I have 10 beta readers. I find that is plenty as most have been with me from the beginning and they are not afraid to tell me the truth when it needs to be told, and they are usually right.
Great article, Boo. I’ve had the same beta readers since my first book, adding a few on the way. They’re an integral part of my process and worth their weight in gold.
The stars align again. I just got coached by Camille Pagán on beta reading for you. I’m so stoked—and terrified! I was like, I think I bit off more than I can chew, and what if I get it wrong? What if I offend him, or my feedback isn’t helpful?
Camille told me to ask you what you were looking for, and to trust myself. This post gave me exactly what I need! 💃💃💃
I sent my last draft to 21 beta readers (13 got back to me). From what my writing friends said, asking for feedback from that many people was unheard of. Most of them ask 0-3 people.
I like the chorus of voices letting me know what’s working, what’s confusing, catching typos, word echos, or confusing sentences. Plot holes and things that offend. And like you said, they offer suggestions and insights that I never thought of. I love knowing how they helped you!
And I love knowing you make mistakes (!) and that you rely on a lot of beta readers. Next time, I’ll do them in stages and name the groups by character.
I created a living document where I copied all my of their inline comments under one chapter. Then I consider it when I edit, and check it off as I revise. How do you keep track of it all?
I should have written about how I keep track of it all... hmmm. Another post maybe. Or I'll add to it. As readers get back to me, I go through their document, making all the changes I agree with before moving onto anything else. If there are lingering suggestions, things I can't quite decide on, or items that will take an hour or more to complete, I add a comment in Microsoft word into my main document. I also have a living document in Scrivener called The Brain, and in one section, I have changes I'm considering, changes I need to make, etc. As the feedback piles up, I add to those. I always have my main manuscript marked up with my comments, plus the scrivener doc open and going at all times!
Also, do not be worried about beta reading! Just have fun! The beauty of everyone being so different is that you might only have one comment but it could seriously elevate the work!
I’m loving the new focus on craft, Boo, and learning a lot!
Taking criticism is really hard I think; nice to know really good writers, (ie you!) take it hard sometimes too! I appreciate how you manage all of the feedback you get, positive and negative and how it affects you personally and your writing.
I was never quite sure about beta readers, but now I have a baseline from which to explore! And set up boundaries to protect myself! Keep up the good work, Boo- you’re awesome!
PS: I finished my reread of the Red Mountain series and now thick into Otis and Rebecca’s story; I’m gonna be sorry when it all ends. But looking forward to the next book! My two favorite subjects: bookstores and Italy! Can’t wait! ❤️
I have 10 beta readers. I find that is plenty as most have been with me from the beginning and they are not afraid to tell me the truth when it needs to be told, and they are usually right.
Great article, Boo. I’ve had the same beta readers since my first book, adding a few on the way. They’re an integral part of my process and worth their weight in gold.
yes, sir! how many do you use now?
I absolutely LOVE being on Team Boo Walker! I get excited every time I see an email with BETA somewhere in the subject - keep them coming.
And yes, you do like to use the word ‘actually’!
hahha. Actually, I'm actually working on actually stopping.
Great article! You never fail to show your appreciation for your beta reading team. I'm excited to read the new book!
yay!
The stars align again. I just got coached by Camille Pagán on beta reading for you. I’m so stoked—and terrified! I was like, I think I bit off more than I can chew, and what if I get it wrong? What if I offend him, or my feedback isn’t helpful?
Camille told me to ask you what you were looking for, and to trust myself. This post gave me exactly what I need! 💃💃💃
I sent my last draft to 21 beta readers (13 got back to me). From what my writing friends said, asking for feedback from that many people was unheard of. Most of them ask 0-3 people.
I like the chorus of voices letting me know what’s working, what’s confusing, catching typos, word echos, or confusing sentences. Plot holes and things that offend. And like you said, they offer suggestions and insights that I never thought of. I love knowing how they helped you!
And I love knowing you make mistakes (!) and that you rely on a lot of beta readers. Next time, I’ll do them in stages and name the groups by character.
I created a living document where I copied all my of their inline comments under one chapter. Then I consider it when I edit, and check it off as I revise. How do you keep track of it all?
Love it! Tell Camille hi. I'm a big fan.
I should have written about how I keep track of it all... hmmm. Another post maybe. Or I'll add to it. As readers get back to me, I go through their document, making all the changes I agree with before moving onto anything else. If there are lingering suggestions, things I can't quite decide on, or items that will take an hour or more to complete, I add a comment in Microsoft word into my main document. I also have a living document in Scrivener called The Brain, and in one section, I have changes I'm considering, changes I need to make, etc. As the feedback piles up, I add to those. I always have my main manuscript marked up with my comments, plus the scrivener doc open and going at all times!
Also, do not be worried about beta reading! Just have fun! The beauty of everyone being so different is that you might only have one comment but it could seriously elevate the work!
I love having been chosen long ago as a beta reader. It’s been a joy. Thank you again Boo.
I’m loving the new focus on craft, Boo, and learning a lot!
Taking criticism is really hard I think; nice to know really good writers, (ie you!) take it hard sometimes too! I appreciate how you manage all of the feedback you get, positive and negative and how it affects you personally and your writing.
I was never quite sure about beta readers, but now I have a baseline from which to explore! And set up boundaries to protect myself! Keep up the good work, Boo- you’re awesome!
PS: I finished my reread of the Red Mountain series and now thick into Otis and Rebecca’s story; I’m gonna be sorry when it all ends. But looking forward to the next book! My two favorite subjects: bookstores and Italy! Can’t wait! ❤️
You're so kind, thank you. I love bookstores and Italy too! stay in touch.
Thank you for your description of what beta readers do. It's something I've wondered about.
you are so welcome!