Collaborating with other writers is often encouraged: that’s where critique groups come from. Critique group members often write in several genres, so it’s not uncommon that people commenting on your work don’t write in your genre. The question is this: is receiving feedback or critiques from writers outside your genre a good idea?
The Usual Recommendation
There are many good reasons to receive feedback from people who write what you write. For example, they’re familiar with tropes for your genre, and understand the structure of writing within that genre. Further, they can spot repetition or unwise imitation of other authors. Feedback from such people is often immediately helpful and understandable. And let’s be honest, when reading in your primary genre, you understand what you’re reading and can evaluate it with ease: that’s why the feedback from reviewers within your genre can be so helpful.
Many people warn vehemently against getting feedback from outside your genre, as noted in this article from Anne R. Allen’s blog. A central point Allen emphasized is the need to ensure that readers from outside your genre understand the inner workings of the genre, common tropes, etc. That makes sense. But is it really so bad to receive critiques from readers outside your genre?
Yes, You Can
You can receive valuable feedback from people who don’t write what you write. Think about it: writers can help you with your point of view or voice whether they’re in your genre or not. And sometimes, having a reviewer from a different genre gives their comments a level of freshness that improves their review. You may find their feedback valuable in how you organize your scenes, and the flow of your dialogue as well. As you receive their feedback, ask yourself questions such as:
● Is this the best way to organize this scene?
● Given the demands of my genre, does this advice make my writing stronger, or weaker? or,
● How clear is my writing to a new reader to the genre?
I’m now speaking with another local author in my county—Liz Cooper—who primarily writes books for children, while I focus on mysteries and science fiction. Liz is an excellent writer, is skilled at analysis and is experienced at giving other writers feedback. And I strongly encourage everyone to read Liz’s books: I’ve read Bluebell Skinks Wheelchair Kid and Mitzi Mufflin Principal for a Day and they’re worth it! Liz and I hope to gain valuable feedback from each other and grow as writers through our collaboration.
Whether a reviewer is in your preferred genre or not doesn’t determine the value of their feedback, and getting thoughtful suggestions from writers your respect is worth the effort. You heard it first here!
