6h: How to Peer Review Fiction and Non-Fiction Christian Literature Manuscripts

This involves assessing the content, theological accuracy, writing style, and overall impact of the work.

The reviewer’s responsibilities encompass two main aspects:

In-text Commentary: The reviewer will provide in-text comments while thoroughly examining the manuscript. These comments will serve to offer real-time feedback on specific sections, concepts, or aspects encountered during the reading process.

Comprehensive Review Report: Following the thorough evaluation, the reviewer will furnish a detailed review report reflecting their overall impressions of the manuscript’s quality. This report will be structured to encompass several key components:

Strengths Assessment: An analysis highlighting the notable strengths exhibited within the manuscript. This segment will highlight exemplary features such as clear arguments, easy-to-understand explanations, originality of thought, or compelling narrative structure.

Weaknesses Identification: A close look at where the manuscript could get better. Point out things like when the arguments aren’t clear, when the story doesn’t flow smoothly, if there are mistakes in the facts, or if things don’t make sense.

By adhering to these structured guidelines, the reviewer endeavours to provide a comprehensive evaluation that highlights both commendable aspects and areas warranting refinement, thus facilitating the enhancement of the manuscript’s overall quality and efficacy.

Here are some tips for effectively peer reviewing such a manuscript:

Theology / Doctrine / Spiritual Alignment

Understand the Christian Perspective: Familiarise yourself with Christian theology, beliefs, and terminology. This understanding will help you assess the theological accuracy and coherence of the manuscript.

Evaluate Theological Soundness: Assess the theological soundness of the manuscript by examining its alignment with Christian doctrine and Scripture. Look for adherence to orthodox Christian beliefs and consistency with Biblical teachings.

Examine Scriptural Interpretation: Analyze how the author uses Scripture. Are verses quoted in context? Is the interpretation of the Scripture sound and applicable to the topic?

Examine Scriptural Interpretation: Analyse how the author interprets and applies Scripture within the manuscript. Assess the accuracy and consistency of Biblical references and whether they support the author’s arguments and conclusions. Also, verify the accuracy of Scripture citations and their application to the subject matter. Misquoting or taking verses out of context should be noted.

Christ-Centered: Evaluate whether the book glorifies Christ and reflects a Biblical worldview. Consider the author’s portrayal of Jesus, salvation, and the Christian life.

Heresy Check: Be vigilant for any signs of heretical teachings or misinterpretations that could lead readers astray.

2. Practical Application

- Relevance: Consider the book’s relevance to its intended audience. Does it address real-life issues faced by Christians today?
- Actionable Advice: Evaluate whether the book provides practical, biblical advice that readers can apply in their daily lives.

3. Considerations
Consider the Author’s Perspective: Understand the author’s theological perspective and the audience they are addressing. Evaluate whether the manuscript effectively communicates to its intended audience and aligns with the author’s theological stance.

Respect the Author’s Voice: Recognise and respect the author’s voice and perspective, even if you may not agree with all aspects of their theological stance. Offer feedback in a supportive and constructive manner, avoiding judgment or criticism of the author’s beliefs.

4. Technicalities/Writing Quality

Assess the Writing Style and Clarity: Evaluate the writing style for clarity, coherence, and accessibility. Consider whether the language used is appropriate for the target audience and whether complex concepts are explained clearly.

Tone: Evaluate the tone of the book. Is it pastoral, encouraging, or challenging in a way that is appropriate for the message and audience?

Grammar and Style: Note any grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, or stylistic issues that could detract from the book’s message.

Evaluate Originality and Contribution: Assess the originality of the manuscript and its contribution to Christian literature. Consider whether the work offers new insights, perspectives, or applications of Christian theology that add value to the field.

Check for Ethical Considerations: Pay attention to any ethical considerations, such as plagiarism, misrepresentation of & uncredited sources, or conflicts of interest. Ensure that the manuscript upholds ethical standards in research and writing.

Captivating and Engaging Content: Does the book engage the reader’s interest? Consider the use of anecdotes, personal stories, or illustrative examples to make the content relatable.

Interesting Challenge to the Reader: Evaluate whether the book challenges readers spiritually, prompting them to grow in their faith or to think more deeply about their beliefs.

Purpose of the Book: Understand the author’s purpose in writing the book. Is this purpose clearly communicated and fulfilled by the content?

Audience: Consider whether the book is appropriate for its intended audience, whether that be lay Christians, church leaders, or a specific demographic.

Spiritual Impact: Reflect on the potential spiritual impact of the book. Could it lead to positive change in the reader’s life?

Contribution to the Field: Assess the book’s contribution to Christian literature. Does it offer a fresh perspective, fill a gap, or provide valuable insights?

5. The Feedback
Impartiality: Review the book impartially, setting aside personal biases and focusing on the content’s adherence to Biblical truth.

Maintain Confidentiality: Treat the manuscript and its contents with confidentiality and respect. Avoid sharing information about the manuscript or your review without permission from the author or publisher.

Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer a balance of positive feedback and constructive criticism. Offer specific feedback on both the strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript. Provide constructive suggestions for improvement in areas such as theological clarity, writing style, argumentation, organisation and flow.

Encouragement and Support: In addition to providing feedback, offer words of encouragement and support to the author. Acknowledge the value of their contribution to Christian literature and express confidence in their ability to address the feedback and further strengthen their manuscript. Let the author know that your critique comes from a place of genuine care and a desire to help them succeed.

Graceful Language: Provide critiques with grace, understanding the effort and spiritual sensitivity required to write a Christian book.

6. Avoid negativity and correct in love
Correcting in love is a concept rooted in Christian teachings, particularly emphasising the importance of approaching correction or criticism with compassion, empathy, and respect. Expanding on this idea in the context of peer reviewing a fiction or non-fiction Christian literature manuscript involves several considerations:

Compassionate Critique: When providing feedback on the manuscript, it’s essential to approach areas needing improvement with compassion and empathy. Recognise that authors invest significant time, effort, and passion into their work, and critique can be challenging to receive. Frame your feedback in a way that shows understanding and empathy for the author’s perspective and intentions.

Respectful Tone: Maintain a respectful and courteous tone throughout your review. Avoid harsh or overly critical language that may come across as disrespectful or discouraging. Instead, strive to offer feedback in a manner that honors the dignity of the author and fosters a constructive dialogue.

Focus on Constructive Criticism: Instead of simply pointing out flaws or shortcomings, focus on providing constructive criticism that offers actionable suggestions for improvement. Highlight specific areas where the manuscript could be strengthened, offering practical advice or recommendations for revision. Frame your feedback in a way that encourages growth and development rather than discouragement.

Affirmation of Strengths: Alongside areas for improvement, acknowledge and affirm the manuscript’s strengths and positive aspects. Highlight what the author has done well, praising their insights, clarity of expression, or theological depth. Balancing constructive criticism with affirmations of the manuscript’s strengths can help maintain a positive and encouraging tone.

Maintain Objectivity: While it’s important to approach critique with love and compassion, it’s also crucial to maintain objectivity and honesty. Don’t shy away from addressing significant flaws or inaccuracies in the manuscript, but do so with a spirit of humility and kindness. Aim to offer feedback that is truthful and constructive, with the goal of helping the author improve their work.

Conclusion
By adhering to these principles of avoiding negativity and correcting in love, you can provide a peer review that is both constructive and compassionate, helping the author to refine their manuscript while maintaining a positive and supportive relationship.

At the end of the review, we are looking to help the writer have a superior manuscript that has theological accuracy, clarity, and contribution to the field of Christian scholarship.