When I started writing, I understood the writing process. I knew the importance of learning as much as possible about the craft as well as the publishing industry. But it took me a while to learn the importance of feedback from other writers.
Comments from my critique partners (and group) have helped me become a much better writer. Each of the critiquers have strengths and contribute to my work in important ways.
I met my first critique partner at a writing workshop. Another I met in an online kidlit writing group. We began exchanging magazine articles, picture book manuscripts, and chapters of longer work. We even share cover letters and resumes.
My writing partners point out big picture weaknesses (and strengths) as well as minor word choice possibilities for improvement. I expected that. One thing that surprised me was how much I learned by studying their writing pieces. As I read their writing, much of their writing techniques resonated with me. So…I improved even more.
We become better writers as we share manuscripts with one another.
Accountability
Reading
Time
Critique partners provide much of that accountability that makes me a better writer—a successful writer. Thanks to them, books like The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion: A Chapter-by-Chapter Guide and the picture book Whooo Knew? The Truth about Owls are two of my new books.
