The reason I believe critique groups are invaluable... necessary is because these are other authors and/or illustrators who are wanting to improve their own knowledge of the industry and craft, who are working on sharpening their own skills. They're well suited to help you develop your story to reach the masses, whereas a consumer (my friends and family) may only be asking, "Do I like it?" A critique group member is looking at each word selection, the tempo of your rhyme, the color of your main character's shirt on this foggy day in the woods. I think critique groups are to writers what small groups are to church members - a way to know the material deeper and apply it better with much-needed accountability.
