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kellylynnthomas's review
4.0
First, the thing I really didn't like about this book: It had a few too many quotes from other writers, and some of the essays it collected were only excerpts (I think), not the full piece.
Now, what I really did like about it: It's the only writing book I've ever read that focuses on the pleasures of writing. All the other books focus on the all the hard work and drudgery of it, the craft, the dedication you need, blah blah blah. The Asimovs assume you already are dedicated to writing. They assume you already know how to do it. They don't write down to you. It's refreshing. And Asimov writes with a dry humor that's funny and enjoyable.
Some of the things in here are a bit outdated (typewriters), but the advice is all still applicable. And it's so sensible! So reasonable! Like, don't try to be a prolific writer if you want your work to be perfect, because it's not going to be.
I would definitely recommend this to any writer, especially anyone who's feeling sad, lonely, or depressed about their writing.
Now, what I really did like about it: It's the only writing book I've ever read that focuses on the pleasures of writing. All the other books focus on the all the hard work and drudgery of it, the craft, the dedication you need, blah blah blah. The Asimovs assume you already are dedicated to writing. They assume you already know how to do it. They don't write down to you. It's refreshing. And Asimov writes with a dry humor that's funny and enjoyable.
Some of the things in here are a bit outdated (typewriters), but the advice is all still applicable. And it's so sensible! So reasonable! Like, don't try to be a prolific writer if you want your work to be perfect, because it's not going to be.
I would definitely recommend this to any writer, especially anyone who's feeling sad, lonely, or depressed about their writing.
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