Writers’ Critique Groups

A couple weeks ago, I read my Middle Grade novel, Sentient.  After so many critiques (one from my writers’ group and one professional), rewrites and readings, I still found errors that I needed to fix.  My group, Breathe, is a great group, but sometimes it’s impossible to see everything in one session.

Writers’ groups are an indispensable tool for a writer.  But, it’s important to get into a good one.  A group that does nothing but pat each other on the back is worthless.  Likewise, one that has no writers your level is also worthless.  Try to find one that works hard at making each other the best they can be and has a good mix of writers at all levels of their profession.  You always need someone at your level or better.  And as for those being less advanced than you, they’ll contribute, too (even while they’re learning).

One last word of advice:  While a good critique will give points on words/lines that can be reworded and strengthened, someone who wants you to write your story their way should be avoided and should be encouraged to write their own story.

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