Do What You Love, Love What You Do
I really enjoy reading books by local authors. With our new writing company, I get to read books that are in the early stages of development, or at the manuscript level. My brain loves looking for continuity. I love the challenge and the excitement of words on the page. Making sure that the story makes sense and that it flows nicely. Also, leaving comments when something could be more exciting, or if it seems too unbelievable, or if a character is wildly unlikeable.
Some might wonder if it is too rough to enjoy a book that is in the throes of coming together. The answer is not simple…but it is straight: I love it so much. I really enjoy being part of the process, and it makes me feel useful. I want to help an author to have the best and strongest piece of work.
I am working on another book by a Seattle author, the third one of theirs that I have been lucky enough to help edit. It is a magical thing to watch a writer who is good at what they do simply get better. They informed me nervously that this was just their first draft, and I know in my heart they aim for me to not be too tough. I am not tough, but I am very intentional about the comments that I make. I do it with love and I know no other way to be. The author’s story is unfolding rather nicely. Years ago, when we first started working together, their beginnings were a little stumbly and slow, and now the story seems to be developing with a lot less struggle. It is really lovely to watch them progress through the years.
It takes me a minute to read a book. I am not a fast reader. I think that my slowness works to my benefit when it comes to taking my time and being thorough while editing. Manuscripts and works-in-progress take longer to read than a regular novel, due to flow and inconsistencies, etc. So when I am reading a manuscript, I carve out intentional time to sit with it and make my comments. Working with authors has been such a great experience, and, because they are artists, each one is so individual with their beliefs, talents, and styles. I am lucky in that I get to do what I love, and I am intentional in making sure that I love what I do.