Sensitivity reading is a crucial aspect of today's publishing industry, and it's gaining more attention and recognition every day. In a world where representation matters, sensitivity readers play an important role in making sure that books and other forms of literature are inclusive and culturally accurate.

Sensitivity reading is the process of having a reader review a work of fiction, non-fiction to check for potential issues related to representation, cultural sensitivity, and accuracy. This can include checking for instances of stereotypes, cultural appropriation, or any other type of insensitive representation. The goal of sensitivity reading is to make sure that works of literature are inclusive and respectful to all communities and cultures, regardless of race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.

One of the most important reasons for sensitivity reading is to promote diversity and inclusivity in literature. Literature should reflect the world we live in, and sensitivity reading helps represent different communities and cultures in a way that is respectful, accurate, and empowering. By having sensitivity readers review works, publishers can be sure that they are promoting diversity and inclusivity, important for both authors and readers alike.

You will need us to avoid causing harm or offense. While authors may have good intentions when writing about different communities and cultures, it’s important to ensure that representation is accurate and respectful, working to avoid potential issues by identifying areas that may cause harm or offense, and suggesting changes or improvements that can be made to ensure that the representation is accurate and culturally sensitive.

Sensitivity reading is also important for building trust with readers. When readers see that publishers have taken the time to check their work is culturally sensitive and inclusive, it builds trust and credibility with them. This can be especially important for marginalized communities who may have experienced negative or insensitive representation in the past. By having sensitivity readers on board, publishers can help to build trust and establish a reputation for being committed to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.

Glad you asked! Sensitivity readers review works of literature with a critical eye, looking for any instances of stereotype, cultural appropriation, insensitive representation or cultural accuracy, making sure that the representation of different communities and cultures is positive and respectful. Sensitivity readers may provide suggestions for improvements or changes to the work, or a list of resources for the author or publisher to use as they work to make the representation more accurate and culturally sensitive.

Note that sensitivity reading is not a one-time process. As our understanding of different communities and cultures evolves and changes, sensitivity reading must also evolve and change to keep up. We're knowledgeable and up-to-date on the latest cultural sensitivities and trends, and willing to continuously learn and grow in our work.

Sensitivity reading is important because it helps ensure that books, movies, television shows, and other forms of media accurately and respectfully represent diverse groups of people. It involves having individuals from underrepresented or marginalized communities review works of fiction and non-fiction to provide feedback on their experiences and perspectives. This feedback helps writers and creators identify and address any harmful stereotypes, insensitive language, or cultural inaccuracies that they may have included in their work, which can prevent them from perpetuating harmful or offensive messages. This is also an opportunity to promote empathy, understanding, and respect for different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles. We care for media representation, works responsible and respectful, that accurately reflect the experiences and perspectives of diverse groups of people.

Sensitivity reading has become a common practice in the publishing industry, as it helps to ensure that a book accurately and respectfully represents diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Check out the testimonials on my Services page to see what some of my clients have said about the experience!

We are not in the censorship business, and Cancel culture is not real. We read books because we love them, and even more If they include diversity and compelling characters. Not only that, but we approach the situation with empathy and a desire to provide constructive feedback. Our primary goal is to ensure that the representation in the text is respectful and sensitive to the experiences of marginalized communities.

We would provide specific examples of where the character or story line may be problematic (and extend ourselves explaining why) and offer suggestions for improvement. We'll also provide cultural or historical context to help you understand why the representation may be harmful.

We'll always maintain an open and respectful dialogue with you, the author, as the ultimate goal is to improve the representation in the text and make it more inclusive. You have the final say in whether to implement the suggestions made by the sensitivity reader, but professional feedback can be incredibly valuable in helping you to create the best work you can deliver.

What is a sensitivity reading? A sensitivity read is a type of review performed by a professional who is an expert in the areas of representation, cultural awareness, and sensitivity. We'll examine a manuscript for any potential harm or offense that might result from the representation of people, cultures, identities, or experiences that are different from those of the author. This is a really sought-after service, not only by authors but editors and publishing houses. It exists to review unconscious bias, representation issues and general lack of diversity of the literary world. We are showing up for the social-justice and the publishing landscape in general, to reflect what the writing communities care about is represented accurately.

What are the benefits of having a sensitivity read done on your work? This can help you avoid harmful or offensive content and ensure that your work is inclusive and respectful of all people, specially marginalized groups. This can also help you avoid negative publicity, legal issues, and damage to your reputation If your lived experiences are outside those of your characters.

What is the process of a sensitivity read like? A sensitivity read typically begins with the author sending the manuscript to the reader. The reader then examines the manuscript and provides feedback on any problematic or insensitive content, as well as suggestions for how to improve representation and inclusiveness. The author then has the opportunity to revise the manuscript based on the feedback received.

What are the qualifications of a sensitivity reader? We have expertise in the areas of representation, cultural awareness, and sensitivity, as well as a deep understanding of the experiences of marginalized communities. We are editors ourselves, so strong writing and editing skills are a must. Sensitivity readers have become secret weapons to writing diversely to increase literary quality. We're usually freelancers all around the world.

How much does a sensitivity read cost? The cost can vary widely depending on factors such as the length of the manuscript, the complexity of the subject, and how tight the schedule is. On average, a sensitivity read can cost anywhere from $200 to +$1,000.

How long does a sensitivity read take? The length of a sensitivity read can also vary depending on factors such as the length of the manuscript, the complexity of the subject, and previous workload. On average, a sensitivity read can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete. Take this into account.