One of the unfortunate things about publishing becoming a bigger industry is that writers seldom gain the intense manuscript development services that they used to. Once upon a time (no, not so long ago!) a publishing house would establish a good relationship with a writer, would discuss the nitty-gritties with him or her about the manuscript, and would ensure that all the possibilities for development are laid on the table.
Usually, writers would appreciate this type of in-depth workshopping of their manuscript. However, it is no longer something that publishing houses routinely offer, and it is perhaps to their detriment. Many average writers can produce brilliant
manuscripts if they have the right people to work with.
‘It’s always been our philosophy to help develop existing talent in Australia,’ commented Brascoe Publishing partner Leticia Supple this week. ‘Writers need someone whose talents they can draw on to help them get their manuscript to the next critical stage.’
Manuscript development can take place at the beginning of the process, after the first draft, or perhaps once a writer feels that his or her work is nearly finished.
Traditional manuscript assessment services provide something similar, but they tend to assess the manuscript for its publishability. The service offered by Brascoe Publishing comes a step before that stage. Leticia mentioned that manuscript development is more about developing the work.
‘Often, a writer might feel that the work it’s produced isn’t quite there yet. He or she might want a hand getting over that hurdle, or might not know where to start. That is where a manuscript development service really helps out. It helps a writer to gain the
confidence to push the manuscript forward one more time—knowing that the feedback has come from a qualified and knowledgable editor.’
Brascoe Publishing prides itself on its writer development. In an arts industry where developmental services are getting left behind, the Brascoe is providing a breath of fresh air.
For more information about our writer and manuscript development, please visit the website at .
