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The Critique Group

6/14/2016

7 Comments

 
Picture
We sat around the table – six novice picture book writers with copies of our budding manuscripts. We were joined by the critique leader – a published picture book author. Intimidating? Yes! Heart-pounding scary? Yes! One person read a manuscript (not her own) aloud while the rest listened, then commented.
 
I passed my story to the reader, my hand trembling slightly. My heart started pounding. My mouth was suddenly completely dry, all that moisture rerouted to my palms. I listened to the words I had written and revised and written and revised – a sigh of relief at “The End,” then more anxiety as comments were shared.
 
Over the course of my workshop weekend I participated in three critique group sessions and a first pages sharing with an editor. My “baby” was cut…and cut…and cut, revised…and revised…and revised, emerging as a new being (who still needs some nurturing). It was the most humbling, but at the same time rewarding, experience I have had in a long time. I learned to let go.
 
Note: If you have the opportunity to attend a Highlights Foundation Workshop, I highly recommend it. I attended “Picture Books and All That Jazz” this past weekend at the barn. I learned so much about picture book writing (and I thought I already knew a lot!) I was stretched and nudged in many ways, and I know I have grown as a writer.
7 Comments
writekimwrite link
6/14/2016 08:10:42 am

Bravo for being brave! I think it is easier when you trust those around are there to help your "baby" grow to maturity!

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www.rushessaysbest.com link
6/27/2018 05:17:35 am

I know how it feels because I was a once a student who got that feeling too. I have also let go if different opportunities in my life because I used to be careless back then. I didn't realize, I was letting go of something I will never have forever. It's true that regrets occur afterwards. That's why if the choice is still within your hands, make sure that you're coming up with the best decision possible. It would always be bad to regret all things you did and what you did not!

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arjeha link
6/14/2016 08:13:37 am

Rose, congratulations on doing this. I can imagine how scary it must have been. Don't think I would have the courage to do it. So, when can we expect your published book? :-)

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elsie
6/14/2016 10:12:44 am

Isn't that how kids feel when they turn in work and wait for our comments? Kudos to you for putting your work out there and taking in the thinking of the critiques.

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Margaret Simon link
6/14/2016 11:54:58 am

It take some guts to go to a weekend of critique sessions. I have heard wonderful things about Highlights workshops. It's an expense I can't afford right now, but I'm putting it on my list. Let us know when your book comes out!

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Molly Hogan link
6/14/2016 05:48:53 pm

Congratulations to you for taking the risk and being open to the rewards! Your post reinforces how important it is to move outside of our comfort zones so that we can grow. Thank you.

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Darcy Pattison link
6/15/2016 07:13:26 pm

Rose:
You were one of the bravest people at the retreat!
You cut so ruthlessly that I never saw your fear, only your hopes.
Well done!
Darcy

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