Revision Techniques from Cheryl Klein

I had the great pleasure of attending a class on revision techniques given by the esteemed Senior Editor, Cheryl Klein from Arthur A. Levine Books (an imprint of Scholastic). Cheryl’s book Second Sight was released earlier this month and it includes her complete list for revision. Her book also includes additional tips and editorial insight.  

Her lesson was divided into three sections, each examining a different aspect of the revision process: vision, examination, and action. I’ve included some the techniques she discussed.

Vision

·         Take time off from the project.

·         Write the spine of the story in one sentence (overall action that is accomplished in the book)

·         Write the flap copy – or rather, a 250-word summary that gives away the ending.

·         Make a collage for the book - images that are key to the story.

·         Make a playlist for individual chapters, characters, or the book as a whole.

Examination

·         Change the font, then print out and read the entire manuscript on the page before making any revisions.

·         As you read, take notes on both the good stuff and the bad.

·         List the first ten things each significant character says or does (include internal thought for your POV character)

·         Run the plot checklist at www.cherylklein.com/plotchecklist.html

·         Book map the action of the book chapter by chapter/scene by scene. Visit Anita Nolan's site.(www.anitanolan.com/theend.html)

·         Mini-map: for each chapter provide a one-sentence summary of the action and then identify the climax-point of each individual scene. Look for redundancies and lack of action or advancement in these climaxes.

Action

·         Set a deadline for completing each stage of revision, and a reward for each one.

·         Cut as many adverbs, telling uses of the word “feel” or “felt,” non-“said” dialogue tags, and unhelpful “babies” as you possibly can.

·         Check the first line of the book for its hook, and the last lines of every scene and chapter for the intended emotional resonance.

·         Read the book aloud, or better yet, have it read to you.

I believe Cheryl is still in the process of tweeting these revision techniques, so keep your eye out for them. Also, I recommend you purchase her book, because not only will you find the complete list, but you will find a treasure trove of other invaluable information.

Tips from the Editors

Hey everyone! My role on our super-awesome new blog is to share the tips and information I gather by attending classes given by kidlit industry insiders such as agents and editors. A perk, aside from all the obvious perks, of living a train ride away from NYC – the publishing capital ­­­­– is the availability for live, in-person, writing education.  I hope you find the information useful!

Most people who write a manuscript dream of one day seeing it in print, but before that can happen an agent or editor needs to read it and agree to take the work on. As we all know the competition is fierce and the slush pile is plentiful. So how can we optimize our chances of getting past the first reader?

 Associate Editor, Katherine Jacobs from Roaring Book Press, and Grace Elizabeth Kendall, Editorial Assistant from Blue Sky Press presented at a local SCBWI class, late last year, and offered their personal editorial insights into what makes a manuscript stand out amongst the rest. (Remember that these are the opinions of these two editors in particular and do not represent editors as a whole).                                

In reference to 1^st lines:

·         read first lines from well known books, and see how yours compares

·         is the voice daring, welcoming, etc.?

·         know your character’s voice

In reference to 1^st chapter:

·         who are your characters?

·         introduce plot elements

·         everything in book is introduced here

·         what is at stake in the manuscript?

Don’t:

·         begin with dialogue

·         use sensory details like: “the alarm went off…” to begin a manuscript

·         use passive verbs

·         begin with the word “It”

·         overuse body language: “heart raced,” “hard left,” etc.

·         use flashback in first chapter

·         use contrive devices, such as journals, and writing assignments

·         be repetitious with words, emotions, or sentence structures

Do:

·         vary your language (in reference to repetition)

·         hook in first line

·         know your character

When writing a query or cover letter there are things the editors remind us of, as well.  Do your homework. Make sure to include titles that are similar to your manuscript, perhaps even something that the editor you are querying has worked on. Do not include Twilight or Harry Potter as books comparable to your own.

You can research editors using Literary Marketplace. Reading the acknowledgment page at the end of a book can be useful. Find out what the editor loves, thoughtfulness goes a long way.

Once you’ve picked an agent or editor to query be sure to address the letter to them specifically and have the correct spelling. Follow the submission guidelines as instructed on the editor's website.

·         what is your selling line?

·         talk about your manuscript succinctly

·         include target audience (PB, MG, YA, etc.)

·         don’t over-pitch your story

            Also include any relevant information about yourself, in relationship to your story. If you wrote a story about a beauty pageant contestant and you were Miss Teen USA include that, but don’t include it if your manuscript is about an archeology dig in Egypt.

            Did you earn an MFA, attend conferences or workshops? Are you a member of SCBWI? Include it. Do not let your query or cover letter exceed 1 page.

           

We’ve all seen some of these do’s and don’ts appear in some of your favorite (or not so favorite) books. So take what you will from this list and remember that good writing, and a good story trump most rules. (That’s my opinion, not there’s).

Don’t forget about Flash Fiction Friday starting this week. Our 1st topic: In 300 words or less, tell us a story beginning with, "That darn cat..." Post your entry on your blog on Friday, include a link in the comments section and everyone will take a look.