Just in time for the New Year, I’ve presented five of my friends with a gift: the first section of my book.
Of course, they’re really the ones giving me the gift. These generous people have offered to read my travel memoir, front-to-back, and offer suggestions.
A handful of writerly friends have read pieces of the book, critiqued chapters here and there, but these five will be the first to read it in order, in full. I’m handing over Part I now, and I’ll offer Parts II and III as soon as I’ve finished revising them.
Yes, that means I’m not done revising, that I missed my January 1 goal. But I’m about two-thirds through, and I have to remind myself that’s solid progress.
Who are my lucky readers? I trust each one to give me quality, honest feedback. They’ve got a mix of perspectives. And only one has read even a piece of my book until now, meaning they probably don’t know what to expect.
Two journalist friends. A writer friend from college. My uncle, a college professor and avid traveler who reads tons of travel books. And one awesome friend who’s not a writer, who I’m hoping will read the manuscript like many of my future readers will — like a regular person. (No, I don’t need any more readers. Thank you for your offers, but I’ve got to leave a few of you to read the book when it’s published!)
Part I: West Africa is now in their hands. Am I nervous? A little. I have put an entire year of my life (so far) into this project. But I have confidence in the story. And whatever suggestions, critiques and criticisms they offer will help me improve that story.
On with Lexi’s Book Club!
That’s wonderful! I agree, January 1 goal or not, you’ve made solid progress! Sounds like a good mix of readers for the feedback you’re looking for – very cool. Good luck with the rest of your revisions!
Don’t worry about your deadline, Alexis. You’re continuing to make progress and that’s what counts. Can’t wait to hear what your book club thinks.
Karen
That’s wonderful, Alexis. It is rather frightening putting our words out there, but it sounds like you have some wonderful friends to read, critique and enjoy your book so far.
Happy Wednesday and good luck with your continued
edits!
Jen
That is fantastic! And I think you picked a wonderful sundry group of readers for it 🙂
It’s always hard to put your stuff out there when you’ve put so much time and effort into something. I started getting the first section of my memoir critiqued a couple months ago and of course was a bit nervous. It’s great to have the feedback though.
It’s wonderful that you have trusted friends that will read your manuscript and give you feedback. It’s such a safe and wonderful way to grow as a writer. I’m curious: do you speak French?
Maryse