Authored by Natalie Montpas, UNG Press Intern
Imagine you’ve submitted a manuscript to your local press. What’s the next step before it ends up on a bookshelf? One of the key checkpoints is the reader’s report. These reports guide editors, authors, and (in some cases) acquisitions committees through early-stage decisions—and knowing how they work gives you valuable insight into the publishing world.
What’s in a Reader’s Report?
At its core, a reader’s report is a structured evaluation of a manuscript for someone who hasn’t read it. They typically offer a summary, an analysis, and a clear “publish or pass” recommendation (Filament Publishing). A good report often includes:
- A concise manuscript breakdown (title, genre, word count, author)
- A plot or argument summary
- Analysis of strengths and weaknesses
- Audience/market fit
- A clear recommendation
Reader’s Reports by Genre
Reader’s reports vary depending on the type of manuscript under review:
- Fiction: Focus on plot, pacing, and character development
- Nonfiction/Academic: Emphasize research credibility, structure, and contribution to the field
- Textbooks: Look for clarity, versatility, and classroom value
This variation shows that while many presses share common standards, expectations are not identical across the industry. For example, a monograph may be judged heavily on academic rigor, while trade fiction might be assessed for market appeal.
Anatomy of a Strong Report
Most reader’s reports are no longer than a single, double-spaced page, typically consisting of 2–3 paragraphs. Getting straight to the point makes a big difference, but practices can vary slightly between publishers. University presses, for instance, want reports that are both academically solid and accessible to potential readers.
Key elements–as mentioned above–usually include:
- Summary: Captures the manuscript’s argument or narrative
- Analysis: Evaluates clarity, originality, and readability
- Recommendation: Advises whether to publish, revise, or decline
What Authors Can Learn
A “no” from a reader’s report doesn’t necessarily mean failure. Sometimes the recommendation is to revise and resubmit. Other times, the report clarifies that a manuscript may be better suited for a different publisher or audience. Either way, these reports are designed to be constructive—not personal.
Why These Reports Matter—Especially to Authors
Editor and consultant Claire Wingfield describes reader’s reports as a “most useful first stop” for new writers. They provide professional feedback on what’s working in a manuscript and what needs improvement. Wingfield’s own reports often include targeted annotations, pointing out where issues occur and suggesting strategies for revision. Clear, actionable notes like these help writers identify redundancy, slow pacing, or information overload—turning an early draft into a much stronger manuscript.
So . . . Why Should You Care?
For authors, reader’s reports provide feedback that can sharpen a manuscript before it reaches wider audiences. For students and publishing interns, learning to write them builds critical editorial judgment. And for presses, they are an essential tool for deciding whether a manuscript should move forward in the publishing process.
Have you ever received or written a reader’s report? Share your experience in the comments below—or send us your questions about this behind-the-scenes part of publishing. We’d love to hear your perspective!
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