The Complete Guide to Editing Your Fiction

Before pronouncing your novel a final draft, I suggest reading this invaluable book. In a simple but effective approach, Seidman covers every aspect of problem writing including setting scenes, dialogue, viewpoint shifts, grammar, backstory, characterization, imagery . . . the list goes on. The appendix contains a handy reference guide in bullet format--that alone is reason enough to buy the book. Highly recommended for new... Read Full Review

This book goes far beyond traditional editing guides. Writers will appreciate the informal approach used by Seidman, and the ease with which he gives advice on the entire aspect of writing.Seidman captured the concerns facing the majority of all writers in his book. His candid manner speaks of his own feelings and preferences on writing and editing. He combines both to create a professional guide and a personable read. Unlike... Read Full Review

I have known editor Seidman for about 10 years, and have read his books only recently. I am SO impressed by this work. He explains to us, the readers, _what_ an editor does with cogent examples of published and unpublished work.The value of clear editing is shown here with examples, and I would not have understood any other way. Michael Seidman, through his books, has taken away much of the secrecy of glamor of publishing... Read Full Review

Using examples from his own work (including the entire progress of an award-nominated short story, from inception to the finished version as it appeared in a magazine) as well as that of other writers, Seidman explains the revision process in terms of sculpting: taking away what isn't necessary so that what's left is the piece you want it to be. He concentrates on fiction, but the same principles apply to any writing... Read Full Review

It is almost as if Michael Seidman sits down and goes over your manuscript with you. As a long-time editor, his insights and examples are right on target. He stresses the whole work as well as addressing the elements from which it is constructed, he also points out how a change in any one of the elements changes the larger entity in ways subtle or crucial. In a culture which cherishes sound-bites, we often want quick... Read Full Review