[Athelstone]

As a Beta Reader, you will be faced with a complete manuscript. This is a different world from the kind of critique we often have a try at, where an extract is on offer: maybe a paragraph or two, or at most a chapter. There are particular skills involved in being a good Beta Reader, but nobody should feel that they have to have all of them before volunteering.

The author may provide some guidelines. How precise or comprehensive these are will vary, but you could be asked to consider a part of the story (I’d like to know how well the ending works and how well the puzzle is explained), or an aspect (is the relationship between Jack and Jill convincing) or even matters of style and voice (I’m worried that I’m over-writing in places, such as …). And this is not exclusive by any means. It’s possible that the author has deadlines, too, so be prepared for a timescale (I’d love this back in the next six weeks if possible).

What is expected from a Beta Reader is the feedback of a thoughtful reader.

For example, let the author know the parts of the work you enjoy and those that you do not. This in itself may well be useful. Remember that the author is wrestling with a structure spread over many thousands of words. Knowing how you react to various parts of it can reveal what has been done well and what needs work. If possible, try to give your thoughts on why you feel as you do. Aim for as much detail as you can, but do not shy away from positive or negative feedback simply because you cannot put your finger on a reason.

It is natural for many people to avoid confrontation. Others seem to thrive on it. It is inevitable that when you are reading and reporting on what somebody has written, you will find yourself in a very personal situation. The author has delivered their work to you and, in all probability, will feel anxious, protective, hopeful, pessimistic (you name it, they’ll feel it). It is not your role to mollify a writer. Neither is it your role to antagonise or distress a writer. However, it is your role to be honest. With this is mind, do pay attention to how you deliver your opinions.

If you feel that a sentence is just awful, then it’s probably more useful to say ‘I feel that this sentence doesn’t work as you want, because …’, rather than, ‘This sentence is just awful.’

Similarly, ‘You didn’t write the relationship between Jack and Jill very well,’ is likely to annoy rather than inform. If the author gets angry or upset, or stops listening to you altogether, then you are both wasting time. Try working out why you weren’t convinced. Aim to explain the problems you had as a reader rather than passing judgement on the writer.

Remember to be honest, though. If you think there is a problem, raise the issue.

Give praise where praise is due. Writers are close to their work and often cannot see the story for the words. They need to know where a light touch or no touch at all is needed every bit as much as where the secateurs and the axe would help. If you were moved to tears by the exquisitely crafted Jack and Jill story, then say so. Do not let Jill be re-written as a psycho-killer by a nervous author.

It’s worth saying that a Beta Reader is not an editor. Unless the author has clearly indicated that editorial remarks are fine, avoid focusing on this sort of advice. This can be tricky and, of course, there will be times when what you want to say as a reader is the same sort of thing that an editor might offer. If in doubt, ask yourself whether you are feeding back information on how the book strikes you as a reader, or attempting to help with rewriting the text. Your primary concern should be the former.

Here are some general tips:

• If you can manage two reads, then that’s the gold-standard. But it can be hard work, so don’t rush or force yourself.
• Do get into the habit of making notes as you go – including page numbers. It’s so much easier than searching the manuscript for hours after the event.
• Be honest and be fair. Don’t over praise. Don’t condemn. Don’t try to be an editor.
• Read what you report. Is it clear? How would you react?
• Most of all, try to enjoy the process. You are quite likely to gain as much from it as the author.

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