Give a Ways and Critiquing

Hey everyone, there is a great give a way going on over at Christina Katz - The Prosperous Writer's site. It it not just a give-a-way, but an entire Month of May Give-a-Way! Go over here and check it out. Be sure and read the rules. You will find out a lot about writers and writing, plus have a chance at winning books.

 I haven't been posting a lot lately. I've been submerged in my writing. I don't know how people post regularly and write, too. I'm one of those people who has too many pots on the stove, as the old saying goes. But, I can't help it. I love writing!

My on line PB critique group is in full swing. I've really gotten some good feedback on two of my picture books that I felt needed help. I've now rewritten them and feel they are much better. I am so glad I joined!

My weekly writing group meets at our local library every Tuesday. I am happy to say that we have new members and they are a great addition to our group. I get feedback from all my writing there, not just my PBs.

 How do you react to people's comments about your writing? Can you take criticism gracefully?

There are a couple of categories you can fall into.

You can be thankful for all comments, know that they are only another person's opinion, use the suggestions you feel are helpful to your manuscript and make your work better.

Or - you can take all comments personally, not agree with any of the suggestions and not use any help offered to you about your writing.

 I try not to fit into that second category. Though, sometimes I slip into the defensive mode, how dare people not love my work!  But in my opinion, if you can't take the heat, then get away from the fire. Writer's groups are people meeting to help each other, not just a group to get praise and applause from.

Writers Helping Writers!

Posted by Janet F. Smart at Creative Writing in the Blackberry Patch.
©Janet F. Smart