Wow, I can’t believe it’s 2026 already. Let’s start the new year off in the best possible way…by writing a new picture book draft (or two)!
I’m thrilled to open the Critique Train a bit early this month to give those in different time zones a chance to hop on first. Remember, you must…
- Write a new draft DURING the challenge. (You can plot and do character sketches ahead of time, but the draft itself must be written between now and January 17.)
- Shout DONE on this post or on social media
- Hop on the Critique Train Google doc to receive a critique from the passenger above and give feedback to the one below you.
- CELEBRATE!
Here’s a link to the Critique Train FAQ.
I’m the head of the train this month! I can’t wait to critique the first passenger. I have a busy week with my girls (and getting a dress for my daughter’s wedding–so exciting)! So it will probably be mid to next week before I can send my feedback. Remember, you can choose any PB for feedback–it doesn’t need to be the new one.
To be fair to everyone, you may be 1st once every 4 months. If you hop on 1st again during that time, I’ll just move you down one spot.
Need help coming up with a great idea for your new draft?
Check out my helpful tips here.
Save the date for the next Critique Train
Next month, the New Draft Challenge & Critique Train will run from February 19 – 21.
What are you doing to prepare for the PBParty Contest?
I can’t believe submissions for the 2026 PBParty Contest will be flooding in a little over two months from now. The judges and I can’t wait to read your entries and help make magical agent and editor matches again.
Do you know which manuscript you’d like to enter? If so…revise, revise, revise then polish, polish, polish!
If you aren’t sure, revise several of them and see which shines the brightest. Don’t forget to compare how strong the first 70 words are for each…and which story has the biggest hook.
See more tips in the 2026 PBParty Contest link above. And let me know if you have any questions.
PBParty’s SuperStar Ninja and judge Sylvia Chen has some amazing events coming up! If you’re near one of them, I hope you’ll go. Her books are amazing and she puts on incredible events full of creative activities. If you go–snap a photo or two!
🥳🧧💫UPDATE! *More* Jan/Feb events through Lunar New Year—in NYC, NJ + Boston if you want to join the cheery fun for SPARKLES FOR SUNNY. @penguinkids.bsky.social #ThaiMyPhuong #YuandMeBooks @strandbooks.com #IndigoShortHills #ParksideBookshop #BeaconHillBooks #ParsippanyLibrary #NCTE_AsAm_Caucus
— Sylvia Chen 余愛莉 (@sylviaichen.bsky.social) January 13, 2026 at 11:17 AM
[image or embed]
Reminder that my PB Fairy Godmother 2025 critique prices and holiday specials are available through the end of January. I’d love to help make your picture book dreams come true!
11 Comments
Leave your reply.