1. Be Enthusiastic and Engaged:
* Start with genuine excitement: Let them know you're interested in reading their work. Something like, "I'm so excited to hear your story! Tell me all about it."
* Ask questions: Encourage them to elaborate on their ideas, characters, and the world they created.
* Show active listening: Make eye contact, nod, and use verbal cues like "uh-huh" and "interesting" to show you're paying attention.
2. Offer Constructive Feedback:
* Focus on the positives first: Start by highlighting what you enjoyed about the story: the characters, the setting, the plot, etc.
* Be specific: Instead of saying "It was good," say "I really loved how you described the character's emotions."
* Suggest areas for improvement: Offer specific advice on things like pacing, dialogue, or character development. Frame it as a suggestion, not a criticism.
* Be honest but kind: If you have concerns, express them gently and offer alternatives. Remember, they're still learning!
3. Ask Questions to Deepen Your Understanding:
* "What inspired you to write this story?"
* "What was the most challenging part of writing it?"
* "What message do you hope readers take away from it?"
* "Are you planning to write more stories like this?"
4. Offer Help with Editing:
* If they're open to it, offer to read their story for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
* Suggest they use a free online grammar checker or find a writing group for feedback.
5. Encourage and Support:
* Let them know you believe in their writing and encourage them to keep creating.
* Offer to be a regular reader of their work.
* Share their story with others (with their permission, of course!).
Remember, the most important thing is to be supportive and encouraging. Sharing their writing is a vulnerable act, so make them feel safe and appreciated!