Take Joy: A Book for Writers

A refreshingly unpretentious and (as the title would suggest) non-gloomy book on the writing life. It reads well in small bits of time, Yolen's voice here is experienced and likable, and I especially appreciate her repeated little nods to the challenges of writing while caring for children.

This has turned out to be the best sort of inspiration/tutorial hybrid. Meaning that I couldn't imagine the existence of such an animal before reading this.

Ms. Yolen shares anecdotes and advice in the midst of explaining exactly what she thinks a plot should be, and the stages of story, and what should be paid attention to in each case. Only she also cautions against assuming that all stories, or authors, will happen the same way. Or be chopped up into these particular pieces.

The inspiration I think I will carry with me, and refer to when I've read something amazing written by another and despair at my own efforts (should that be the mood I'm in), but also to alleviate the business sense that writing has taken on as I learn more about show more the publishing industry.

Write for the joy of it. Ms. Yolen is very wise to say so. show less

An easy-to-carry bundle of therapy for writers of all genres and experience levels. While some of the book's references feel outdated now, the overall messages and advice still feels very relevant today. Good to keep nearby for the moments when you need a boost of encouragement!

Most of all, I appreciate Chapter 13: An Eruption of Poppies, which is about incorporating landscape into your stories. This is a topic I haven't seen much of in other books on writing. I enjoyed being able to read about writing without being asked to do exercises every few pages (think essay collection, not instruction manual), and I like her attitude toward writing (see the title, plus the summary above). But except for Chapter 13, I don't know as I'll remember much about this book six months from now except for a pleasant feeling of, "Yeah, I liked it."

I picked this one up because I've liked Yolen's fiction, but I'm not sure I'd keep it if I did another culling of my writing books. I'm not sure where the weaknesses are for me, but I did find myself skipping sections.

Also good advice from Jane, although it's a bit more traditional. But she knows what she's talking about.