Story Coaching for Children’s & YA Authors
Writing a manuscript is one thing.
Understanding how to strengthen it is another.
My story coaching sessions are designed for writers who want strategic, craft-focused guidance—not vague encouragement. Together, we analyse your structure, characters and narrative tension so you can revise with clarity and confidence.
What Story Coaching Involves
Story coaching is collaborative and analytical.
In our sessions, we may examine:
✿ Plot architecture and pacing
✿ Character motivation and arc progression
✿ Stakes and narrative tension
✿ Scene construction
✿ Voice and thematic cohesion
✿ Structural issues in the middle
We’ll dive into the heart of your story—whether it’s brainstorming, developing characters, refining themes, or strengthening your plot. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs, offering you the space and support to bring your ideas to life.
You leave with:
✔︎ Clear revision priorities
✔︎ Practical next steps
✔︎ Renewed creative momentum
✔︎ A stronger understanding of story craft
Is Story Coaching Right for You?
Story coaching is ideal if:
✿ You’re stuck in the middle of your manuscript or developing a new idea
✿ Beta feedback feels unclear or contradictory
✿ You’re dealing with a tricky story problem or need a creativity or confidence boost
✿ You want expert insight before investing in developmental editing
✿ You crave accountability and professional direction
My clients are serious about craft.
They are not looking for someone to “fix” their book—they want to understand how to strengthen it.
Coaching Packages
Story and Idea Review Workshop
A focused 60-minute virtual meeting via Zoom to tackle a specific issue.
Ideal for:
✿ Diagnosing structural concerns
✿ Strengthening a story idea
✿ Reviewing an opening chapter
✿ Clarifying plot direction or character arcs
✿ Addressing any specific manuscript question or writing challenge you’d like focused support on
Investment: $250 AUD
Novel Bud—Three-Month Intensive Coaching
Three sessions designed to move your manuscript forward with clarity.
Includes:
✿ Pre-session material review
✿ Three 60-minute virtual meetings via Zoom
✿ Email follow-up summary after each session
Ideal for:
✿ Structural revisions
✿ Deep character arc work
✿ Preparing to query
Investment: $700 AUD
Novel Blossom—Six-Month Intensive Coaching
Ongoing editorial guidance and strategic accountability.
Includes:
✿ Pre-session material review
✿ Six 60-minute virtual meetings via Zoom
✿ Email follow-up summary after each session
Ideal for:
✿ Major structural overhaul
✿ First-time novelists seeking consistent support
✿ Writers preparing for submission within 3–6 months
Investment: $1,350 AUD
Payment plans available.
A Craft-Focused, Analytical Approach
I bring:
✿ Professional university-level editorial training
✿ Deep knowledge of children’s and YA literature
✿ Years of literary analysis and story study
✿ Experience working across picture books, middle grade, YA and NA
As host of the Likely Stories podcast, I regularly dissect narrative structure, authorial decisions and literary history. Story isn’t just my job—it’s my lifelong study.
Our sessions combine thoughtful discussion with practical editorial clarity.
Book Your Story Coaching Session
If you’re ready to revise with confidence and understand your manuscript at a deeper level, I’d love to work with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Story coaching is personalised, one-on-one guidance to help you clarify plot, strengthen characters, overcome creative blocks, and gain confidence in your revisions.
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Writers who need clarity in narrative structure, struggle with pacing or character arcs, or want ongoing guidance through revision phases.
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Sessions take place via Zoom video call. Following our conversation, I’ll provide a written summary with key takeaways and suggested next steps for your revision.
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Both options are available—from a single 60-minute session to multi-session packages for in-depth guidance. We can also create a tailored package aligned with your writing goals.
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Coaching complements editing. It’s strategic and actionable, helping you revise your manuscript effectively before or alongside an editorial review.
Not sure what you need? Book a Free First Bloom Call for guidance.
Got a Quick Question
Every writer hits those small moments of doubt—Is this the right genre? Does this POV work? What does “show don’t tell” even mean? The kind of questions that don’t require a full manuscript review… just a little guidance.
Think of this service as a creative “nudge.”
Send me one story or writing question, and I’ll send back a detailed voice note with clear guidance, gentle direction, and the reassurance you need to keep growing your manuscript with confidence. Find some example questions here.
A tiny pocket of clarity—delivered straight to your inbox.
Book Your Free First Bloom Call
Take 15 minutes to explore your story’s potential and discover how developmental editing or story coaching can help your manuscript blossom.
Perfect for children’s, middle grade, and YA authors ready to move their story forward.