Working with Beta Readers and Sensitivity Readers
How to Get the Feedback Your Book Needs
March 5, and 12, 2026
1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Eastern (10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Pacific)
Every writer reaches a point where outside eyes can make all the difference.
The right beta readers and sensitivity readers can help you see blind spots, strengthen your storytelling, and ensure that your work is both powerful and responsible. But knowing who to ask, what to ask, and how to use feedback wisely can feel confusing—especially if you’ve never worked with readers before.
In this two-session workshop, you’ll learn how to approach the process with clarity, confidence, and respect for your own creative vision.
What You'll Learn
In these interactive sessions, we'll explore:
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What beta readers look for—and how their role differs from sensitivity readers
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When you need readers… and when you don’t
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Common problems authors encounter when manuscripts go out too early—or too late
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How to decide what kind of feedback you want
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The most helpful questions to ask your readers
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What readers should not be asked to do (and why)
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Who qualifies as a sensitivity reader
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Where and how to find thoughtful, reliable readers
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How much time to allow for feedback
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Compensation, gratitude, and acknowledgments
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When NDAs may be appropriate
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What to do when feedback conflicts
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What to do when feedback is consistent—but you disagree
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How thinking like a reader while you write can strengthen your manuscript from the beginning
We'll also talk about how to be an effective beta or sensitivity reader, and how this skill can open opportunities within the writing community.
In our second session, you’ll have the opportunity to:
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Bring a draft list of questions you’d like to ask your readers
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Refine those questions with guidance and discussion
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Learn how applying those same questions to your own work can help you revise before sharing your manuscript
Many writers discover that this step alone leads to deeper insight and stronger storytelling.
Who This Class Is For
This workshop is ideal for:
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Writers preparing to share a manuscript or book proposal
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Writers who have received feedback but aren’t sure how to use it
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Writers who want to build a thoughtful, supportive feedback process
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Writers interested in serving as beta or sensitivity readers themselves
Whether you’re early in a project or approaching revision, understanding this stage of the writing journey can save time, prevent frustration, and strengthen your work.
What You'll Walk Away With
By the end of this workshop, you'll have:
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A clear plan for working with beta and sensitivity readers
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A customized list of questions to guide your feedback process
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Greater confidence in evaluating and using reader input
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Tools to strengthen your manuscript before it ever leaves your hands
Faculty
Julie Cantrell, Story Summit's managing director, is a New York Times bestselling author and editor. A gifted teacher, she’s known for her generous, insightful guidance. She brings both editorial expertise and deep respect for the creative process, helping writers grow while staying true to their voice.
Today's Price Only $97 for 3 hours of instruction
Story Summit Membership subscribers receive this class at no additional cost. Just register and the discount will be applied automatically. Please make sure you're logged in to receive the discount. Not a subscriber yet? Join here.
Please note: Our classes are designed specifically for live participation, so your attendance is important. If you need to miss a class for any reason, you’ll receive a passcode-protected link to watch the recordings after the course is over.
