elihinze's review against another edition
4.0
Good for people getting into editing their work. Perhaps more of a beginner book, but a valuable review nonetheless. If you're starting out editing (not writing, but EDITING), this is the book for you.
writehollydavis's review against another edition
5.0
This book was so helpful to hear about how to improve your manuscript and make agents and editors want it from an actual agent! It was so comprehensive and goes beyond 'the first five pages' to helping you with your whole manuscript. I love how he covers a certain topic, gives examples, and then has writing exercises at the end of each chapter (essentially implementing editing strategies into your current WIP). Highly recommended!
lkmreads's review against another edition
Reviewer Kelly H. said it better.
This book, for some odd reason, totally pissed me off. I think it was the way it was written, it sounded almost condescending at times. I couldn't get too far in it at all.
This book, for some odd reason, totally pissed me off. I think it was the way it was written, it sounded almost condescending at times. I couldn't get too far in it at all.
dylanperry's review against another edition
4.0
A practical guide on how to improve your manuscript and to keep agents, editors, and readers' attention during those crucial first pages and beyond. It wasn't a game-changer, but I found a number of sections worth highlighting for later. Even some of the exercises--which I usually skip--have helped my own writing, particularly the ones from the similie/metaphor chapter.
If you are or know a writer looking for some help with revision, I'd recommend checking this one out. 4.5/5
If you are or know a writer looking for some help with revision, I'd recommend checking this one out. 4.5/5
jtisreading's review against another edition
4.0
I know there are a lot of negative views about some of the simplicity to this book. I would suggest the simplicity of it makes it work. Once you read this book it becomes a valuable tool of gentle reminders and reference points for the revision and editing process. If you are beginning to write it is invaluable. The seasoned writer will also want to partake at times. An important book for the collection.
krismoon's review against another edition
4.0
Although the information is somewhat basic, it's still very important. I especially loved the quotes Lukeman chose before every chapter.
sethlynch's review against another edition
3.0
This is a good reference guide. The end of chapter exercises annoyed me a little bit as I felt they were just a gimmick to fill up space.
I have read a few self-edit and writing books. Before reading this one you should read On Writing by Stephen King and Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King.
I have read a few self-edit and writing books. Before reading this one you should read On Writing by Stephen King and Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King.