Advice for Unpublished Writers
- Critique Groups (this page)
- Book Doctors (this page)
- Self-Publishing Advice (different page)
- Publishing Resources (different page)
Critique Groups
Why spend money having your manuscript checked for misplaced apostrophes if whole passages lack oomph? My two cents: get the big problems with plot, pacing, and characterization out of the way before hiring an editor.
Working with other writers in a critique group will hone your writing skills. As you study someone else’s manuscript, you’ll more than likely recognize faults that crop up in your own writing. You’ll learn if readers sympathize with your characters, or if some plot element is simply unbelievable. And — for the cost only of your time — you’ll receive pointers for fixing your manuscript.
When selecting a critique group, look for one that concentrates on the work, not the writer. Criticism should be professional and aimed at helping you improve your manuscript. If none of the critters in that group can point out where your manuscript needs improvement, find a tougher crit group.
Many crit groups meet online. Search Google for critique groups in your genre, or try Forward Motion Writers’ Community. Writers’ conferences often include a workshop; you can find a list of upcoming conferences at the Shaw Guides and Writer’s Digest Web sites.
Brush up on style rules online by reading The Standard Deviations of Writing by Roger MacBride Allen or The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. (1918 version).
In case you prefer to read from a printed page, here are links to books I’ve read and found useful.
After you’re absolutely certain your manuscript is finished and ready to send to an agent or publisher, I would be delighted to proofread it for grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Book Doctors
Book doctoring goes beyond grammar and punctuation to address pacing, characterization, story arc, plot, language, theme — the same issues addressed by a good critique group.
While book doctors can’t guarantee your manuscript will be published, they can advise whether you have a saleable manuscript and suggest revisions that will improve your manuscript’s chance of publication.
The services provided by book doctors vary; some will give you a written critique while others will work with you to fix the manuscript.
If you decide you need a book doctor, select one with care. Ask prospects if they have been published themselves, what books they’ve worked on that have been published, if they’ve ever worked for a publisher, and how they evaluate manuscripts. Can you call with questions after receiving the critique?
Use caution! For information about scams visited on writers, visit Writer Beware or the Preditors & Editors site.
I don’t offer manuscript critiques or book doctoring services at this time.