I have two critique groups (1 for middle grade work and1 for picture books) that I can send things to in any condition. I trust them and their comments.
In the earliest, messy stages, I rely on my CPs Olga and Christine for feedback. This time I also sent a draft to my agent Joanna who wrote an editorial letter that caused me to scrap 50% of my book and rework the stakes, subplots, third-act breakup, a big reveal and more. It can be scary sharing your work with others especially when you know it isn't where it needs to be, but can't figure out how to get there. I am incredibly thankful for my writing village, and for the trust others have placed in me to critique their work too.
Thank you for sharing, Gina. I find it helpful and interesting to hear about other writers' processes. Agree it is an honor to be trusted to read and critique someone's work, especially in those fragile early stages!
I knew I was supposed to be writing when I realized I craved feedback—positive or negative—and rejection didn’t destroy me. I don’t share the first draft of anything, but if I’ve had a chance to tidy it up, I’m definitely game for fresh eyes on my work. Great points in this piece. Thank you!
I can definitely relate to wanting to tidy (and tidy some more) before sharing! I've been trying to get more comfortable sharing at rougher stages, but it doesn't come super naturally to me. Thanks for reading, Maria!
I have two critique groups (1 for middle grade work and1 for picture books) that I can send things to in any condition. I trust them and their comments.
In the earliest, messy stages, I rely on my CPs Olga and Christine for feedback. This time I also sent a draft to my agent Joanna who wrote an editorial letter that caused me to scrap 50% of my book and rework the stakes, subplots, third-act breakup, a big reveal and more. It can be scary sharing your work with others especially when you know it isn't where it needs to be, but can't figure out how to get there. I am incredibly thankful for my writing village, and for the trust others have placed in me to critique their work too.
Thank you for sharing, Gina. I find it helpful and interesting to hear about other writers' processes. Agree it is an honor to be trusted to read and critique someone's work, especially in those fragile early stages!
I knew I was supposed to be writing when I realized I craved feedback—positive or negative—and rejection didn’t destroy me. I don’t share the first draft of anything, but if I’ve had a chance to tidy it up, I’m definitely game for fresh eyes on my work. Great points in this piece. Thank you!
I can definitely relate to wanting to tidy (and tidy some more) before sharing! I've been trying to get more comfortable sharing at rougher stages, but it doesn't come super naturally to me. Thanks for reading, Maria!