a published book. Each of the five professionals we reviewed brings a distinct set of skills and experiences to the table. Whether you need the award-winning expertise of Kate Messner, the teaching background of Esther Hershenhorn, the focused sessions of Jenny Bowman, the personal touch of Andy Wheeler, or the full-service support of Victoria J. Hyla, there is a consultant ready to help you. Take the next step, reach out, and start writing your story with confidence.