Totally Edited
Totally Edited offers book editing and manuscript
assessment services. These services can be described as developmental.
Developmental editing is concerned with how writing works as a whole. It can be
defined as a set of tools which assist writers to overcome obstacles in the
writing process and maximise the appeal of their writing to prospective
publishers.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
What are the guiding principles I follow when
working with writers? I consider communication skill even more important than
technical skill. Communication with writers should always be productive,
respectful and informed. Listening to what writers want and responding to
priority concerns, I offer constructive feedback, praising achievements and
building on strengths. Meeting the author where they are, I assist in the next
step up, whatever that may be. Suggestions made are supported by evidence,
examples, reasoning and clarity. I help the writer think through what’s working
and what’s not, allowing them to make their own decisions.
THE STEPS I FOLLOW
How about the steps I follow when working with a
writer? Preliminary queries and a writing sample can be valuable in
understanding the intention of a writer, skill levels and writing background.
It’s important to ascertain the scope of the editorial work required and
whether I’m the right editor for the job. Email correspondence is ideal in the
early stages and can be followed up later by face-to-face meetings or Skype. On
the basis of clear expectations a contract is entered into and the editing work
begins. This work consists of reading through a manuscript often twice, taking
detailed notes and writing a formal critique letter.
THE EDITORIAL LETTER
What can this editorial letter cover? Depending
upon the type of manuscript being edited and the priorities of the writer, the
letter can cover issues such as: theme, audience, general structure, plots and
storylines, character and point of view, scene and summary and the reflective
voice, dialog and interior monologue, chronology and moving around in time,
narrative shape and pacing, settings and historical time periods, voice and
tone, imagery, devices, and any global language use issues. As described, I
will always gear the letter towards accomplishing the goals of the writer.
Material will be presented in an organised and positive manner.