In-Person COACHING

Could you use some feedback on your work-in-progress, as well as a little push to keep moving along? Maybe you just need some advice on marketing your work or improving your agent pitch letter. If this sounds like you and you desire face-to-face interaction, try Fat Plum's in-person coaching sessions. You'll receive the individual feedback and encouragement you need to make progress.

What it is

A mini-workshop where all the interaction is focused on your work. You have the opportunity to talk things through and brainstorm options with one or two Fat Plum coaches. Our coaches provide support, guidance, critiques, suggested next steps and very often a much-needed deadline for you to meet! You might share a chapter, talk through your plot or work on your submission package. It's your call how you use this time for person-to-person attention on your work.

What it isn't

Coaching is not editing. Though your coach may make notes in the margins of your manuscript, most of the feedback will be verbal. If you're looking for editing, consider our Manuscript Editing and Manuscript Copyediting services.

What's the procedure?

Simply contact us via e-mail or phone (724-444-6466) and tell us a little about what you're working on and what your concerns are. If we think we can help we'll arrange a date, time and place to meet with either one or two available Fat Plum coaches. We offer the option of working with two coaches because often our clients find the group dynamic generates a beneficial synergy. The typical format for the sessions: you'll read aloud several pages and then we'll discuss them. (If you're too shy, we'll read it for you.) Hearing your manuscript read out loud highlights the rhythm of the language, as well as any grammatical glitches.

Who will coach me?

Your coach or coaches may be Judith Burnett Schneider, Cynthia Closkey or Julie Long, depending on your preference, our availability and who we think would be the best match for your writing genre.

How much does it cost?

Manuscript coaching is $90/hour for two coaches and $45/hour for one. You may schedule a session for one hour or more (although three hours is usually the maximum you'll want to meet in a single session). You can meet for a single session or multiple sessions.

How do I pay?

You pay as you go. Bring a check or cash on the day of the session. (Make check payable to your coach.)

What should I bring?

Bring copies of your work for you and your coach(es). Please make sure your pages are in standard format:

  • Double-spaced, single-sided, 8.5" x 11" sheets
  • Courier/Courier New font, 12-point size
  • 1.25" margins
  • Numbered pages

How can I learn more?

Call us at 724-444-6466 or contact us . We'll be happy to discuss your project, answer any questions and help you determine if manuscript coaching is the right service for you.