Non-binary authenticity reader for your book
What does an authenticity reader do?
Writing characters outside of your experiences, especially when you’re cisgender or don’t know many non-binary people, can be more of a struggle than you expect. Even trans writers struggle to write trans experiences that don’t align with their own.
You might fear getting something wrong, or accidentally offending your readers.
Authenticity readers are a type of beta reader who give you tailored feedback from the perspective of that experience. When you work with an authenticity reader, you can feel more confident in your depiction of characters.
Getting comprehensive feedback can reassure you and point out areas to improve. Sometimes you might be corrected, but other times you’ll be given ideas for how to strengthen the characterization of your character(s).
My experiences as a non-binary person
I knew from an early age that I didn’t want to be my assigned gender, but it wasn’t until my late teens that I came across the word ‘non-binary’. For half a decade before this, I thought I must be trans, but information about trans people wasn’t common.
While androgyny isn’t what every non-binary person craves, it is part of my gender expression. I have gender dysphoria and looking androgynous gives me gender euphoria. I use they/them pronouns exclusively and have changed my name twice, after trying out my new name for over a year.
When I authenticity read for non-binary characters, I create a reading report which compiles my questions and where representation has been strong and where it could be strengthened. I aim to provide comprehensive feedback while putting myself in the place of the character to understand how they experience the story.
As a non-binary authenticity reader, I think about my own experiences as well as that of others.
How I work with you as an authenticity reader
Like beta reading, authenticity reading typically works on a book pre-formatting but after editing has taken place. I prefer to work on Microsoft Word or Google Docs files, so I can leave comments throughout the story.
As an authenticity reader, I leave comments with constructive feedback and positive praise, and also add questions where needed. If possible, I’ll send resources to help, or else explain how something could be improved.
I also provide an authenticity reading report which summarises my feedback and queries. None of my comments are made as direct changes to your manuscript, leaving you in charge of applying the changes you agree with.
I’m happy to work with authors on rewording as needed. You can contact me after the initial report with any questions you have.
My authenticity reading services cost £0.002 per word, or are currently FREE for stories under 40,000 words while I build up my testimonials.
Resources for writing non-binary characters
I also write resources for writers to help you feel confident writing non-binary characters.
◦ Workbook: How to write with unfamiliar pronouns
◦ Gender-neutral names list for writers: A, B, C…
Let’s get started
Interested in my authenticity reading services? Great!
Fill out the form below and I’ll be in contact via email soon.