When a writer seeks feedback on their work, they’re usually hoping for constructive criticism that can help them improve their story. But how they interpret that feedback can make all the difference. Writing is personal, and when someone doesn’t like a book you spent months or even years working on, it can feel like they don’t really care about you. It’s important for writers to understand that while they may not always agree with a reader’s opinion, it’s not a reflection of them as a person or their character.
When giving feedback, start with what the manuscript does well. Praise the plot, character, dialogue and description to show that you value their effort and hard work.
Then move on to what needs improving. Be careful not to criticize the writing itself, and avoid words like “complaining,” “griping,” “fault-finding,” and “nit-picking.” Instead, focus on specific areas where the story could be improved. For example, if your characters are flat and undeveloped, consider whether they’re engaging enough to keep readers reading.
It’s also helpful to weigh the source of a comment carefully when considering how much weight to give it. Often, different readers will spot the same problem but offer differing solutions. For instance, if one reader suggests cutting a character while another suggests adding more to their backstory, this is a good sign that the core issue lies with your genre and audience rather than your characters. Channeling negative emotions into your writing is a powerful motivator, so use the bad reviews as inspiration to push yourself to create something better.