Writers have always relied on editors for feedback and perspective. The concept of working with a book coach, however, is relatively new. You may be wondering if it would be right for you.
If you want feedback on what's working and what still needs improvement in your manuscript, traditional editing is probably all you need.
Book coaching offers the sustained attention of an editor who will support your writing over an extended period of time.
This can be especially helpful if you need to address issues related to emotions. Not a character's emotions -- yours.
I'm talking about the thoughts and feelings that interfere with the creative process. Just to name a few:
- Self-doubt
- Fear
- Shame
- Lack of motivation
- An overall sense of existential doom
Admittedly, resolving existential doom might be somewhat beyond my expertise. We'll have to wait for scientists to work out the details on cryonics to solve that one. But these emotions can be deadly when it comes to making progress with your book.
Book coaching allows for the time and continuity that help make it possible to address the emotional barriers that interfere with the writing process. This means a book coach has the chance to:
- become familiar with your skills, your foibles, your strengths, your self-destructive tendencies.
- know how the manuscript has evolved and where you want it to go.
- talk out the possibilities when you don't know what to do with the story.
I take the process of book coaching seriously.
I aim for honesty that is tempered with sensitivity.
I try to strike a balance between pushing -- but not too hard.
I strive to make insights that will inspire you.
Also, it should be fun.
Writing isn't all torture and angst. And if part of this process doesn't involve fun, then it isn't working. As it happens, the most enjoyable part of creating your book is often the time spent talking about it with other people.
Book Coaching is a big commitment for both of us.
It's essential that we feel comfortable working with each other. The process is better for both of us when the work resonates for me. Before entering into this partnership, we might want to begin with a manuscript evaluation or a developmental edit of one or two chapters.
I can't guarantee that your work will find a publisher after working with me. The publishing industry is notoriously competitive, serendipitous, and random. The only ways this endeavor is within a writer's control is to make the work as good as it can be and to persevere. My role is to support you as best I can in the quest.
