No one can write your book for you, and there is no guarantee that you will be published. You have to be able to take the information and use it to your advantage. Before you consider applying for an assessment of your manuscript or mentorship, consider the following questions:
1. Is your writing fit to read?
Your manuscript will have been read by several friends and relations and is now ready to be read by a stranger. It needs to be correctly formatted for submission (as you would prepare it to send to a publisher). It should be formatted for A4 in 12 point type (preferably Times New Roman), and pagination. The title page should include the title, your name and the word count and your contact details.
2. Is there an audience for your work?
If you are writing for sheer pleasure, you won't be concerned by this question, but if you are hoping to be published, you know that writing is a very competitive business. Does your book have a wider audience? Do you know which publishers' imprints would best suit your work? Can you name a list of authors whose writing your work most resembles? Are you sure of its genre? Can you explain why people would pay money to read your book? Can you articulate why the world needs to know your story? Trees will die for your book. Can you justify this?
3. Can you accept criticism?
There is no point in submitting your writing for appraisal without being tough enough to take on board constructive criticism. You will receive a detailed report which is designed to give professional and honest advice and feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of your work. Do you see criticism as a positive step towards improving your craft?
If you've answered yes to these three questions, email us to discuss your needs.
