This is a perfect step by step guide on how to craft your own short story. it talks you through how to spot the right topic from what is popular at present and use that topic to draft and then weave the strands of a short story and then work to see you name on the byline of your favourite short story published.

The Byline Bible has a great premise: “..the bestselling author of 12 books walks you through every stage of crafting and selling short nonfiction pieces. She shows you how to spot trendy subjects, where to start, finish and edit, and divulges specific steps to submit work, have it accepted, get paid, and see your byline in your favorite publication in lightning speed."

In execution, though, this reads like a brag book. Reading each chapter involves slogging through extensive lists detailing past projects that have been published by the author, her friends, or her past students. Sometimes I struggled to even find the lesson within the seemingly never-ending lists.

The entire time I was reading, I felt like the author adapted various lectures she's given by beefing them up with more examples than she would dare to use if giving this lesson in person. I had been looking forward to learning from a pro, but instead this book was just a tedious drag.

Definitely not my cup of tea.

Thank you to NetGalley and F+W Media for providing me with a DRC of this book.

Really useful tool for writers looking to increase their revenue streams and how to develop their ideas.

Informative and fun to read. Reading The Byline Bible tells you everything you need to know about writing for publication.

Having been a student of nonfiction writing as well as a teacher, this is one of the books that is great, not only for the classroom. But for any aspiring writer, trying to give it a go. And with so many experts weighing in on the writing process, it's a wonderful guide to follow.

A great resource if you're interested in getting started writing short nonfiction. Shapiro's tips and guidance is practical and great reminders even if you're not new to the genre. The included examples provide a useful road map but are also enjoyable for what they are.

This book is not what I typically choose to read, which is fiction and memoirs. When I read the blurb about The Byline Bible I was intrigued. I haven't had any of my writing published since I was a staff writer on my college newspaper. This book inspired me and made me want to get back into writing. I enjoyed the author's writing style and her use of specific examples throughout the book. I especially enjoyed her ideas about what to do and not to do at every step along the way to having one's writing published. I think this book is plentiful with valuable information and user friendly tips for writers. It was certainly worth a read!

A really useful resource for writers. Presented in an engaging manner and thus easy to read, the author takes the reader from basics onwards with plenty of interesting examples of what, and what not, to do. Getting your writing noticed can be a huge first hurdle and this book will set you on the right path.

Well designed book for those interested in writing and getting their Byline. You'll get tips about what editors are wanting and how to get published. Learn about cover letters too. This is helpful

This is an essential book if you are an aspiring writer - especially if you are looking to pitch your stories to a magazine! Susan Shapiro talks about the art of writing essays, and how you can get better at the task. As a journalist, I can definitely see myself using the tips on this book in my daily life. I love how it is packed with tips and examples, from Susan herself and also from her students over the years. You can see what worked and what not, and even how to prepare your cover letter that accompanies your story. A must read!

Shapiro covers every possible aspect of magazine article writing. It's a thorough and practical guide for any aspiring writer. As a blogger and non-fiction writer, I took away a ton of tips and advice that I know I will use going forward in my writing.

I requested a copy of The Byline Bible because I am always interested in finding new income streams to support my editing work and fiction writing, and I wondered if articles might be the way to go. If anything, this book has made me reconsider that. I personally don't think I have the time to dedicate to all the research etc. needed. However, although it has put me off the idea at present, I do think this is a useful, well-presented book. Shapiro outlined the different stages involved in getting your articles into print, along with some excellent examples for inspiration and guidance. So if you are someone considering a career, or side job, in article writing, I would definitely recommend this book to set you on your way.