Manuscript Review

"There are as many manuscript reviewers out there today as there are ways to review a manuscript. Since this can confuse writers, I'll try to define my approach clearly. 

"I work best with established writers who are aware of the demands of the craft and don't need help getting started. Though I may highlight 'pickies' as I read, I am neither a line editor nor a 'grammar queen'. I'm reading in order to determine what the work wants to be. When I discover that intention, then I advocate for it. I believe that the ability to read astutely depends upon being sensitive to the goals of the author, knowledgeable enough to perceive alternative ways to craft the work if this is necessary, and honest and kind enough to suggest these alternatives clearly, tactfully and directly. Accomplished writers ask me to read their work because they know that I have 'an eye', they know that I want to help their work rather than own it, and they know that I will tell the truth. They also know that I will not waste their time."

Claire Robson reviews fiction, non-fiction and creative non-fiction. She works with manuscripts of any length, including memoirs, novels and short stories. Authors are encouraged to include specific questions or concerns, relevant contextual information and an outline of their goals when they send the manuscript. Text will be returned with detailed marginalia and a full report (usually two or three pages). In addition, authors are encouraged to call Claire so that they can discuss the report in detail. Manuscripts will be turned around in less than 30 days, and usually sooner. Claire Robson reserves the right to return manuscripts if she feels unable to offer constructive advice.

If you have further questions, or you wish to enquire about review of your work, send a description of the project and a two page writing sample to Claire.

Claire Robson has been a manuscript reviewer for the New Hampshire Writers' project for the last five years. Director Martha Carlson Bradley calls her "a model for what an instructor should be when critiquing: specific, thorough, and encouraging."

Be sure to check out Knickersnap, Claire's copy-writing and editorial services website.