Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird
I have been reading and discussing this book on Fiction Scribe since August. I don’t think I have ever taken that long to read a book, but I enjoyed getting the chance to discuss it with others. (Feel free to drop in on any discussion.)
I’ve read quite a few books on writing at this point, and Lamott does an excellent job of presenting something valuable and unique.
While many chapters I read were unexpected and reminded me I certainly don’t know everything about writing, I still found it all enjoyable. Many of the lessons Lamott taught were things I’d long forgotten or never heard of.
She presents an excellent mix of exercises, personal experience, writer neuroses, and quotes. When I finished reading this book, I didn’t find myself wanting for anything. (Besides some more commentary about Lamott’s strange and interesting mind workings.)
The organization of the ‘classes’ was excellently done, the ‘last class’ presenting exactly the ending I wanted from this book. She concentrates on the writing and talks about the passion for the art rather than trying to say writing is all about getting published.
If you’re looking for a black and white, this is how you get published type of book on writing, this isn’t the book for you. However, if you are looking to explore why you write, how to get through the dark times of being a writer, and what your writing can mean for you, then this is definitely the book for you. It’s interesting, funny, and touching, all wrapped up in one book.
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