WriteNow 2026 Feedback 

Thank you to everyone who took the time to apply to WriteNow. We received over 2,000 applications from picture, chapter and middle grade writers and were impressed by the creativity and craft demonstrated.  While we can’t provide individual feedback, our editors identified some general feedback areas: 

Focus on your synopsis 

Your synopsis should be the ‘elevator pitch’ for your story. Imagine you have thirty seconds in a lift with an editor. What would you say to make them excited to read your book? Our editors want to know what makes your story sing and the hook that sets it apart from everything else on the shelves. The submissions that excited us most had a clear, compelling synopsis that captured what made their story special.  

Think carefully about your writing extract  

For picture book writers, we asked for your full book, so we were looking for those applications that had fully fleshed out the story. Your writing needs to have a clear beginning, middle and end that fits within the picture book format – usually, no longer than 32 pages.  

For chapter and middle grade writers, think carefully about which extract of your story you choose. Memorable extracts will have a gripping first line, make sure to introduce the key themes and characters and leave the reader wanting more. 

Be sure which age-group you are writing for 

This year we were looking for writers working on titles for ages 0-12 (picture books, chapter books and middle grade books). We received several applications which were more suited to older readers. Think carefully about the themes that you are focusing on in your story – are they suitable for younger audiences or might your writing be more suited for a teen or YA reader? 

Don’t feel pressured to rhyme 

Rhyme can be magical in a children’s book, but it's not required. If you find yourself losing elements of the story to make a rhyme work, it might be time to let it go. There are many brilliant and beloved picture books that don’t rhyme so write in whatever voice feels most true to you and your story. 

Read it out loud 

Picture books are almost always read aloud; by a parent at bedtime, a teacher in the classroom or a grandparent on the sofa. Before you submit, read your work out loud and listen to it as your reader would. You’ll quickly hear where the pacing drags or where the rhythm loses its way. It’s one of the simplest and most effective editing tools available to you. 

Keep writing 

As always, the quality of the submissions we received this year was impressive. With over 2,000 applications and less than 30 places on the shortlist, we had to make some hard decisions. There were many strong applications that didn't quite make it so we’d encourage you to keep writing, seeking out feedback and honing your story. 

For more guidance, explore our Getting Published hub where you can find a range of helpful resources, articles and blogs. 

For tips, advice, and opportunities delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our Getting Published newsletter here.