early readers
Editing Services
Critiques for Writers:
I critique easy readers, picture books, magazine pieces, and poetry. For easy readers, picture books, and magazine pieces, I charge $100 (plus user fee for Paypal, Venmo, etc) for two critiques. For poetry, please contact me and we can discuss what you need. Critiques will focus on big picture items like character, story problem, plot, pacing, voice, structure, conflict, and resolution. I’ll also comment on grammar and punctuation. Payment is made via Paypal before we begin working together.
I am a traditionally-published children’s author of over 90 books, both fiction and nonfiction. I am also a member of the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and two long-running picture book critique groups. I have served on picture book panels, at conferences, and as a picture book mentor. I taught College Composition in an earlier life. I love helping others make their writing shine!
To make the most of a paid critique, I recommend you make your manuscript the best it can be by running it past a writing friend or critique group ahead of time. Please note: a paid critique is not a guarantee that you will be able to sell your book to a publisher.
Testimonials:
“Jody is a professional children’s author herself, so you know she’s someone you can trust in her critiques. I sent her two stories, and in both of them, she could pinpoint where the reader would get stuck or lose interest, giving me some sound judgment and advice to help move them forward. It’s been a delight working with her so I know I’ll be doing it again for future stories. I’m happy I found her!” -Stephen W.
“Jody’s knowledge and expertise concerning writing and publishing children’s books is exceptional. She is a true professional and her advice and guidance was so helpful to me. I highly recommend her to anyone who needs direction in navigating the world of children’s book writing and publishing.” -Julie D.
“Jody is wonderful to work with. Her notes and insights were very valuable for my children’s book. I highly recommend her.” -Denise G.
“Jody’s guidance and feedback were invaluable. Her knowledge and personability combine for a quality service. Her ideas are creative and constructive but not imposing. She has a firm grasp of the publishing world and the different options it offers. She is also very easy to work with and quick to respond to inquiries. I highly recommend. “ -Shawn F.
Freelance Editing, Copyediting, and Proofreading:
I edit and proofread for publishing companies and book packagers. I use Chicago Manual of Style 17 and Merriam-Webster Dictionary. I am intimately familiar with Microsoft Word and Track Changes. I am detail-oriented and always meet or beat my deadlines. Clients include Teacher Created Materials, Red Line Editorial, and A Child’s World, to name a few. References available upon request.
Speak up:
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early readers, editing, freelance, picture books, proofreading, work for hireAbout
Jody Jensen Shaffer (SHAY-fur) is an award-winning poet and the author of more than 90 books of fiction and nonfiction for children, including Creep, Leap, Crunch! A Food Chain Story (2026 Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award nominee, 2025-2026 Show Me Award/Missouri prelim nominee, Oklahoma’s 2025 Donna Norvell masterlist, 2024 NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book, 2024 Crystal Kite Winner, 2024 CYBILS Award Finalist Elementary Nonfiction, “Best of 2023” Pennsylvania School Librarians, SLJ starred review), The Last Day Julian was My Best Friend (2025 Crystal Kite Winner, Betsy Bird’s Best of 2024 Readalouds List), Porcupine Had a Fuzzy Sweater (2026-2027 preliminary nominee Missouri Show Me Award), Prudence the Part-Time Cow (Missouri Show Me Award finalist, National Book Festival pick), A Chip Off the Old Block (Iowa Goldfinch Award nominee, Amazon Teachers’ Pick), It’s Your First Day of School, Busy Bus! (Amazon best seller and Book Box pick), Sometimes I am Hot Lava, and more. Jody’s poetry and fiction have been published in magazines like Highlights, Ladybug, and Clubhouse Jr. Jody lives in Liberty, Missouri, with her family. When she’s not writing, Jody can be found spending time with family, walking her rescue dog, Sophie, and cheering on the Chiefs and Royals. You can find Jody online at jodyjensenshaffer.com, on Twitter and BlueSky @jodywrites4kids, and on LinkedIn.
From Jody:
I grew up the youngest of three kids in a northern Missouri college town, where my dad taught anatomy and physiology and my mom taught at the local elementary school. I earned my Bachelor’s in English from William Jewell College and my Master’s in English from Truman State University. After 12 years in the business world, I left to raise my children, and that’s when I fell in love with children’s literature.
10 random facts about me:
1. I am endlessly fascinated by the natural world.
2. I try to walk for exercise most days.
3. I like dogs. A LOT.
4. I am a member of two long-term writing groups. We give each other feedback to make our stories better.
5. I prefer a hoodie over a sweater, tennis shoes over heels.
6. The one food I can’t live without is peanut butter! Yum!
7. I love laughing and funny people and things.
8. I can sing the names of the 50 states in alphabetical order and the preamble to the constitution.
9. I remember the exact moment I learned how to read.
10. I loved being a kid.