A Book for Writers

A writer friend loaned me her copy of Chapter After Chapter by Heather Sellers. I read it and purchased a copy for myself and another writer so we could discuss it. For me, this book stands out as one of the few, or perhaps only, that speaks directly to the writer about the day-to-day stamina needed to pursue the life of a writer. The author talks about how to maintain momentum on the current project, how to deflect those clever sabotage ideas that try to lure us away from the writing at hand, what to do to get the MOST from a writer's conference, how to "stay in the writing," and so much more. One of my favorite chapters was the one she wrote on critique groups and what they need to be to keep a writer's energy focused and productive. Another chapter addresses the "I think I'm done,I must be done" monster that sticks its head up right when the author needs another couple more rounds of revision.

This book does not discuss the business end of publishing nor does it offer strategies or exercises on craft. Rather it's a book that provides courage, insight, understanding and a dose of perseverance to the serious writer who is always at work on the next book.