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My reading list grows exponentially. Everytime I read a book, it'll mention three other books I feel I have to read. It's like a particularly relentless series of pop-up ads.
-A.J. Jacobs

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Critter Groups


I've seen a lot of posts about this recently. It's one of those hot topics that everyone has such a solid opinion on. It's one of those that is also hard to change a person's opinion on. Not that I'm going to try to do that, of course.

Most people's arguments as to why finding a good critique group is a waste of time is because it takes a lot of time and in most circumstances, it turns out to not be worth it.  I know everyone finds a thing that suits them well and to each man their own, but without my critique groups I would not be the writer that I am today.

I not only have several online critique buddies, some of the greatest friends in the world by the way, but then I also go to a local writer's workshop. Both of those avenues have worked for me as a writer and in an attempt to not go long winded on anyone today, I'm going to do 2 separate posts. One tomorrow about my critiquing experience through online avenues and then one on Thursday about my experience with DFW Writer's Workshop.

For today, tell me what types of experiences you've had with critiquing groups and if you feel that they've had an overall positive or negative experience on you. What made it work/not work?

4 brilliant remarks:

Tina Lynn said...

I think critique groups are extremely important. But I think it's important for people going in to understand that it's a lot like any other relationship. If you aren't feeling someone's voice or writing style, then you should part ways, still friends. But once you find the right people, it is a rewarding experience. Totally.

Jennifer Shirk said...

Well...I had to kiss a lot of frogs before I found my prince of a crit group. LOL
But I've been with with this group for about 5 years. we have a forum and the friendships I've made with them are so special to me.

Jemi Fraser said...

I totally lucked out with my crit buddies. We kind of stumbled into each other on a forum and clicked. They are AMAZING and I have no idea what I'd do without them.

DL Hammons said...

My critique group is invaluable! I've been in some before where the committment really wasn't there, and that can be a drag. Like Tina said, they are a relationship...which means they require effort and work to keep running smoothly. Once that is there...*sigh*. :)