Writing mentors. Ever heard of one?
I find that writing is a largely solitary process. It’s me, my keyboard, a mug of ginger tea. But getting the encouragement to continue to write is a whole other story! That comes from my family and close friends, and a continual renewal of my intention behind why I write.
Because I live in Sydney, it helps to narrow down my mentor search to what’s close by. The NSW writing centre talks about their mentorship program here.
This is my first thought: OMG SO EXPENSIVE.
Second thought: So this is how writers can earn money.
Third thought: Well, it’s a service, and if it means making my manuscript the best it can be, then sure thing! That’s a wise investment.
Well, at this point in time, not only can I not afford a mentorship assessment, I also don’t really need one. I’ve already got a publisher waiting for me to finish up my second manuscript.
However! For future manuscripts which I intend to pitch at other literary agents and publishers, I would definitely consider a manuscript assessment. You know that glazed-eyed feeling when you’ve looked at your own writing for too long? A sure-fire way to fix that is by paying a team of experts to look over it for you, and give you constructive feedback. As usual, what I need to keep doing is write!
Here are a few very handy articles I’ve found on writing mentors:
How to Find A Mentor in 10 Not-So-Easy Steps
Writing mentors: What they do and where to find one
On another note, here’s a lovely review from Subhi Bora:
Raidah, I read Finding Jamilah. I loved it. It is so beautifully written mashallah! and I must say, I may have shed a few tears toward the end. 🙂
Raidah Shah Idil 
I think you are on to a good idea! You might also check out Richard Bentley’s free offer. He is a poet, and I like some of his poems. I’ve just recently discovered some of his work. He’ll give a critique on five pages or less of writing. You can check it out here: http://www.dickbentley.com/freeoffer.html#.UNWeb7QtjzM
I plan on sending him some of my writing soon.