For the first time in forever I’m not writing crime fiction. It’s a “regular” non-genre novel (whatever that is). Mainstream, I suppose. I’ve had many beta readers reading big chunks as it comes together—and I cannot thank them enough. I’ve had some excellent feedback, and I’ve been making adjustments as things progress.
And then came last week.
I was going to meet with one of my beta readers. He’s been reading every few weeks, as chapters have been tacked on. I suggested outdoors at a picnic table in one of our favorite parks.
He said no. He said his issues were too heavy to bother with sunshine and blue skies. He insisted on our usual spot—a Chinese buffet, $2.99-a-scoop sort of place.
Gulp.
Once I slurped the last bit of lo mein, he proceeded to take my head off with one clean slice of Valerian steel, if you know what I mean—and I think you do.
Whack.
The issue was critical, emotional. Identifying the problem required a great deal of focus and insight on his part. I got the feeling that he cared about my story as much as I do. That’s saying something. In some ways, a beta reader must read text more carefully than a casual future reader of your book.
I couldn’t have been happier. I left the meeting feeling buoyed and enthralled (especially after I reattached the aforementioned head to my neck).
He was right, of course. He saw things I couldn’t see because I was too darn close to the story. And it got me to feeling how fortunate I am, to have beta readers who lay it all out.
So I’m here today with a simple question: Are your beta readers too nice? Do they go too easy on you? If so, get yourself some new critics. And: Are you too nice when you read someone else’s work?
Do it right. I’m not saying be mean; I’m saying give it your all. Your writer pals are depending on you, too.
I’m with you on this all the way, Mark. I have a great beta reader who won’t pull any punches. If she struggles with something or just plain doesn’t like it, I know I need to really take a close look at it. A beta reader who sugar coats their issues with our writing isn’t doing any one any good.
Thanks Terri! Sugar coating — exactly. Not needed!
Excellent!
Thanks Scott !
I agree — a beta reader who’s easy on us is not really helping.
Thanks, Pat !
Ooh, we all want your beta reader, Mark! 🙂 Let me take this opportunity to say I dearly love my critique group. Twenty-two years, and they’ve never once been nice. hahahaha
That’s a lot of ‘not nice’ !! Awesome.
My head has been bitten off after giving honest criticism… for an hour. Many writers can’t take criticism. They take it personally. Writers are in the entertainment business and are creating a product. I want my product to be the best it can be.
I was an artist before becoming a writer so my work was critiqued all through college. I learned to separate myself from my work and not take it personally. I wanted to learn. The only way to learn is to realize my mistakes and fix them.
Recently, I sent my opening to one of my most critical readers. I knew she would be harsh. That’s why I sent it to her. She pointed out several problems. I thanked her so much for ripping it apart. My manuscript really benefited from the critique.
The way I look at it, one person represents a percentage of readers. I’d much rather learn about what doesn’t work and fix the problem now before I learn about it in a review!!
Agreed Susie. Agreed. And I suppose a worthy follow-up column would be more precise about HOW to give that feedback … and also how to receive it, too.
I always vet beta-readers ahead of time before I bring them on as a regular. If they’re too nice, or they know something is wrong but cannot articulate what that is — they will not be asked back. I am so very thankful for my brutally honest beta team, and my editors. The hard part is when someone on your team moves on and you have to replace them. It can take a few tries to get someone with the ability to be completely honest.