What is an “authenticity reader” and how do you know if you need one? Do they provide a function outside of editing? What makes an authenticity or sensitivity reader different from a beta reader?
Diverse writing
As writers, we often have casts of characters that are vastly different from ourselves. It is important to write about a diverse population otherwise our characters just become reflections of our own experiences, identity, culture, sexuality and many other factors that could limit our writing.
However, as recent events have shown and readers are demanding more diversity in stories, how do writers deal with writing from points of view that are so vastly different from their own experience?
The writer’s responsibilities
Firstly, the writer must do their research. Proper research, including talking to people from the community you are writing about, should be the first action. This will give the writer a clear understanding of the points of view and understanding of that community or the backgrounds of characters.
Research happens while you are writing. But what happens once you’ve written your novel and you’re not sure if what you’ve written may cause offence?
This is where authenticity readers may be helpful.
An authenticity reader, someone who has lived experience, is able to tell you about any offence you may have, inadvertently, caused.
Some stories demand a racist, homophobic, transphobic or similar, character. It might be historically accurate to portray the character as holding those views. What is crucial is that it is made clear it is the character who holds those views and not the author. Carefully crafted words will make this clear to your readers and, surely, that’s what your editor is for?
Not censors, supporters
Authenticity or sensitivity readers are sometimes portrayed as censors, limiting what authors can say.
While an editor should be noticing language that may cause offence or could land you, as a writer, in hot water, it’s not their only job. Aside from focusing on other things, they may not have the lived experience of the characters you writing about.
The job of an authenticity reader is not to edit or to change, but to guide you and support you to write authentic characters. Isn’t that what every writer wants? Characters who represent real experiences.
Should you hire an authenticity reader?
Consider, what is it in your writing that you think might cause offence? Have you got gaps in your research and lived experiences that might mean you cannot accurately portray the characters?
Then you probably want to find an appropriate authenticity reader.
How do you find a supportive authenticity reader?
Much like a beta reader, you may know people already who could make great authenticity readers. No qualifications are needed, just lived experiences.
Writing groups, social media networks and readers groups might all be places to start sourcing an authenticity reader.
Final thoughts
Finally, remember, whether you choose to use a sensitivity reader or not, your stories should be containing a diverse cast of characters. Have the confidence to write well researched stories from perspectives other than your own, have the confidence in your editor and write characters that teach readers.
Want to know more about my authenticity reading? Read this page about my services or this blog post from author and editor Debbie Emmitt.
Nick (he/him) is an experienced professional editor and proofreader, specialising in LGBTQ+ writing.
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