So how do you know if an editor is qualified to work on your manuscript? Start by making sure you are connecting to an editor who knows what your readers want and is comfortable working in that genre.

Family history can actually be a tricky thing to write and edit because it can easily straddle the line between narrative non-fiction and fiction. It’s important to work with an editor that understands both story arc and various narrative forms of writing while also knowing something about writing non-fiction for a general audience.

Getting feedback on your writing early not only helps you improve your craft it can also help you identify what is working and what needs improvement.