I've decided that it could be a useful resource to have a list of writing editors and beta-readers for aspiring Fan Word writers.
There are a lot of times where I've read a really good submission that was interesting, had an excellent point, but ultimately have to reject it for publication for writing errors. These are my least-favourite ones to turn down, because I know that they could otherwise open up a lot of minds (or at least discussion). And while I do have the ability to edit Fan Word submissions before they head out, that's not something people can rely on; if I just see too many little mistakes, I'll pretty much reject it then and there. This is a completely fixable problem, though . . .
I want to compile a list of editors and beta-writers. Users who have the time/patience to look over the works of others, to catch mistakes in spelling, punctuation, and grammar; users who can give some feedback on the work before it gets put out; maybe users who can even mentor others to a degree.
This is of course a completely informal list, and is by no means any sort of "Official theOtaku.com Writer's Union" or anything silly like that. It's just an avenue for peers to help each other out if they'd like it - and I already know of at least one person who'd love to have such a list of people to ask for help.
Those of you considering volunteering for this editor/beta-reader list should:
- be comfortable with their writing ability in terms of spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
- have enough free time to be able to look over such works now and then.
- have no problem being approached by such writers in the first place.
- state any preferences/specialties for writing if any (eg. formal essay writing, fiction writing, etc.)
If people want them, I can also link to portfolios and such for people to look over as well.
As for myself - I'm open to looking over people's stuff if they'd like, though I can't promise I'll have a lot of time to do so outside of the Fan Words work I already do.
So, anyone game?
