Expert: Misti Sandefur - 11/25/2006

Question
Hello Misti:

Can you tell me if it is necessary to submit my final draft of my book that has been edited and ready for the publisher, to be reviewed in black and white or does it have to be in color? Is the reviewer looking at it for correct content or how the pictures look?
Thank you.

Answer
Yvonne,

Hello, thanks for your question. I do apologize for the delay. I haven't been online due to the holidays and weekend; I spent that time with my children. However, now that I'm back on I will get to your questions...

I don't think it matters if the book is black and white or color, but I would check with the reviewer first to see what his or her preference is. When I send a book out for review, I usually send the same book that the readers will be buying.

Yes, I believe reviewers look for correct content and picture quality. When I submit a book to a reviewer, I do make sure it is free of typos, spelling mistakes and grammar mistakes. If the book is filled with grammar and spelling mistakes, reviewers will catch them, and in some cases they may mention the mistakes in their review. Although, it looks as if you have this covered, because you said your final draft has been edited.

I know when I review a book I look at everything, and I ask myself: Did this book hook me from the beginning? Are the pictures interesting and clear? And, Do grammar and spelling mistakes distract me from the story (they usually don't if it isn't filled with them)?  

I hope this helps, and I hope it's the answer you were seeking. If it does not help, feel free to send a follow-up question.

Best wishes,
Misti Sandefur, freelance writer/editor

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