To create dynamic worlds, we need to represent more than just ourselves within it. But to do that means stretching outside of what we know and being mindful of our limitations in doing so. Thankfully, there are specialized readers out there who focus on helping writers to portray lived experiences that are different from our own: authenticity readers (also known as sensitivity readers).
What do authenticity readers do?
Authenticity readers help you to come at your story with a greater sense of intention: the intention to write characters, cultures, and themes that feel authentic (aka avoid cliches and stereotypical assumptions) and do not cause harm or pain to your readers.
But . . . but . . . censorship!
Contrary to the beliefs of some who are critical of authenticity reading, the point isn’t to keep anyone from writing characters who intentionally exhibit prejudice or other problematic behaviors/traits. The point is to do so accurately and with clear purpose.
Authenticity reading can be challenging
This level of feedback can be difficult as it requires us to confront our personal ignorance, unconscious biases, etc. It may feel uncomfortable or generate anxiety. And that’s OK. Sometimes we have to sit in our discomfort to learn and improve.
If you do feel anxious or uncertain about hiring an authenticity reader, it’s important to remember that just like any other level of feedback or editing, an authenticity reader should not be judging your work—or you. Instead, they should provide feedback that is intended to improve your story, its world, and maybe (if you learn something from their feedback) help you to better identify where you may have personal gaps in understanding.
What might an authenticity reader help you address?
An authenticity reader can help with characters or themes surrounding:
- Different racial or cultural backgrounds
- Gender or sexual identities other than your own
- Mental health disorders you haven’t experienced
- A disability or health issue you don’t have
- Traumas or experiences you haven’t experienced yourself
Finding authenticity readers
The world is full of different lived experiences, and you’ll find authenticity readers for just about everything you’re looking for. Here are a few readers and lists of readers I keep handy for clients who may need this level of feedback.
From within my network:
- Crystal Shelly (Rabbit with a Red Pen): Asian American experience; Chinese culture; women’s issues; online gaming (MMORPG) culture; ageism against older adults; working with those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias; hospice/end-of-life care.
- Molly Rookwood (Rookwood Editing): Jewish characters, tropes, and topics.
- Rhonda Kronyk: Indigenous content; mental health; ADHD.
Other lists
- Writing Diversely has a great list of over 20 sensitivity readers with their areas of expertise clearly noted.
- Firefly Creative Writing has also put together a list of readers.
- Salt & Sage’s list of experts cover a wide range of experiences, topics, and cultures.