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4.03 AVERAGE
4.03 AVERAGE
This was a GREAT book. Concise, step-by-step advice on how to get published in an easily digestible format. There are loads of great examples throughout the book from essays to cover letters. Highly suggest if you need that boost to take you to the next level!
Great inspiration, even for experienced writers
If you’re looking to build your influence and credibility, getting your short nonfiction published in a major publication could be just the thing. Shapiro’s voice is warm and engaging, and for the most part she formats the book so it’s a fast read (lots of lists, subheads, etc.). She includes a TON of sample published essays & articles (both hers and her students), though personally, I wish she would’ve just included links to the pieces instead — it made the book longer than it needed to be.
If you’re looking to build your influence and credibility, getting your short nonfiction published in a major publication could be just the thing. Shapiro’s voice is warm and engaging, and for the most part she formats the book so it’s a fast read (lots of lists, subheads, etc.). She includes a TON of sample published essays & articles (both hers and her students), though personally, I wish she would’ve just included links to the pieces instead — it made the book longer than it needed to be.
If you want to get published, read this book. If you need encouragement to write, read this book. If you enjoy essays that will make you laugh, cry and say "wowsa!" then read this book. Susan Shapiro is a prolific, creative and wicked smart writer who also happens to speak plain English and is generous, kind, funny, and supportive of aspiring writers.
There is so much helpful information in this book! I borrowed it from the library but plan to purchase it and keep it next to my bed because, like a bible, it can be picked up and thumbed through any time I'm looking for inspiration.
The stories and anecdotes are funny and illustrative. The essay examples cover a range of interesting subjects and experiences. They are so good in fact, that I recommend this book to non-writers, just anyone who loves a good essay. The exercises, lists and call-out boxes are easy on the eyes and brain. Chapters cover topics every writer needs to know. One of my favorites is Chapter 2 "The Joy of Getting Killed," which begins "After you've written and revised your piece several times, you are not ready for fame, fun, and fortune. You are ready for feedback." Handling criticism is an art and a requirement of writing. From personal experience I know that to grow as a writer you have to be willing to put yourself out there, be clumsy, awkward, willing to rebound from humiliation, keep revising and don't give up. With my mom gone, when I need a pep talk, I will open my Byline Bible. Thank you Susan Shapiro!
There is so much helpful information in this book! I borrowed it from the library but plan to purchase it and keep it next to my bed because, like a bible, it can be picked up and thumbed through any time I'm looking for inspiration.
The stories and anecdotes are funny and illustrative. The essay examples cover a range of interesting subjects and experiences. They are so good in fact, that I recommend this book to non-writers, just anyone who loves a good essay. The exercises, lists and call-out boxes are easy on the eyes and brain. Chapters cover topics every writer needs to know. One of my favorites is Chapter 2 "The Joy of Getting Killed," which begins "After you've written and revised your piece several times, you are not ready for fame, fun, and fortune. You are ready for feedback." Handling criticism is an art and a requirement of writing. From personal experience I know that to grow as a writer you have to be willing to put yourself out there, be clumsy, awkward, willing to rebound from humiliation, keep revising and don't give up. With my mom gone, when I need a pep talk, I will open my Byline Bible. Thank you Susan Shapiro!
informative
slow-paced
This is a perfect step by step guide on how to craft your own short story. it talks you through how to spot the right topic from what is popular at present and use that topic to draft and then weave the strands of a short story and then work to see you name on the byline of your favourite short story published.
informative
reflective
slow-paced
A witty, practical, energizing handbook for anyone hoping to pitch articles and short pieces. Because of this book, I got an essay accepted by a major online publication in my genre(s). Unfortunately, it ended up getting killed because of a logistical issue but--it was accepted!
Excellent tips! Loved reading her students short-stories throughout the book. Wonderful examples and tips. Would be intrigued to take one of Susan Schapiro’s classes!
A great resource if you're interested in getting started writing short nonfiction. Shapiro's tips and guidance is practical and great reminders even if you're not new to the genre. The included examples provide a useful road map but are also enjoyable for what they are.
This is an essential book if you are an aspiring writer - especially if you are looking to pitch your stories to a magazine! Susan Shapiro talks about the art of writing essays, and how you can get better at the task. As a journalist, I can definitely see myself using the tips on this book in my daily life. I love how it is packed with tips and examples, from Susan herself and also from her students over the years. You can see what worked and what not, and even how to prepare your cover letter that accompanies your story. A must read!