Let's Edit! Ep. #3: YA Novel Opening Scene

[natesamadhi]

"we'd be here for 3 hours"
and i'd gladly watch every second.

[kilosofshade]

And this is why a good dev edit costs so much. That was so thorough and even though I've been writing a long time, I def had some great takeaways. Thanks to your Patreon supporter for volunteering their story.

[carrien.wagner]

Thanks everyone for the comments! I was eager for Ellen to edit my chapter, but I was nervous about the comments I’d receive from it, especially since I haven’t polished the chapter very much yet and have a lot to learn in writing and editing. But not only were most of the comments kind, but I also got so many helpful suggestions and perspectives. Really appreciate everyone’s empathy and advice! 💛

[jack]

I know the algorithm likes clickbaity "listicle" style videos, (e.g., "Top X tips to do Y!"), but this type of video is infinitely more useful to me as a writer. I am going to subscribe to your channel in the hopes that I'll see more "Let's Edit" episodes.

[thelvey]

I liked the line about good meals meaning they were moving. I felt like that was the most powerful emotional point in the story. And I especially like the idea of fresh herbs or garlic (and that smell) being equated to moving.

Thank you to the author who shared their WIP! That is brave, and I hope your revisions go well! Keep at it!

[Pystoria]

I think zooming out just a few seconds in-universe at the very start would improve things really well. Having Addy witness her brother being bullied, maybe hear him try to defend himself, and then Addy seeing the first punch get thrown herself could tell us a lot about everyone's situation - including the bully's, assuming she will be a major character.

[kadygraf]

I think this is great what you are doing here. I also think you should give this writer a chance after this to re-write it and let us see how she progresses through your teachings.

[BlazeQuadZ]

"Roadkill Oreo" is a unique way to start a novel. I wouldn't bog it down with description as to what that means in the first sentence. Perhaps the second could then clarify it by giving more details. For example, that the bully dropped it when she hit him.

Also, her brother being bloody should be a good enough motivation for her to attack the bullies.
Lastly, I believe opening with a punch is a lot more impactful than showing the bullying beforehand.

Not to say that any of these are negatives of your Editing Process. You pointed out that some things come to down to personal preference. And as an absolute beginner, these wouldn't be problems I would have had with it.

Kudos to you, it was insightful to see how a professional editor works.

[FredrikHaugen]

Writing myself, I do feel with the writer. Sometimes you don't see the forest for all the trees. You build the scene in your head, complete with feelings and what you want to communicate to the reader. Then you have to temper that shining, three dimensional diamond with sight, sounds and smells onto a piece of paper using nothing but words. This being the first scene in the first chapter you just want to go on. But this is your introduction for the reader into the world. This is whats makes editors so important.

[PechichonPelado]

Please never stop doing these live edits. Even though they are about someone else’s story, I find them so insightful for my own work in progress.

[libbyhyett]

Merry Christmas Ellen. Thanks for your work.

[JamesLintonwriter]

Tossing pasta in the sauce is hugely common in Italian cooking. Generally you cook the pasta until it's almost finished and then you finish it off in the sauce.

[watchmakersp]

Thank you very much Ellen ; a great help ; am starting my novel. Happy holidays !

[jeroenf]

I really appreciate this series, thanks you so much!

[rachelthompson]

Stakes: If protag had spent time in juvie, she would fear her brother winding up in such a place and she knows he isn't capable of surviving that without real damages

[imia]

This is so helpful! Your comments are thoughtful and insightful as always.

[RoseAnneLivao]

I really appreciate how you focus on the small details that can make it stand out! Thanks for inspiring us with your content, Ellen! 😊♥

[lydiau]

Yayy!! Missed this series, it’s so useful

[morgantraynor]

Another fantastic video! Thank you for your attention to detail and dedication, Ellen! ❤😊

[The-Secret-Dragon]

I really enjoy your editing videos. Some fantastic feedback here. I learnt a lot!