Write Things: On Being Read

Watching a Story Be Read

In the video below, you’ll see what this kind of orientation looks like in practice.

Click here to watch the replay.

The walkthrough is led by Rachel Small, a professional editor with over 17 years of experience working with writers at all stages. Rachel has been part of the Write Things Community for some time now, where she’s worked closely with writers in small, conversation-based settings focused on development rather than correction.

In this video, Rachel walks through two short pieces and speaks out loud as she reads — noticing what’s landing, where questions arise, and how the story is orienting her as a reader. There’s no grading, no fixing, and no prescription. Just careful attention.

If you’d like to read along, I’ve also included one of the pieces being discussed as a downloadable PDF. Download now.

As you watch, you might listen for:

• what Rachel notices first

• where she slows down

• the kinds of questions she asks

• what she doesn’t rush to solve

This is the same developmental reading style Rachel brings to The Editor’s Table, a small, conversation-based group she’s run previously for members of the Write Things Community and is now opening to the public.

 At The Editor’s Table, a small group of writers gathers with Rachel to submit work in advance, listen to how their pieces — and others’ — are being read, and leave with a clearer sense of how their writing is landing and what choices are available next.

It’s not a course, and it’s not a deep editorial review. It’s a chance to sit at the table and experience how an editor listens.

You can find the details for the upcoming Editor’s Table sessions by clicking here.

As always, there’s no pressure to join. If this kind of reading feels supportive to where you are right now, you’re very welcome to take a look.

Wishing you and your stories all the best, 

Trevor Martens
Founder, I Help You Write Things

P.S. Feedback isn’t something writers owe themselves. It’s something they use when they’re ready to listen. If this isn’t your season for that, keep writing — the pages still matter.