Don’t take it personally. Keep in mind that the point of this exercise is to address areas of your text that will lend to academic credibility. Please carefully consider the comments of others with knowledge in your field.
Do look at reviewer comments objectively and give yourself time to consider the following questions when deciding on the revisions you’ll make:
Do you have additional data to support statements or claims made in your manuscript?
Are suggestions made by the reviewers applicable to the scope and audience of your book?
Is more than one reviewer suggesting a specific change? If one reviewer has a suggestion, it may just indicate their preference, but if multiple people do, chances are they’re onto something.
Is there a point of positive feedback you may be able to broaden to other parts of your book?
Typically, reviewers will provide constructive feedback about how an author can strengthen their content before publishing their book as a first edition. Reviewers may only provide minor feedback if they feel that content fits the scope of the book, or they may suggest more substantive updates to ensure that your book meets standards for the discipline and contains current, reliable sources.
Consider consulting coauthors or colleagues who know your content area for advice. Oftentimes they can help you navigate any challenging feedback or provide a neutral perspective.
If reviewers cite the length of your book as a particular concern, consider asking your acquisitions editor about the potential for publishing a series or multiple volumes.
Whenever asked, please do thoroughly cite sources or include data in support of any arguments, claims, or statements made.
