Thanks!! I will keep everyone posted with progress on The Hobo Code.

For me, criticism is hardest in person as I'm not good enough of an actor. My feelings show all over my face.

Hopefully--though I've heard some horror stories that make my hair curl (more). Even if an editor has extensive feedback, it should always be positive, constructive, and respectful. But YES, I know firsthand that first knee-jerk "HOW DARE YOU" reaction. Even editors have trouble being edited sometimes. 🙂 Good luck with your YA!

I've learned to step away from the laptop after receiving feedback on my other work as I occasionally "get my Irish up" and remind myself that feedback is thoughtful suggestion most of the time.

I'm a big fan of "whatever works for you"! (And also of metaphor and simile, in any admixture.) I try to balance rationality with an intuitive approach--there's no one-size-fits-all for any creative pursuit. (But that said, I'm very, very happy you do control your instant-gratification impulses and edit/revise.) 🙂

I absolutely expect to get a manuscript from you with that football scene in it one of these days... 🙂

jonesing--I was using the modern usage of desire rather than the original slang reference toward addiction. But, it fit since the character had been a lifeguard. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jones

Littlemissw, I totally get this. These are the edits I worry over. I know it's right, but if my reader thinks I'm wrong, they may put down the book. I'd rather be read than right!

BUT - could you add a sentence or two of explanation that blends into the story, but informs the reader? Maybe in dialog, where another character says what the reader is thinking? 'That's not right. I always heard....'

Maybe?

#1 for me, Jenny. I want to type the last period and move on. It's not that I don't think I don't need editing (you of all people, know I do!) I just don't want to revisit the story - IT'S DONE!

Your way is the rational, studied, and no doubt, wisest approach. But the girls here know, I'm a rusher - premature submitter - you get the idea. I dive into edits the minute they show in my inbox. It's the painful, dive-into-the-ice-water method, but it works for me.

Wow, how many analogies can I fit into one comment?

But in my defense, I have a very short deadline, no matter how many pages the editorial letter is - usually 10 days.

I have found that I know in my gut, which edits are okay, but painful, and which are, 'no way Jose, you can't make me'.

Wonderful blog - thanks for that!

I completely agree. And obviously an editor doesn't point things out for nothing. They only want you to get your story to its best. And thank you, I'll need it.