Kia ora,
When it comes to working with writers, my biggest value is trust. You need to trust me with your manuscript, story, and vision. Sharing your work with someone can be a vulnerable experience, and that trust is not something I take lightly.
That’s why I always ask to see your manuscript before we start working together. I need to see what the manuscript is like so I can offer the most appropriate type of editing. And you need to see what types of changes and comments I make.
If you come to me saying you just need a proofread, but I see bigger issues, I can’t in good conscience say, “sure, no problem, I can do a proofread.” I’ll let you know what issues I’m seeing, show ways I can help work on those issues, and then leave you to make the decision.
Trust is crucial for readers, too, especially for the travel memoir genre. Readers need to believe your story, that the events you report really happened. Yes, you can fudge some details (to protect someone’s identity, for example, or to simplify an overly complicated or boring situation), but ultimately, you’re writing non-fiction, so be honest and tell your story as accurately as you can.
Cheers,
Deborah
PS. Last week I asked which blog post to work on next. “How to write flashbacks” got the most replies. I’ll let you know when the article is ready.
PPS. Author and journalist Sophy Roberts has a new season of her podcast Gone to Timbuktu. Her first episode is with none other than Paul Theroux. The Great Railway Bazaar got me hooked on the travel genre many years ago.
The interview is full of gems, including writing advice, but my favourite was Paul’s discussion on reading. To know a writer, you need to read their work. And to know a person, you need to read what they read. I’ve been thinking about that a lot this week. Check out the episode on Spotify.
📚 What I’m reading
Around the World in 80 Years, by Ranulph Fiennes.
(I know, I know. I’ve been reading this for what feels like 80 years. But I got distracted by library books, so I’m trying to race through those before I need to return them. I haven’t forgotten you, Ranulph!)
📅 Availability
Currently booking manuscripts from May. If you’re thinking of getting your manuscript edited, do get in touch now to book your spot.
✍️ Ways to work with me
Apply for a free sample edit (there’s that trust thing again! See how I work to find out if you like my style)
Get your manuscript evaluation
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Deborah Shaw Adventure Editing 