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...