Book Review: 100 Ways to Improve Your Writing (Updated) by Gary Provost As someone who has danced my way through countless pages of fiction and non-fiction alike, I often find myself asking: what makes good writing truly resonate? So when I stumbled upon 100 Ways to Improve Your Writing (Updated) by the talented Gary Provost, I knew I had to add it to my desk. It’s not just a book; it’s practically a cheerleader for anyone with a passion for writing—a personal coach that urges you to dig deeper...

Review of On Writing Well by William Zinsser As a book blogger, I’ve encountered my fair share of writing guides, but few have resonated with me as deeply as William Zinsser's On Writing Well. What initially drew me to this book was its legendary status in the writing community, coupled with countless recommendations from fellow writers who swore it transformed their craft. Given my own struggles with clarity and expression in writing, I was curious: could Zinsser’s insights really illuminate my path? From the very first page, Zinsser's warm, conversational...

Embracing the Art of Self-Editing: A Review of On Editing by Helen Corner-Bryant and Kathryn Price As a writer, the journey from first draft to polished manuscript can often feel like navigating through a dense fog. I found myself wrestling with overwhelming self-doubt and uncertainty—those pesky crows, circling overhead, mocking me with every typo and plot hole. When I stumbled upon On Editing: How to Edit with Confidence and Elevate Your Writing, authored by the insightful Helen Corner-Bryant and Kathryn Price, it felt like the gentle nudge I needed...

Unleashing the Power of Words: A Personal Reflection on The Vocabulary Builder Workbook As a lifelong lover of literature, I’ve often found myself enchanted by the magic of words. When I stumbled upon The Vocabulary Builder Workbook: Simple Lessons and Activities to Teach Yourself Over 1,400 Must-Know Words, authored by Chris Lele, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. After all, there’s a certain thrill in discovering new ways to express oneself, especially when those words can elevate not only our conversations but also our written communication. From...

How to Read Now by Elaine Castillo: A Deep Dive into the Art of Reading From the moment I picked up How to Read Now by Elaine Castillo, I felt an exhilarating pull, a whisper suggesting that this was a book both personal and provocative. Perhaps it was the promise of a fresh lens through which to explore the aggravating and joyous nuances of reading culture—something that many of us have been grappling with but struggling to articulate. The essays within aren’t merely academic musings; they feel like heartfelt...

Review: Writing on the Job: Best Practices for Communicating in the Digital Age (Skills for Scholars) When I stumbled upon Writing on the Job by Martha Coven, a smile crept across my face. As someone who has struggled with the fine art of concise writing—often drowning in a sea of words—I felt an instant connection with this compact guide that promised to demystify professional communication in the digital age. The title immediately piqued my interest, as every day presents new opportunities (and challenges!) to articulate thoughts clearly and effectively. Coven,...

Review of Very Good Copy: 207 Micro-Lessons on Thinking and Writing Like a Copywriter by Eddie Shleyner As a writer and avid reader, I often find myself in search of inspiration that strikes a balance between creativity and practical advice. So, when I stumbled upon Eddie Shleyner's Very Good Copy, I felt an inexplicable pull. Known for his insightful newsletter that distills the essence of copywriting into digestible nuggets, Shleyner's promise of 207 micro-lessons on thinking and writing resonated deeply with my quest for improvement in the craft of...

Unleashing Creativity with Time to Write: A Personal Journey Ever felt that familiar tug in your heart, the whisper of an untold story waiting to take shape? That’s exactly what drew me to Time to Write: Inspiring lessons and practical skills for writing the novel you’ve always wanted by Emily Winslow. As a long-time aspirant author constantly juggling myriad distractions, I found this book to be a warm and compelling invitation to finally put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard!). Emily Winslow, an acclaimed author and educator at Cambridge...

Handiwork: A Reflection on Creation and Connection When I first picked up Handiwork by Sara Baume, I felt an immediate spark of familiarity. As someone who recently transitioned from a corporate HR job to a life steeped in photography, I understand the profound connection between creativity and personal growth. Baume’s exploration of her own artistic journey after her father's death resonated deeply with my own experiences, and I felt as though she was reflecting parts of my soul back to me. In Handiwork, Baume embarks on a project—though she hesitantly...

Review of Learn Like a Pro by Barbara Oakley and Olav Schell As a mother of four little ones under five, the idea of learning effectively often feels like a world away—like trying to study with a circus in your living room. So, when Learn Like a Pro landed in my lap, I couldn't resist diving in, hoping for some tips to master the chaotic educational landscape that fills my days. Barbara Oakley and Olav Schell’s book immediately caught my eye, but I couldn't help chuckling when I read...