Another Pair of Eyes (or Two or Three)

I’ve been fortunate enough to be in different critique groups for most of my writing career. I know. I know. Some people say that they don’t want to hear what others have to say about the strengths and weaknesses of their writing. I respect those opinions. But for me, being part of a writing community is crucial for maintaining a high level of energy in my work.

Don’t get me wrong. I wouldn’t value just anyone’s opinion. It’s important when forming a critique group, or joining one, that you find writers who share some of your same background and experiences. Otherwise, you can end up receiving advice from people who, frankly, don’t really know the industry or the current market. If possible, you want to find 4-6 active writers who share your desire to produce quality books for children, no matter the genre. And it’s an additional plus if they keep up with what’s being published and receiving awards.

What are the benefits of a critique group? The most valuable take-away for me is hearing what others really see, hear, think, or feel when they read my words. Sure, I know what my intention is, but that doesn’t mean I’ve pulled that off. An extra set of eyes comes to the page without any preconceptions. They read and absorb exactly what I’ve written. I’m delighted when they find phrases or concepts to celebrate, but equally thrilled when they find spots where my writing has fallen short.

Another advantage is reading other people’s work. It gives you perspective. We all need to get in there and draft and revise, again and again. It’s never easy for anyone, and yet sometimes at home alone in our offices, we think it must be easier for EVERYONE but us.  I learn so much about the craft from reading other’s works-in-progress. And since we are all different in subject matter, style, tone, and audience, we get an inside view that helps us take risks with our own writing.

And the discussions are phenomenal. Each meeting one element of our work launches us into a healthy conversation. This helps us all clarify some aspect of the craft, the market, or our own writer habits. Nothing better than talking shop with like-minded people!

I’m doing something now I’ve never done before. Not only do I attend a local critique group once a month, but I’m also participating long-distance in another group that meets out-of-state. Two groups with two entirely different personalities. I’m excited to see where this leads.