Sometimes I wonder if editing is ruining my ability to read for fun. There are some books I struggle to get through because I notice so many errors, or so many ways to just make it better. But then I read an awesome book (most recently, The Martian – SO GOOD) and realize – no, editing is NOT ruining my pleasure reading, I am just sometimes choosing books that aren’t particularly well done.
I have two thoughts/feelings about that.
- One: sadness! I read one book recently in particular that had a great storyline and some really relatable characters. I was invested – but it suffered from a lack of adequate copy editing and proofreading. I just can’t read the rest of the books in the series now, nor can I recommend the book to others. Sad – because there’s so much potential.
- Two: awe! The more I edit and beta read, the more I appreciate the effort that goes into writing a good book. The author needs to have ideas and a talent for storytelling, yes. But what sets the really good books apart, I think, probably comes down to the crazy amount of tedious effort it takes for authors and editors to work together and thoroughly edit — and then proofread — the text. ESPECIALLY for super long books.
Anyways, these are some of my random musings. I have a lot more, of course, but this is enough for today.
I’d love to hear what others think about this! Please, chime in via comments!
Kristin Houlihan, Writer 
I’ve asked myself the same question as a writer, Kristin. I find it difficult to read anything without analyzing the writing and relating it to my own. I learn a lot by reading. It’s a great way to work on and improve your own writing, but it can take away the pleasure of a good book sometimes.
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I feel the same way! As a writer, I feel like I judge books much more harshly than I used to. It’s just harder to enjoy them! All the more reason to seek out the really amazing books. (Like the Martian!)
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I have noticed things similar to what you describe. I am a very new blogger, and enjoy writing, and my main issue is that I cant read for pleasure in the genre I am currently writing in. Is that normal? I want my ideas to be fresh, and my writing to be my own. It has spoiled it when I have found a book or series that I want to read, but it’s in the area I wish to write in. lol, I have created a list, to go back and read those books!
On a more general note, I like your web site. Great job!
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Thanks for stopping by and the kind words! I generally try to stay away from determining whether something is “normal” – regardless of how it is for other people, that’s how it is for you! And that’s all you can work with 🙂 Good idea to keep a list! I have one for books I’d like to read but I know I have to be in a better frame of mind (no thrillers when I’m dealing with depression or anxiety, for example – they mess me up too much – but I can go back when I’m healthier).
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