With this book, Anne Lamott shows us the glory of writing.
She has written about 20 books, give or take. So, she has the experience to back up the advice she gives.
What Was Lamott Inspired By?
She uses her own writing life and her relationship with her friends and family for most of the examples and occasionally uses the writing of fellow authors, whether or not she likes them.
The Book is Divided Into Five Parts
The first four, Writing, Writing Frame of Mind, Help Along the Way, and Publication and Other Reasons to Write, are self-explanatory. Publication and Other Reasons to write struck me as some advice that is both uncommon and valuable. Many would-be authors see publication as the prize, and this can get in the way; she has some suggestions for you on that front.
The last section, The Last Class, is a tiny little section and gives advice such as write for vengeance but do it nicely and don’t libel yourself.
Who Is This Book For?
Anyone who wants to write who likes to laugh, feels neurotic about writing and sharing that writing, gets jealous of other people’s writing success or needs writing advice that isn’t boring. And that will cover most of us. So, if you want to be an author, put this on your must-read list.
What Does She Suggest?
Lamott suggests whether you are writing fiction or nonfiction, keep your eyes open, ears perked and use what you observe and hear around you. She also suggests you turn those fine-tuned observation skills toward your own internal life and use that too.
Although there is some how-to in the book, there are no exercises laid out for you to try. You get to take what she has given you and make those up for yourself.
“Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.” - Anne Lammot
Grab your copy
Let me know what you thought of the book in the comments!
– Keep writing
Melody Ann
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