Monday, June 3, 2013

Review: Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott




I don't write many reviews. I do rate books on Goodreads, but I tend not to review them on the blog.

My agent put me on to this book. I've tried out some writing guides before, and found that while they had great ideas, many of them could've been found on the web for free. The difference is, that this author suggests resounding, practical ways to write. She has an alternative word for 'writer's block' that I find delightful, and optimistic. No time is wasted in her world - so much of her daily experience helps inspire and contribute to her writing. If you've read my past posts, you'll know how agitating I find the statement that 'We must write every day,' because many proponents of this don't often suggest practical ways to ensure we can do this.

Lamott recommends going away from the computer and 'filling up' by doing other things. It's probably been said before, in some other form - but she explains things in such reassuring, funny ways that it's just inspiring.

Also, she nails the experience of being a first time published author.

Five stars.

JB

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