Reviews
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers: How to Edit Yourself Into Print by Dave King, Renni Browne
saralynnburnett's review against another edition
4.0
Dear everyone I ever asked to read a draft of mine prior to my reading this book - I am so sorry! As someone taking their first steps into writing - this was immensely helpful, especially the chapters on dialogue. I marked this book up and will be keeping it as a reference to revisit, often.
dellydoos's review against another edition
informative
medium-paced
3.0
I don't think I was quite prepared for this book, especially considering where I am in my own personal writing journey, but I'd still recommend it to other writers.
For me, Self Editing for Fiction Writers seemed better suited for a time when I could sit down with my writing and analyze it bit by bit. But as of now, I haven't completed a first draft yet, so I might be jumping the gun here. Still, the book helped me to identify certain aspects of my writing that I could work on in the meantime. Elements such as voice, repetition, and sophistication were all areas that the book delved into with useful tips and examples. Even though I wasn't able to apply everything immediately, I appreciated gaining this knowledge early on in my writing journey.
However, I did find the examples/excerpts a little boring to be honest, since I hadn't read nearly any of the novels mentioned. It would have been more beneficial to have contemporary examples from a wider range of genres and styles to resonate with a broader audience of aspiring writers.
Regardless, I'm glad I own this book. It's one I'll be reaching for in the future as I battle through the relentless onslaught that is editing.
For me, Self Editing for Fiction Writers seemed better suited for a time when I could sit down with my writing and analyze it bit by bit. But as of now, I haven't completed a first draft yet, so I might be jumping the gun here. Still, the book helped me to identify certain aspects of my writing that I could work on in the meantime. Elements such as voice, repetition, and sophistication were all areas that the book delved into with useful tips and examples. Even though I wasn't able to apply everything immediately, I appreciated gaining this knowledge early on in my writing journey.
However, I did find the examples/excerpts a little boring to be honest, since I hadn't read nearly any of the novels mentioned. It would have been more beneficial to have contemporary examples from a wider range of genres and styles to resonate with a broader audience of aspiring writers.
Regardless, I'm glad I own this book. It's one I'll be reaching for in the future as I battle through the relentless onslaught that is editing.
ijustreadthisbook's review against another edition
informative
lighthearted
slow-paced
5.0
the more you know *insert rainbow*
writehollydavis's review against another edition
5.0
This will be a go-to reference for me as I edit all of my future works. With checklists and exercises, this book is extremely helpful and comprehensive. It addresses show and tell, exposition, proportion, dialogue mechanics, interior monologue, beats, voice, and more! A must-read!
1001reads's review against another edition
5.0
Amazing-such an invaluable resource for anyone trying to edit their own work. Love the checklists at the end of each chapter too; I’m going to adapt those into editing worksheets for myself.
yoannna's review against another edition
5.0
I wonderful book on craft with lots of examples - which are especially useful to me - and exercises. Very easily digestible as well, which is not a given with instructional books.
Too bad I didn't read it earlier, but I'm just happy I have it on hand.
Too bad I didn't read it earlier, but I'm just happy I have it on hand.