Do you have a blog? Is writing in some form a part of your daily routine? Do you dream of someday writing for a living? Do you wonder if you could really do it, and what a life like that would be like? It is all about the jewels, the jets and the parties, right?
As a part of The Virtual Book Tour, I have just finished reading Bookmark Now: Writing in Unreaderly Times. (Now available at Amazon.) Kevin Smokler edited the collection of writing by a number of of authors, and it is a fabulous insight on what being a writer is truly about.
The book is divided into three sections; “Beginnings” features essays on the process of becoming a writer, “The Writing Life” shares insights on what being a writer is all about, “The Now” deals with issues in the publishing industry, and ”The Future” focuses on where it is all going.
When I first looked at the book, I saw names I was familiar with – Pamela Ribon, Dan Kennedy, Neal Pollack – and others that I had not heard of before, but now want to be sure to check out. But the book wasn’t about the names to me – it was about the stories. The genuine glimpse into the life of a writer. It was like checking out the “behind the scenes” clips on your favorite DVD; a chance to see what makes it all work.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a relatively quick read, but one that I spent time with, rereading different parts, soaking it all in. It inspired me to want to do more, whether it is to write, to photograph, or to simply create. If you have ever wanted to write a book, read this book. If you love to read books, read this book. I honestly recommend it, and it will have a treasured spot on my bookcase until I take it down to have Kevin sign it for me someday. (He’ll be on the road for the book tour – be sure to check and see if it stops in your city!)
Take your talents and use them wisely, make the most of them. If you need some inspiration, read this book.
Last time I did a VBT post, I took questions from others about the book, and I felt like it really helped provide more insight into the book then I might have otherwise. If you have any questions, feel free to ask! I would love to answer them.
6 replies on “Bookmark Now: Writing in Unreaderly Times…”
This looks like a very interesting book!
Goodness! Not only have you completed a beautiful Clapotis, but you’ve also knit socks and a wedding wrap! Great knitting!
I’ve been trying to comment on the more recent post to say congratulations on your first sock but it won’t let me in for some reason… so i’ll say it here. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
Yes, I agree with Martha… can’t get access to comment on the sock for some reason. Very lovely sock. And sounds like a very lovely book as well! A book like that is just the type of thing that I adore.
On an unrelated note… I sent you an e-mail last week about renewing my hosting (because my freebie, Win-a-blog year is up next week), and I’m getting a little nervous about my blog going “dark.” So if you have a moment, PLEASE let me know about renewing my hosting? Because I have no idea which hosting package I’ve had this past year (courtesy of you), etc.
Thank you!
Ok, that is just bizarre. What is up with that? Why won’t it let people comment? Comments are turned “on” so it should be behaving. Hmmm…
Syd, I kept thinking of you as I read the book. It even had a section on life while going for the MFA. I really think you should read it.
Red, don’t worry. It’s definitely not going to just suddenly “go dark” on you – as soon as I do billing work, I’ll hook you up. You’re all good.
I’d love to read it sometime, I’ll add it to my list! Great sock by the way 🙂