Sometimes setting pen to paper requires bravery, and writing well means breaking free of the rules learned in school. Liberating and emboldening the beginning writer are the goals of Ted Kooser and Steve Cox in this spirited book of practical wisdom that brings to bear decades of invaluable experience in writing, teaching, editing, and publishing.
Unlike "how to write" books that dwell on the angst and the agony of the trade, Writing Brave and Free is upbeat and accessible. The focus here is the work itself: how to get started and how to keep going, and never is heard a discouraging word such as "no," "not," or "never." Because of the wealth of their experience, the authors can offer the sort of practical publishing advice that novices need and yet rarely find. Organized in brief, user-friendly chapters--on everything from sensory details to a work environment, from creating suspense to revising and taking criticism--the book allows aspiring (and practicing) writers to dip in anywhere and find something of value.
(12/01/2006)
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Best Encouragement Towards Writing:
I am a new Poet, just starting out after retirement (Military) and have found Ted Kooser, to be one of the "Best" in the business. He certainly gives MUCH - MUCH Encouragement, in wanting to write. His advice, especially towards "processes" is Outstanding. I wish he would write more, towards techniques in writing poetry. "Thank You"
T. R. Harmon
A small book with much in it:
I have been writing for over forty years, and it seems to me I might have done better with it all had I paid more attention to one central piece of advice given in this book, the advice about listening to the reader, caring to communicate with the reader, learning from the reader's reaction.
This book is a very friendly guide to the writer and would - be- writer. It is written with a clearness and common sense and real concern for helping out 'others'. Its spirit, its unpretentiousness, clarity are... more info
Motivating:
This book is excellent for someone who may have inhibitions when it comes to expressing themselves in their writing...someone who just needs a slight push to feel less apprehensive. I felt it was more for someone who just started writing or who wants to write, but has been too afraid vs. someone whose seriously looking to improve their craft.
Who says you can't write?:
This is not your every day how-to book about writing. Nor is it a writing text book. It's a solid, easy to follow guide to get you writing after all the years of saying you wish you could. It won't guarantee you'll be published. But it will give you realistic suggestions that if followed will help you improve your writing.
Co-author Ted Kooser follows his own advice: he communicates. To Kooser, all writing is communication and if it's poorly written communication fails. Kooser is a former Poet... more info
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