Starfire asked Jennifer Lynn Alvarez:

I write books all the time, but I never have the courage to show anybody. Do you have any tips that could help me get over my nerves?

Jennifer Lynn Alvarez Hi there! That's a great question!! It took me a long time to get up the nerve to share too. Perhaps it would help if you gave your reader a list of questions to answer for you after they read your book. Like, Was any part confusing? Did you like the main character? Did any parts feel slow?

If you take control of the feedback you're looking for, it might feel less scary than handing someone your book and asking "So what did you think?" That's so vague and can be scary for your reader too. But if you write down specific questions and ask the reader to answer them in writing--then you have some control over the process, as well as a cushion regarding their response. You can read their views rather than sit and listen. Your reader will probably appreciate this process too!

Start with people you trust but also look for people who enjoy the type of fiction you're writing. It does get easier the more you do it! Best of luck with your writing!! Jennifer

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