Book proposal feedback and a ‘Botox’ essay
Tables have turned in today's writing advice essay: I’m editing my own editor’s first paragraphs…
This writing advice essay is for you if you’re interested in book proposals or Botox or beauty or generally want to write topics for consideration in
.This week I chose to feature the opening paragraphs of
’s book proposal, as well as my own editor’s first paragraphs (hi ) on a piece about envy among the Botoxed and non-Botoxed. I think there’s a lot for us to enjoy about their first drafts and also some real substance to work with. I share their “before” version and then an “after” with my edits and an “editing take along” for everyone … So let’s dive in!Twice a month I choose a few writing samples from Ask an Editor and then provide a full developmental edit the following week in an essay.
These posts are paywalled and offer hands-on editing advice to help everyone’s writing—not just the folks whose samples I choose to share. I try to choose a wide variety of writing submissions so that all writers can think more creatively about their writing and also (hopefully!) challenge preconceived notions about where our writing can go next.
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Lauren’s original
In my non-fiction/memoir, The Tiger in the Lifeboat, I chronicle my own journey through trauma, spiritual deconstruction, and eventual reconstruction set against the backdrop of my time in India. A combination of immersive travel writing and honest critique of Western Christianity, this tender confessional is a resurrection story for readers of Tsh Oxenreider, Sarah Bessey, and Jen Hatmaker.
Amanda’s suggested edits
This is what happens when a white Christian-in-crisis goes to India on a work assignment: everything about God comes into view. In a warm, wrinkled smile
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