#PBCritiqueFest

It’s that time of year again…#PBCritiqueFest!

This social media based contest is hosted and run by Brian Gehrlein. His blog, Picture Book Spotlight, is an amazing plethora of interviews and giveaways from authors, illustrators and agents. I’ve been a subscriber for almost two years!

#PBCritiqueFest runs once a year on Brian’s blog. There are multiple ways of racking up points that count as entries for the drawing. I can’t imagine all the math that goes into this (no thank you!). This year there are even MORE ways to earn points by posting on Facebook, Instagram or chatting about it on a blog. You can check out all the ways here.

Last year, I was fortunate enough to win a critique from author-illustrator Brian Lies. I wanted to get an illustrators take on my dialogue-only picture book series because I know they tend be a hot-button topic with agents and editors: some love them, while some hate them. Kind of like candy corn. Brian gave me great insight from an illustrative perspective and tips on how to move forward with the series.

Unlike other contests, you don’t need to stress over writing a short story or fill out grueling applications that can take hours…or DAYS (in my case). For #PBCritiqueFest you just need to be present on social media, read picture books, buy and review picture books, and support authors and illustrators! “But, wait?” You ask. “Aren’t we already doing this?” To which I answer “YES!” Easy peasy lemon squeezy. And while we’re at it, don’t forget to pre-order Brian’s book The Book of Rules illustrated by Tom Knight.

A BIG thanks to Brian and all the prize donors!