Offering Pro Bono Proofreading/Copy editing (Closed for now.)

[minerrale]

I've been trying to help as well, sadly not for free but still for as cheap as possible, even though I'm not yet a pro ^^'
I know a few writers who would benefit from your offer and deserve it a lot more than I do, so I'll leave that possibility to them first!

[BlueWorldComics]

First of all, you're a saint...

Second of all, I may not be ready for this current run, but will this service you are providing be available in the future? How long after taking on a project will you be ready to take on a new one (best estimation)? I could try to have a story cranked out by then...

[Vada]

That is very kind of you! I adore learning that others do their best to help! This industry needs more people like you!

[minerrale]

This community has given me so much, it's only natural that I try to give back! I wish there were more ways to do that but I can see now that I'm not alone in trying. So on behalf of all of us, thank you!
I sent this thread to one of my favorite creators here on Tapas, really hope she'll catch your eye

[Vada]

Blue,

This service will be available indefinitely. I like to have two pro bono projects at all times. As for when I will be available to take on another after this one, it is hard to say. It depends on the length of novel, how quickly the pro bono client can revise as well as whether or not they just disappear. My rule is that, if I do not receive a response within two weeks of my last communication, I assume they have given up. At that point, I put out a notice for availability again. That said, typically, each project I take on generally runs about two to three months.

Additionally, you can apply at any time and I am happy to put approved applications on a waiting list. I've done this in the past. Sadly, many of those I've put on a wait list, disappear if they've had to wait a few months.

[Vada]

Best of luck to her! I look forward to seeing her application!

I also consider myself one of the fortunate ones. During my first few years in the industry, I happened to meet some incredible mentors that asked for nothing in return. Now, I'm just paying it forward. Sounds like you are doing the same. It's really nice to see!

[djwaglmuffin]

I just might contact you. I was talking to a friend about how much my work has changed between the novel and the comic but it might be a good idea to have it read well anyway...polish it up for a pitch.

Thanks for this.

[Vada]

Please do. I look forward to seeing your application.

[joannekwan]

Thank you for this great opportunity! I might consider applying when my manuscript is closer to completion. I think it's about 75% done right now, all the major events have been written, just got to fill in the gaps and such.

But since you're open to answering general questions as well:
How common is it to go through multiple editors? For example if one has an editor, but then the edited copy they and the author produce is not up to snuff for a publisher and the author has to work with a new editor?

[Vada]

Excellent question! This is actually quite common and for one of two reasons. The first and most common is that the author only had proofreading done whereas agents and publishers require copyediting to be done. Well, agents don't require copyediting but it tends to be a preference as it saves them an immense amount of work and time.The second reason being that many aspiring writers and comic artists cannot afford copyediting rates. Proofreading will generally cost between $15-$20 per hour. Copyediting, on the other hand, can cost upwards of about $35-$47 per hour. Thankfully, most agents and publishers do not require copyediting to be done prior to querying. Should the manuscript be accepted by a publisher, they will typically pay for the copyediting. For example, just how Tapas will have your work processed via their own editorial team should it be approved as a premium novel/comic. That said, your manuscript has greater chances of being received positively if it has been professionally copyedited.

[Tanako]

How do you feel about comics? because I have one I'd like you to review and give me a feed back. I don't like public feed backs so privacy is important to me. let me know if you take on comics and I'll reach out.

[Vada]

I do take on comics but I am offering proofreading and copyediting which is different from reviewing and critiquing. I'm afraid I no longer offer just reviews and critiques anymore. I found just critiquing did not offer enough support and guidance. So, if you're interested in having your comic proofread or copyedited, I'd be happy to receive your application!

[joannekwan]

Thanks for the answer! Really good to know!

I suppose it leads to my next question:
How does one find an agent to even try sending a query letter to them?

[Vada]

I couldn't help but chuckle. This is something I get asked all the time and there is really no quick and simple answer to this. That's why it's something I offer to help via the volunteering. It's something that depends on a plethora of variables and is different for every writer/comic creator. Both finding and querying an agent can be more time consuming and painful than writing and editing your manuscript. It requires countless hours of research as well as writing and revising your query letter to perfection. Just finding the right agents to query can be a lot of work. Never mind researching their client history, preferences, etc.

I believe you said your manuscript is approximately 75% complete, right? Why don't you go ahead and apply? That's close enough to completion for me to know you've spent a fair amount of time on it. I'd be happy to discuss more about agents and querying then.

[joannekwan]

Ah! If 75% is acceptable then I definitely think I shall apply!.
Thank you again, and for putting up with my questions~

[Vada]

You are most welcome. You asked some very important questions!

[WriterLinXiaolong]

Hello!

Do you work with any genre?

[Vada]

I do! Although I have preferences for my personal reading list, my volunteer work is open to all genres!

[WriterLinXiaolong]

Currently writing you an email, please wait for it

[Vada]

haha, ok! Please send via discord or email as I am turning off pc for the night.