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Ianna A. Small

The Story Spark Critique

$175.00

For writers who want clarity before they commit to the draft.

The Story Spark Critique is a focused, one-page written assessment of your early draft. It is not a full developmental edit. It is a sharp, honest read of where your story is starting from, what it is doing well, and what it needs before you go deeper into drafting. Writers use this before investing weeks in a direction that may need to shift.

Submissions are up to 2,000 words. Critique delivered 2-3 weeks from receipt of your manuscript.

You will receive:

  • A 1-page written assessment of your story's concept and early direction, with clear observations about what is landing and what needs attention
  • A Mini Craft Pattern Note identifying emerging patterns in your writing
  • 2-3 prioritized next steps, sequenced so you know exactly where to put your energy first

You have the beginning of something. This critique helps you figure out what it is.

Note: Refunds are not offered after your manuscript is submitted for review.

You'll receive an honest, thoughtful reading of your work. It will highlight your story’s potential and offer clear guidance to help you develop your next draft.

Once you register, you will receive an email with instructions on how to submit your story for evaluation and to initiate our process.

Your critique will be delivered 2-3 weeks from the receipt of your manuscript, to allow sufficient time to review and provide meaningful feedback.

For Classes: We offer full refunds for cancellation with written notice up until 7 days before your class start date. From 6 days to more than 24 hours before class begins, we offer a 25% refund. If you drop a class less than 24 hours before the class begins or after it has started, you are ineligible for a refund.

The Write-In Bundle is non-refundable once purchased. If you are unable to attend a session, your spot is held and you are welcome to attend any remaining sessions in the bundle period.

By signing up for a class, you agree to our refund policy and code of conduct here.

For Editing packages: Refunds are not offered after your story or manuscript is submitted for review.

Meet Your Instructor

Ianna A. Small

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Ianna A. Small is a seasoned editor and story coach with over 12 years of experience helping writers bring their ideas to the page with clarity, confidence, and craft.

As the executive editor behind midnight & indigo, she’s worked closely with more than 400 emerging and established Black writers across the diaspora, guiding short stories, essays, and novel excerpts from rough draft to published piece.

She leads all editorial direction for the magazine and Writing Program, with a sharp eye for narrative structure, character development, and emotional resonance.