“It has been a privilege to know and work alongside Venetia Hawkes for a number of years, and I’ve seen firsthand her remarkable insight into the art of storytelling. Her new book, ‘We Have Some Notes… The Insider’s Guide to Notes, Script Editing and Development’, is a testament to her deep understanding of the craft.

Having had the pleasure of reading it, I can say without hesitation that this book is an invaluable resource. Venetia’s expertise shines through on every page, making it an essential tool not only for students in film schools but also for anyone who loves and appreciates cinema.

Her thoughtful approach to script editing and development is both accessible and insightful, offering readers a rare insider’s perspective on a crucial part of the filmmaking process. ‘We Have Some Notes…’ is sure to become a go-to guide for anyone who wants to improve their storytelling skills or gain a better understanding of the intricate work that goes into creating great films.”

– David Puttnam, Oscar winning filmmaker

“Invaluable to anyone wanting to work in development!

If anybody is interested in film and TV development, this is essential reading!

Venetia Hawkes has effortlessly distilled decades worth of wisdom here.

Not only does the book contextualise how the role of a script editor arose in UK TV, but it examines how to be an effective and successful script editor / development executive / note giver. By interviewing some of the country’s best writers (Sally Wainwright, Russell T Davies, Lynne Ramsey, Edgar Wright, Alice Lowe and many more) Hawkes has managed to create a book full of tips, insights and anecdotes that will feed into the way you work with writers to craft outstanding stories.

Don’t walk, run and get a copy – this is what gold dust looks like in book form.“

– Ben Murrell, Duck Soup Films

“Such an incredible resource and insight into the process of script development from the industry’s leading figures in both film and TV. Not only invaluable but also an inspirational read, Venetia has created a book that is a must read, for anyone with an interest in storytelling for screen.” 

– Lewis Arnold, BAFTA winning director, Sherwood, Time, Des, The Long Shadow

“At last, a book that uncovers the true workings of the story development process from the perspective of successful writers, script editors and directors, illuminating the creative collaborations and forensic analysis that occurs in the shared pursuit of delivering the best story possible. Jam packed with nuggets for anyone interested in the development process, this book is a celebration of the importance and impact of collaboration withing the film and TV industries”

– Philip Matthews, Bournemouth University

“A must-read for anyone interested in the development of film and television, We Have Some Notes… demystifies what some of the UK’s biggest screenwriters really think about receiving story notes and how they embrace this collaborative process to better their scripts”

– Matthew Evans, University of Georgia, USA

“I came across this after listening to Venetia on The Directors Take Podcast and that episode was an absolute gem of an insight. So I bought the book. If you’ve ever been on either side of the “notes” process—giving or receiving—you’ll know how delicate it is. This book nails what it takes to get it right without bruising egos or killing creativity.

What makes this stand out is how real it feels. It’s not just textbook advice; it’s packed with insights from industry legends like Russell T Davies and Simon Beaufoy, who tell it straight. Their honesty about the highs and lows of collaboration is refreshing and, honestly, a bit comforting. You’re not alone in finding notes challenging—it’s all part of the process.

What I love is how this book doesn’t just talk about improving scripts; it talks about improving relationships. Notes are personal—your work and your identity can feel so intertwined—and Hawkes captures that beautifully. It’s about building trust, being constructive, and helping a project thrive without stepping on anyone’s vision.

This book is practical, inspiring, and a great read whether you’re a writer, filmmaker, or someone who just loves getting into the nitty-gritty of storytelling. Highly recommend adding this to your shelf—it’s the kind of book you’ll keep going back to.”

– Ramson Hada

“I devoured this book in one sitting, and bought a second copy as a gift for my Godson, who is studying filmmaking at University. Incredible interviews with some Industry giants of screenwriting/ directing. Hawkes has somehow managed to speak to so many writers from Film and TV, and in doing so has created a wonderful snapshot of their individual writing process, and how they deal with Studio / script notes . Thoroughly recommend.”

– John Lee

“Full of wit and wisdom.Thoroughly enjoyed this book. The interviews are a pleasure, not just for the advice the writers/filmmakers pass on, but they are lovely little pen portraits of the people that really put you in their company. As an aspiring screenwriter there are so many good nuggets of wisdom to take away. I’d definitely recommend to any writer in any medium.”

– Phil Reilly, screenwriter