Writing on the Collaboration Train

by Lida Sideris

Writing, for the most part, is a solitary act. But only up to a point. Once we’re at the revised manuscript stage (the stage where a writer is not embarrassed to share his/her written words with third parties), writers need a little help when it comes to whipping the novel into tip-top shape. It’s not easy pulling together thoughts, story-lines, characters, and twisty plots out of our imaginations, and onto the page. 

We also appreciate help in promoting our books. 

As the “conductor” of our manuscripts, we need an engineer, mechanics, and baggage handlers. Here’s a list of a few important crew members and collaborators:

1. Beta Readers
These are non-professional readers to whom we hand off our manuscripts and ask for constructive feedback. It helps to formulate questions to give these special crew members to keep them from getting sidetracked. Beta readers are book lovers who know your genre and who are generous with their time. I don’t want to blow smoke, but I find my beta readers invaluable.

2. Editors
Unless you’ve got stellar, proven editor skills yourself, an editor plays a key role in pointing out potential stumbling blocks, including:
– Holes where a writer can get derailed, or trip and fall in the plot;
– Character flaws or traits that don’t work;
– Excess (do you really need that scene where the dog chases the train?)

3. Publishers
These experts know what to do to get the book out into the world, leaving writers to do what they love: write. Having a solid publisher in a writer’s bandwagon is a plus.

4. Other Authors
Partnering up for book events with other authors can help provide the bells and whistles needed to promote one’s book. A pairing with the right author(s) can give each panelist at a book event a boost and a chance to breathe, relax, and enjoy the ride. The wonderful friendship we Sleuths & Sidekicks share began when we teamed up during the pandemic to virtually promote our books. Our events exceeded our expectations and continue going strong more than two years later. We’ve expanded our efforts to include teaching online writing workshops covering everything from tricks of the trade to how to keep readers guessing whodunit. More workshops coming in 2023!

5. Book stores, librarians, conference organizers, book tour hosts
And any other book angels out there who help writers to market and promote their precious book babies.

Collaboration is a writer’s friend. It’s the collaborators who help writers progress and enjoy the writing journey.

Header photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash