The old adage of “strength in numbers” holds true for authors. Feedback will undoubtedly strengthen a book, which is why successful authors seek feedback at every stage of book development. It will help the author create a book that is clear, rich, and more enjoyable for readers. No one wants to hear that their writing needs work, but collecting and adapting to feedback will make you a stronger writer and help you transform your book into a masterpiece that’s worthy of publishing.
One problem that authors experience when they go to edit is that they’re too familiar with their work to see it objectively. A writer spends hours immersed in the weeds of their book while planning, outlining, writing, and rewriting. This repeated exposure can keep authors from seeing the big-picture flaws in their books. Feedback from trusted teachers, editors, peers, and beta readers can help authors gain new and fresh perspective. Often, this feedback will uncover big issues and inconsistencies that the writer didn’t notice.
Another problem is that authors often have good ideas but lack the knowledge and experience they need to write solid, well-executed books. Their books are riddled with repetition, unnecessary descriptions, inactive verbs, and bland nouns. The structure may not be drawing in the reader the way the author wishes, or the characterization may need some tweaking. Their manuscripts may be full of misspellings, grammar errors, and incorrect punctuation. But writers aren’t always editors, so just because you lack some of the knowledge doesn’t mean you can’t write a book. Opening up to editorial feedback will go a long way in helping authors achieve professional grade work.
Seeking feedback can also bring credibility to your work. When you listen to the suggestions of publishing professionals or get feedback from successful published authors, you are receiving expert advice and connecting yourself to the wider publishing network. Getting professionals and mentors on your team may lead to endorsements and reviews in the future. Many readers get their recommendations from their favorite authors or editors, because they have learned to trust those professionals and their opinions. Getting this feedback and fostering these relationships can go a long way in gaining credibility for yourself as an author.
Ultimately, feedback will make you a better writer. It will help you to think of your book from a potential reader’s perspective and look at it from the point of view of a consumer rather than a writer. Seeking reactions to your product is a means of improvement, and it will eventually help you compete in bigger arenas. It can only help you get better. Without a feedback, your book might languish in the bargain bin at the bookstore. With it, you may achieve international acclaim.
It seems to be a good discussion by the way on some good topics so far covered. As blogs suggests group discussion always makes thing better and reveal the new concepts of any particular topic.
Marie, I don't have any names either.
I wish you had the WordPress link I’d post it on my blog. I will tag on my twitter
I'm sorry I don't know any group names or individual names to send it to. I thought I would be sending to like linkedin or the other icons listed. Unfortunately I don't have any names within the ALC
Very interesting words of wisdom to consider especially since I am creating my author circle to obtain feedback from my book. Thank you for sharing your perspective.