HOW I CAN HELP YOU
A Secure, Streamlined Editorial Process
VISIT THE KIDLIT HIVE
Click the image to the right to visit the website of my small business, The Kidlit Hive. It’s where I offer my editorial services.
PICK AND PURCHASE
You can mix and match your desired services à la carte, and even add a rush fee if you wish. Then enjoy a quick and secure checkout. It’s just like your everyday online shopping!
SUBMIT YOUR MATERIALS
Upon making your purchase, you’ll receive an automated email with a link to a Google Form where you can submit your materials. You may submit whenever you are ready—no rush.
A Secure, Streamlined Editorial Process
SUBMIT YOUR MATERIALS
Upon making your purchase, you’ll receive an automated email with a link to a Google Form where you can submit your materials. You may submit whenever you are ready—no rush.
WHAT MY CLIENTS ARE SAYING:
Testimonials are from paying clients only, no critique partners or giveaway winners.
EDITORIAL CLIENTS:
Gabriela Orozco Belt
Justin provided a wonderful critique for a picture book manuscript that was stuck! His insight to the story and what it was missing was spot on. I’m excited to see where his suggestions will take this manuscript.
Scott Zurilla
I couldn’t be happier with Justin and The Kidlit Hive services. He tweaked my Query letter, gave me a ton of great Pitches and provided multiple Comp Titles that were so helpful. Justin and The Kidlit Hive are a great… Read More “Scott Zurilla”
Jennifer Phillips
Justin provided a critique on a picture book manuscript that I hold dear. I haven’t had success finding it a publishing home despite many revisions and wanted fresh, expert eyes on it. Justin’s critique notes and letter were very thorough,… Read More “Jennifer Phillips”
Tara Knox Cerven
At the recommendation of a critique partner, I recently reached out to Justin for assistance in creating pitches for two of my stories. Justin far exceeded my expectations both in the quantity and number of pitches he provided me with.… Read More “Tara Knox Cerven”
Daniele Arndt
Working with Justin was amazing. He was kind and patiently answered all of my questions. It was evident he put so much time and care into finding perfect comp. titles for my story. Justin went above and beyond what I… Read More “Daniele Arndt”
Micky Levy
Justin is knowledgeable and caring. His critique was invaluable. Justin’s comments inspired me to dig deeper into my characters and story. Highly recommended!
Jessica Russo
When I contacted Justin to help me create some pitches, I had no idea that he would craft such a long list! I am now free to take my pick depending on the occasion! I will definitely use Justin’s expertise… Read More “Jessica Russo”
Yashika Mody
This was my first time seeking out an editorial critique from Justin and I found his feedback very insightful and descriptive. He broke down his feedback across multiple categories (such as plot, pacing, language, and characterization) which really helps me… Read More “Yashika Mody”
Jenn Moudahi
I highly recommend Justin’s services! He provided insightful and thoughtful feedback to elevate my writing and improve marketability. I was excited to start revising! The phone call was also extremely informative; Justin was open and authentic in our discussion.
Regina Montana
I was thrilled with the four query letters and comp titles that Justin provided for my four picture books. I had not completed the comp titles and was so happy that he did that for me. He succinctly captured the… Read More “Regina Montana”
Lori Keating
Justin’s critique and editorial letter truly impressed me. They were both incredibly insightful and professional. What I found delightful was his audio recording of my story. I couldn’t help but laugh as he read it aloud. If you’re looking for… Read More “Lori Keating”
Daniele Arndt
I felt like there was something missing in my manuscript, but wasn’t exactly sure what it was. It was going out to editors, but after a critique partner raved about Justin’s critiques, I decided to give his service a try.… Read More “Daniele Arndt”
Tisha Blackman
Justin did a fantastic job with comp titles for my manuscript! He went above and beyond my expectations. I highly recommend his services!
Deborah Foster
Justin really delivered! Not only did he provide some great pitch ideas but he also delivered it on time! I was able to combine his suggestions to craft the perfect pitch. Thank you, Justin!
Maria Modell
I sent Justin an informational fiction PB I’d been working on for a while. His critique was thorough and fantastically insightful. If you’re seeking professional services to bring your ms up to querying level, Justin can help.
Andrew Fairchild
Thank you for your amazing editorial talent to help craft a magical pitch for my MS. Highly recommend and definitely look forward to using many of your other services in the future!
Jennifer Lowe
When I decided to treat myself to Justin’s editorial services, I didn’t know what I was in for. The thorough and thoughtful feedback I received on my picture book manuscript was worth every penny. Justin pointed out areas that were… Read More “Jennifer Lowe”
Claudine Pullen
Justin’s critique was just what my manuscript needed, it was excellent. He is the King of humor and gave me amazing suggestions to get my manuscript to where I wanted it to be. He considered every aspect I had issues… Read More “Claudine Pullen”
Marti Johns
I purchased a full manuscript critique as well as a query letter and pitch critique. Justin was very communicative and kept me posted on the status of my critiques. The amount of critique I received for what I paid was… Read More “Marti Johns”
Nicole Salter Braun
Justin’s critique was amazing and thorough. I had been struggling with a humorous picture book for years and he gave me many specific things to work on and ponder. I have a feeling this will be a whole new manuscript… Read More “Nicole Salter Braun”
HUMOR CLASS STUDENTS:
Ana Kelly
Justin’s course was jam-packed with pertinent information, spot-on mentor texts, and engaging in-class activities and discussions. I feel like I’ve been gifted so many tools to sharpen my WIP and to better support my critique partners. Justin came prepared and… Read more “Ana Kelly”
Deb Buschman
The Mechanics of Humor with Justin Colon is a must for anyone writing humorous picture books. Justin does a great job breaking down all the elements needed to bring on that laugh we all want in our stories. He provides… Read more “Deb Buschman”
Armineh Manookian
I learned a great deal from Justin’s class, The Mechanics of Humor. He has been generous with his time in answering questions and has presented the lessons clearly while providing plenty of examples of techniques used from current picture books.… Read more “Armineh Manookian”
Julie Honan Johnston
Justin is a gem. His Mechanics of Humor class was informative, entertaining, and packed full of resources. One of the most helpful aspects of the class was Justin sharing his personal experiences and processes in the industry while treating us… Read more “Julie Honan Johnston”
Alayne Kay Christian
Writing humor may come easy for some. Me? Not so much. I took The Mechanics of Humor in hopes that I might find my picture book funny bone. There is a lot to absorb from this course, so I’m still… Read more “Alayne Kay Christian”
kristie Stutler
I enrolled in Justin’s Mechanics of Humor course as I was looking for a way to continue to grow in my skills as a picture book writer. I am so grateful that I did! Specifically, I really appreciated that he… Read more “kristie Stutler”
Sarah Skolfield
Justin’s course is aptly named: The Mechanics of Humor gave me aframework to evaluate my manuscripts with a new perspective. It’s a great course whether you have multiple manuscripts or you are just starting out. Justin is incredibly generous with… Read more “Sarah Skolfield”
Joannie Duris
Many workshops explore writing humor for kids, but Justin’s Mechanics of Humor series goes far beyond the exploration of funny. His deep dive into comedic structure and his nitty gritty tips about what makes kids (and us) laugh added new… Read more “Joannie Duris”
Lisa Thompson
As an editor, Justin’s ability to improve your manuscript is remarkable. He goes above and beyond, and is collaborative, creative, and encouraging. As an instructor, his coursework is thorough and enlightening. Justin is a secret weapon for anyone interested in… Read more “Lisa Thompson”
Diane McBee
The Mechanics of Humor is a class filled with information. Justin defines the types of humor and how to incorporate it into a story. He provides many picture book examples that demonstrate how different techniques and strategies are used. This… Read more “Diane McBee”
Steve Ciabattoni
I was impressed with how thorough Justin was with his research and his outline of the building blocks of humor for the course. In addition to showing off a lot of different forms and techniques, Justin also provided guidance as… Read more “Steve Ciabattoni”
Sue Fritz
Justin’s class came along at a time when I was feeling very down about my writing. After taking his class, I find myself re-motivated to dive back in. I love writing humorous picture books. THE MECHANICS OF HUMOR, Justin’s class,… Read more “Sue Fritz”
Nancy Kay Brown
I will continue digesting the feast Justin’s course offered. Six well organized presentations were chock full of goodies, more content than any course I have ever taken. Totally relevant and current. He knows humor, story, plot, planning, pace, arcs and… Read more “Nancy Kay Brown”
Brenna Jeanneret
I’ve been writing humorous stories for years and have a good feel for what works. What I was missing were the mechanics of how to set up the joke, what it really means to escalate and how to truly craft… Read more “Brenna Jeanneret”
Melissa Chupp
The Mechanics of Humor is a gem of a class. Justin shares his knowledge of humor in a very accessible way and introduces students to many fun mentor texts. The feedback he gave on my manuscripts was super helpful. Justin… Read more “Melissa Chupp”
Jeremy Simmons
This may be the best picture book class I’ve ever taken. The class was not only worthwhile because of how he deconstructs humor in picture books, but also the real-world examples he gives on what agents and editors are looking.… Read more “Jeremy Simmons”
Ronna Mandel
The Mechanics of Humor with Justin Colon, a six-week class via Zoom, was something I looked forward to every Tuesday. Justin’s presentations and discussions delivered exactly what he promised and I feel more knowledgeable as a result. Writing a funny… Read more “Ronna Mandel”
Melissa Mwai
Justin’s class on humor is packed with actionable information, great mentor texts, and covers a lot of ground in just a few virtual sessions. I’d recommended it for both new writers and seasoned writers who are interested in learning more… Read more “Melissa Mwai”
Yashika Mody
I’d highly recommend this course to anyone on the lookout for a good foundational class about humor principles! I attended most of the class through replays due to time difference overseas, but even as a video course it was still… Read more “Yashika Mody”
Sandra Proudman
Whether you’re an author, illustrator, agent, or an editor, Justin is a wealth of information, making The Mechanics of Humor course a must-take for those interested in or involved in creating humorous picture books.
Abby Woolridge
Justin Colon’s Mechanics of Humor Class went way beyond my expectations. The classes were packed full of insight and practical suggestions that we could immediately put into practice. Justin taught us how to analyze and learn from mentor texts, provided… Read more “Abby Woolridge”
MANUSCRIPT CRITIQUES
While I appreciate stories written in rhyme, I will not critique them as I do not yet have the skill set to do so. I’m otherwise open to all genres within the picture book format and especially adept with humor, darker and spookier tales, and nonfiction biographies.
Full Critique
Price: $60.00
- Concept & Premise
- Plot
- Pacing
- Character development
- Tension & Stakes
- Voice
- Language
- Structure
- Humor & Heart (where applicable)
Revision Critique
Price: $60.00
- Concept & Premise
- Plot
- Pacing
- Character development
- Tension & Stakes
- Voice
- Language
- Structure
- Humor & Heart (where applicable)
Rush Fee
Price: $40.00
- Skip the line! I will deliver your order within 72 hours from the time I receive your submitted materials. One fee per entre order.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
The following services may be added to a critique package and/or purchased on their own (unless otherwise noted).
Query Letter
Edit
Price: $ 40
- The personalization / connection to the agent/editor (if applicable)
- Polishing your pitch
- Reviewing and suggesting comp titles (if applicable)
Comp Title ASSISTANCE
Price: $ 50
- The personalization / connection to the agent/editor (if applicable)
- Polishing your pitch
- Reviewing and suggesting comp titles (if applicable)
Pitch Critique/Creation
Price: $ 40
- The personalization / connection to the agent/editor (if applicable)
- Polishing your pitch
- Reviewing and suggesting comp titles (if applicable)
30-Minute CONSULT
Price: $ 60
- The personalization / connection to the agent/editor (if applicable)
- Polishing your pitch
- Reviewing and suggesting comp titles (if applicable)
60-Minute CONSULT
Price: $ 100
- The personalization / connection to the agent/editor (if applicable)
- Polishing your pitch
- Reviewing and suggesting comp titles (if applicable)