Beta readers--the behind-the-scene-crew to every great novel. And there seems to be a dearth of them. Before I go on, perhaps I should explain just exactly what is a beta reader. Basically, a beta reader is kind of like an informal editor. Authors approach beta reader to read a manuscript that has been lightly edited, but not quite ready to be published yet. Finding a good beta reader is important for authors because beta readers provide insight and (hopefully) honest feedback on the manuscript. However, it should be made clear that beta readers are not editors. Sure, we might correct a misspelled word here and there, but our main job is provide our opinions of the actual story itself. Did the plot flow well? Were there any loop holes? Were the characters lovable? A good beta reader should provide feedback on such points.
So, are you interested in being a beta reader yet? As I mentioned before, it seems as if there is a lack of beta readers. Being a beta reader is a rewarding experience, especially once the novel you helped get published into a book. There are many authors out there looking for beta readers to help polish their novel. Head on over to Goodreads and checkout The Beta Reader Group's forum and threads to connect with authors!
And now, here are some tips to make your beta reading experience enjoyable:
So, are you interested in being a beta reader yet? As I mentioned before, it seems as if there is a lack of beta readers. Being a beta reader is a rewarding experience, especially once the novel you helped get published into a book. There are many authors out there looking for beta readers to help polish their novel. Head on over to Goodreads and checkout The Beta Reader Group's forum and threads to connect with authors!
And now, here are some tips to make your beta reading experience enjoyable:
