Book edits are expensive. Manuscript critiques are cheaper. Many new authors seek ways to cut costs. Instead of a book edit they opt for the cheaper manuscript critique. Consequently, they are disappointed by the lack of specific feedback.
Just as manuscript critiques provide insufficient commentary, other fallacies also mislead writers into making poor decisions.
Unpublished authors are easy targets for industry “professionals” who play by a loose set of rules; as a result, you’ve likely been exposed to their tactics and perhaps have come to accept some.
As Stephen King's first editor and publisher, I've obviously been around awhile and have spoken at many major writing conferences around the nation. Why should you trust me to give you honest advice? Check out my bio and see.I'll clear the air about common misconceptions that can easily lead you astray.Please devote a few moments to this site and allow me to set a few things straight.
I'll begin by challenging the bread and butter of many book editors. Manuscript critiques can be popular sales items because they're far less expensive than their full edit counterparts. They're also quick and easy for book editors to process. But are they worth their cost?
Manuscript critiques fall far short of what a serious author needs to revise a manuscript. For instance, only a full scope book edit can provide that. Don't fall short and waste your money by trusting a manuscript critique to guide your rewrite.I no longer recommend manuscript critiques and do not offer them as a service.
You'll find more info on this controversial topic further into this site. However, at this point I just want to warn you how dangerous this can be. Sample edits are just downright deceitful. The whole concept is flawed. You see, the most important issues--the major problems within a manuscript-- simply cannot be detected through a scan of a mere few pages. Only small, insignificant stuff can be identified.If you want to choose a book editor based on how well he/she can effectively point out minor mistakes, go right ahead, but you may regret it later.Professional book editors who have been in business for years rarely offer sample edits.
Never. These lists are typically comprised of buddies of the list provider or people exchanging favors. How could they be accurate if all editors haven't been sampled?
Of course, that would be impossible.
Steer clear of them and see more info further in this site.
This is one of the more preposterous ones I've seen. Rather than discuss it here, I'll refer you further into this site for the full scoop.
Everyone needs an editor, even best-selling authors. To be safe, please use the advice on this website to find the right book editor for you.The unbiased advice that you'll find on this website is based upon my 40+ years of publishing industry experience.
Michael Garrett's writing advice is right on!— Kirk Polking, former director, Writer's Digest School
Michael Garrett's writing advice is right on!
— Kirk Polking, former director, Writer's Digest School
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