Beta Readers: Part One

First off, what - exactly - is a beta reader?

A beta reader is simply a person who is willing to carefully read an unpublished work of fiction and offer constructive criticism. In writing, the beta fiction is what lies between the rough draft (the alpha manuscript) and the finished product that is submitted to the publisher. When submitting a work to a beta reader, it is the writer's responsibility to polish her manuscript as much as she can. The beta reader should be reading a complete work (that is, there should be an ending!)

Beta readers are very valuable people. Often, they can point out plot holes that you've missed or catch a misplaced or missing word. They can tell you if your characters seem realistic and if your dialogue sounds natural. Almost always, beta readers are writers themselves, so they are accustomed to thinking about such things as plot, setting, voice, and tension. They can correctly use terms like, 'speech tags' and 'protagonist'. You might have a family member or close, supportive friend who is willing to read your work, but oftentimes they do not make the best beta readers. Not only will they want to spare your feelings by telling you that your work is 'good' (even if it isn't), but they might not know exactly how you should improve your story.

My husband, for example, is an avid reader and a thoughtful, intelligent person. However, he is not a writer and is therefore a terrible beta reader; he simply can't tell me what the problems in my stories are. Having him try to advise me on writing would be like me trying to advise an auto mechanic on how to fix my car. Since I know nothing about cars, all I can do is tell them that I hear a clunking sound or feel a hesitation when I step on the gas. I certainly can't tell them were to start looking for the problem or how to fix it!

So, if you aren't already doing this, I strongly suggest that you find a beta reader. In my next post, I will tell you of some excellent online sources for beta readers as well as give advice on how to become a beta reader yourself.

Give Me a "J" and a "YA"!! - Great Links for Writers of Children's Fiction

There are many, many great online resources for writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. In fact, these genres can sometimes seem to dominate the cyber-world. But what if spacemen and dragons are not your forte?

Not to fear!

Here are some terrific links that focus on the needs of children's fiction writers.

The Official Jane Yolen website - Jane Yolen, one of the most prolific writers of children's picture books, gives helpful advice to would-be writers along with links to helpful websites.

Harold Underdown - His website is chocked full of information for all kinds of writers, though he specializes in children's fiction. The article, "Getting Out of the Slushpile" should be read by everyone!

What, exactly, qualifies a book to be YA? Or J? The Write4Kids website can tell you! In addition to many great articles on writing children's fiction, this site offers tools for writers, links, and other helpful information.

Then there are the agent blogs. Here is a brief list of agents who accept children's fiction and blog:

• Jennifer Jackson


• Sarah Davis


• Kate Schafer Testerman


• Sara Crowe

Why Do You Want to Be a Writer?

Think this isn't an important question? Well, think again!

Some people envision writing as an easy path to fame and fortune. "Look out Jane Austin and J.K. Rowling! Make way for (insert name here)."

Others want to make a living doing what they love. "I love to write. I write all the time. Wouldn't it be great to get paid to do something I'm doing already for free?"

Then there are those who feel that they don't have anything else to do. "I lost my job; what else am I going to do but write?" Or... "I'm graduating from high school in four months, I need to find a way to make a living." Or... "My kids are grown up, and I need a hobby. Writing seems like a good idea."

Understanding why you want to become a writer (and, possibly, an author) is an important first step because your motivation will impact your goals, your habits and your outlook.