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Book Quote by Jacqueline Woodson

“A lot of times, when people send me books to read - new writers mostly - I find that the book is still in a draft stage and that before it can leave the writer's hands and head to a publisher, it needs about five more revisions. Some people don't want to do that.” quote by Jacqueline Woodson
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“A lot of times, when people send me books to read - new writers mostly - I find that the book is still in a draft stage and that before it can leave the writer's hands and head to a publisher, it needs about five more revisions. Some people don't want to do that.”

Jacqueline Woodson

About This Quote

The quote highlights that many manuscripts, especially from new authors, remain unfinished and require multiple revisions before publication, and that some writers resist this iterative process.

In simple terms: Drafts need polishing before publishing.

Key Takeaway

Revision is essential for quality.

Themes

creative process authorial development editing perfectionism literary standards

Mood

reflective critical encouraging

Type

advice observation

When to use this quote

  • new writer seeking feedback
  • editor evaluating a draft
  • author reluctant to revise

Key Concepts

manuscript revision author resistance publishing pipeline

Practical Applications

  • guiding writers through revision
  • designing editorial support tools

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do some authors avoid revising?
  • How does revision affect a book's impact?
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