Hey there fellow writers, editors and artists! I'm a freelance writer and editor with more than ten years worth of experience. On top of my paid services, I take on two pro bono clients at a time. It's my way of giving back to the community and helping aspiring creators. That said, I've recently finished with one of my pro bono projects and am looking to take on another one. As the other project I am volunteering for is a collab comic, I'd prefer to take on a novel/novella. I provide proofreading or copyediting depending on your preference. I will also happily answer any questions you have regarding querying publishers/agents, benefits of self-publishing versus traditional publishing, digital marketing avenues, etc. Basically, on top of the proofreading/copyediting, I will mentor you on matters related to the literary realm. If you are interested, please carefully read my expectations as well as how to apply. Yes, there is an application process. I've taken on pro bono clients in the past that just dropped off the face of the earth. So, I have an application process now.
***Update: After posting this thread, I was messaged quite a bit with the same questions. I will answer them here. Yes, any and every genre is accepted provided their content does not promote any offensive or illegal content. Pieces that normalize racism, sexism or prejudice will be overlooked. That said, adult themes and mature content are fine. No, I will not write your novel for you. I am only offering pro bono proofreading and copy editing. Should you desire a ghost service, you will be charged for it. Additionally, there have been those that have requested career mentorship without the pro bono proofreading or copy editing. My apologies but they go hand in hand. If you are unwilling to improve upon your craft, I cannot -with good conscience- mentor you on querying agents and publishers.
Expectations:
- The manuscript draft is completed or near completion. I ask this because if it isn't, its just a waste of everyone's time.
- You are aspiring or amatuer. The point to my volunteering my services is to help those that have not had enough help yet.
You are dedicated! I want to help people succeed and get somewhere with their hard work. So, if you are not dedicated, I'm afraid you will not be a good fit for this.
You have goals.
You are open to the proofreading and copyediting process. As a writer myself, I understand how frightening and frustrating it can be to have your work edited. Yet, if you're not able to overcome that, you're likely not going to go far. Editing is an intrinsic part of succeding whether via self-publishing or querying for agents/publishers. Agents and publishers, as cold as it sounds, are more likely to just trash your query without reading if the can tell it hasn't at least gone through professional proofreading.
Application Process:
When sending your application via Discord or email, please tag it with "Pro Bono Application".
Please include a query letter. Don't worry about it being perfect. Make sure to include the synopsis of your piece, estimated word count, a brief bio and the reasons why you feel you could benefit from this opportunity. Explain your goals for the piece. Treat this as a professional request for proofreading/copyediting as that is what will be provided should your application be successful.
You can send your queries directly to me here on the forums but I am more likely to see them sooner if sent to my work email or discord. Both of which will be listed below. Best of luck to everyone. I look forward to working with you to help you succeed!
Best Regards,
Lady B
bedabunstudio@gmail.com
discord: Vada#7375