Yes, I think that’s going to be the title of my upcoming online workshop—Common Sense Self-Editing for Authors. I already told you I am in the process of designing an online memoir-writing workshop and I am also considering this self-editing workshop for authors, as well.
The concept of editing intimidates some authors. Those who are not intimidated by the thought of editing their manuscripts to perfection, probably don’t, yet, understand much about writing a book for publication. If you aren’t aware of the importance of good writing, you may not actually recognize it when you see it.
I know authors (or shall we call them would-be authors) who cannot distinguish between good and poor writing. They seem to believe that, because they “get” what they’ve written, others will, too. They know what they are attempting to say and they think that everyone else will also grasp it. These people cannot see problematic sentences. They know what the sentence is supposed to say and they believe that everyone else will, too. They don’t notice when they use incorrect words. If it works for them, it must be right. And if their spell-check doesn’t kick in, then they know for sure it is correct.
I wonder if some of these writers even care if they are connecting in a meaningful way with their readers. Or do they simply want to make a statement, say their piece, spill their guts, get it off their chest and/or experience the prestige of being a published author?
I believe that even these authors have some inkling that they need at least a little help with their way of writing. And what better method of improving your manuscript and learning techniques to apply in the future, than from the comfort and in the privacy of your home with the personal guidance of an experienced writer/author/editor/teacher. Yes, I think that Common Sense Self-Editing for Authors would be a welcome and valuable course (and maybe later, a book). But then, reading a book is far different from the hands-on process of learning that you can receive through a personalized, on-line, email course.
So what do you think? Is it something you’d like to do for yourself in order to improve your writing and self-editing techniques? I doubt that you’ll find this sort of on-hands process anywhere else. What an opportunity!
An expression of interest will prompt me to put this project on the front burner. Just let me know your thoughts: PLFry620@yahoo.com.
Catscapades Update
We received the proof for the new cover of Catscapades, True Cat Tales from 360 Digital Books yesterday and it is SCRUMPTIOUS. Love it! If you want copies of this charming book of true cat stories for Mother’s Day, order them now. Specify to me via my email address whether you want the book with the original cover—it has hot pink in areas where it is supposed to be black—or if you want to wait for the newly bound book. It will be here in time for Mother’s Day giving. These copies are limited, so reserve yours now. Learn more about this delightful book at: http://www.matilijapress.com/catscapades.html
Bobbie Florio Graham, and her cat, Terzo, introduced Catscapades in their Meow Newsletter yesterday. Thank you, Bobbi.
To learn more about Patricia Fry and Matilija Press, spend some time here: http://www.matilijapress.com