If you were writing a book. . .

[2gbmum]

If you were writing a book, would you let anyone read it before sending it off to publishers/agents?

[popsickle]

yeh either sum 1 you trust completely or someone who couldn't write and therefore couldn't steal your idea.....
but yeh its always useful to get someone elses opinion....

[bravejordy]

I would probably let them read the first couple of chapters - but even then it would have to be someone I really trust - and if they liked it, I'd let them read the rest. If on the other hand, they didn't seem too impressed with the first two chapters, I wouldn't bother showing them the rest.

[andy-hughes]

I wouldn't.

As a freelance writer, I never really like what I have written, and even now, after twenty-seven years of published features, I still feel uncomfortable knowing that my Editors are going to read my material, and that has to happen, so I make myself not think about it. As for family and friends, I would never let them see anything until it is in print, and beyond editing.

Even at gigs, when I am reviewing bands, I a almost always get someone asking to see my notebook to read my notes about eh gig, and the answer is always 'No'. Makes me look precious and snooty, but i really don;t care, it's my peace of mind that matters, not the opinion of a stranger.

I am collaborating on a biography with a well-known musician, and thus far, my transcripts are kept away from everyone until i get things into shape, when obviously he can read them, but only him, no-one else.

[saxy_jag]

Absolutely, especially if you're unpublished. You need to know if what you've got is worth submitting. Finding someone you trust to give an honest opinion, however ...

[China Doll]

I might show Andy actually but I'm a faceless entity so that might not be so bad as showing someone I know.

However no, I don't show people my work as I don't have much confidence in it and it's not really for public consumption anyway.

[andy-hughes]

Hello China

I remember - we did embark on the concept of me having a look at your writing - and it was fine, nothing to be worried about.

If you want to send me some more - feel free.

A x

[4GS]

Andy
You kindly said you'd ghost write for me a while back last year, we corresponded by email, you thought I was W-M.

I must apologise and regretfully say that, due to circumstances, one of which you had concerns about (legalities) I am unable to continue with the project. Unfortunately the Official Secrets Act bars me from writing any memoirs for the time being.

I'd like to take this opportunity to publicly thank you for your offer of help and, hopefully we can get our heads together sometime in the future

[China Doll]

Thank you Andy.

[andy-hughes]

4GS

Nice of you to apologise, but not necessary from my point of view. If at any time you wish to run anything by me, please feel free.

Same for you China Doll, or drop me a line for a chat if you are feeling a bit bored.

[email protected]

[ann_h]

I remember a chap at college showing me a draft his wife had written, asking me to check it over for spelling etc and give my opinion.
I quickly discovered I would have to look long and hard for things like sentences, and decided not to give my opinion on the content (all of the stories in an edition of Pick Me Up -per chapter)

He was cross anyway.