Years ago, I used to devour Stephen King's books. The Shining, Cujo, Carrie, It, Christine - all of which have become classics in the horror genre. BuYears ago, I used to devour Stephen King's books. The Shining, Cujo, Carrie, It, Christine - all of which have become classics in the horror genre. But after having nightmares from reading Misery, I swore off Stephen King's books altogether. Until now, when I picked up On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. This is not a typical how-to book - it doesn't contain writing prompts, or sample cover letters, or editing techniques. Rather, King uses words to weave together his life and his writing, showing how, from an early age, his life experiences shaped his path as a writer. For new writers who are looking for hand-holding, King's book might be frustrating; for example, he reflects on the common question writers get from interviewers ("Where do you get your ideas?") by declaring how utterly silly that question is (because writers don't find ideas - ideas find us, and our job is to be open to them). King shares with the reader elements of his difficult childhood, his alcoholism and drug addiction, and his devastating car accident - all of which have been covered extensively in the media, but also give insight and clarity into his writing process. All in all, an excellent read - enough to make me consider picking up one of his books again. ...more
Great book about children's picture book writing. I found the writing exercises peppered throughout the book to be very helpful. I particularly apprecGreat book about children's picture book writing. I found the writing exercises peppered throughout the book to be very helpful. I particularly appreciated Paul's discussions on voice and perspective, rhythm and plotting, and character development. I'm not trained in creative writing per se, but I found the creative writing component of the book to be stronger than what I've found in other children's book writing/publishing books. I do wish there was more focus on the publication aspect, as it is very challenging to get the attention of mainstream children's publishing houses. ...more
I was introduced to The Artist's Way back in 2005 when I took a college class on creativity. If I hadn't signed up for that class, I'm sure I would haI was introduced to The Artist's Way back in 2005 when I took a college class on creativity. If I hadn't signed up for that class, I'm sure I would have never picked up this book. I expected The Artist's Way to be full of fluffy, New-Agey platitudes, and I approached it with cynicism and skepticism. However, I kept an open mind. I read each chapter thoroughly. I did the morning pages every day and an artist's date once a week. I did a handful of the exercises at the end of each chapter. And my life changed.
The morning pages resulted in an award-winning nonfiction book, a series of children's picture book manuscripts, and the willingness to embark upon another, more challenging nonfiction book writing project. The artist's dates renewed my childlike love for the fiber arts, and I began creating beautiful handwork projects. I learned to surf. I joined a writing group. Most importantly, even more important than the concrete examples of creativity that have resulted, I was given a set of tools for life - tools that enable me to challenge that critical voice in my head, and to trust my instincts.
I can't say enough about this book. It came into my life during a difficult time, and it has dovetailed beautifully with recovery in other areas in my life. ...more
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