Sensitivity Reading
Sensitivity reading, or authenticity reading can be defined as hiring a reader from a certain identity, lived experience, or cultural background to read your document or manuscript. This reader will flag any inadvertently offensive content, stereotypes, non-inclusive language, implicit bias, inaccuracy, and misrepresentation of equity-deserving communities.
Above all, it will improve the quality and authenticity of the work. It may also shield an author from unnecessary criticism.
Specifically, hiring this type of reader is recommended when a writer includes characters or writes about communities, of which they are not part. (To learn more about the type of inclusive language used in sensitivity reading, the Conscious Style Guide is a fantastic resource).
Undoubtedly, this type of reading is very similar to a beta reading, however, with a very specific focus.
Overall, as a sensitivity, or authenticity, reader I will provide a detailed report, as well as comments throughout the document, on how to improve the text for sensitivity or authenticity.
Rates
For both fiction and non-fiction, my rate is $100 CAD per 10,000 words (or approximately 40 pages – 250 words per page).
This includes
- an email discussion of your sensitivity reading needs and project specifics,
- one round of reading, and
- a follow up email discussion regarding any clarifications or questions.
At our agreed upon due date, I will provide you with
- either a Microsoft Word document with “Track Changes” and comments or a Google document with “Suggested” edits and comments,
- a one-page summary of my suggestions, and
- a list of recommended resources for further reading.
Topics
Specifically, each reader offers a variety of topics based on their personal lived experiences. I personally offer sensitivity reading on a variety of topics, including
- Disability,
- Disability and travel,
- Accessibility and systemic barriers,
- Intersections of disability and socio-economic class,
- Intersections of disability and queerness,
- Mobility aids,
- Disability-affirming language,
- Person-first and identity-first language,
- Chronic illness,
- Chronic Pain,
- Mental health,
- Neurodiversity,
- Violence,
- Grief, loss, and death,
- Immigration,
- Eastern European diaspora,
- Eastern European diaspora and queerness,
- General 2SLGBTQIA+ topics, and
- Queer-affirming language.
Please do not hesitate to contact me on similar topics, as I may be able to refer you to trusted colleagues in my network specializing in additional topics and identities.
Sliding scale rates are available for creators from equity-deserving communities. No specifics are required.
Sensitivity Reading Terms and Conditions
- All prices are quotes in CAD.
- Upon receipt of documents, a contract will be sent to the Client, which must be signed prior to commencing work.
- This contract will establish scope of work, expectations, and timelines.
- A 50% deposit must be sent via e-transfer or PayPal prior to the Editor commencing work.
- The remaining 50% will be due within 10 days of completed work and receipt of Editor invoice.
