I personally believe that you should get college credit if you manage to read this entire book cover to cover. It is big! It's also incredibly thorough and is immensely helpful for both beginning and experienced writers. It's compiled of advice from a wide pool of published authors on everything you could possibly think to ask about. A must-have for authors.

I read a digital ARC of this book for review (though I have my own older version at home).

An extremely useful reference guide to the business of writing and publishing a novel, from the first idea all the way to navigating the publishing world.

When I look for writing books, I typically assess them on a simple matrix—Did I find enough practical content to justify recommending the book?  Mind you, there are many great inspirational books for writers (see my list below).  But I have found that most writers who approach me for a book recommendation want both inspiration and application, something they can do immediately.  And yes, there are plenty of those as well. *

When I received an ebook arc of The Poets & Writers Complete Guide to Being a Writer by Kevin Larimer and Mary Gannon, I was prepared for some useful information and maybe some inspiration although I was a bit skeptical about that word “complete.” Sounds a bit presumptuous  of the authors.  I mean, when I think of complete I think of everything from the basic act of writing itself to publication and there is a lot of stuff that goes on between starting a written piece—from outline to the actual writing thereof to editing to . . . well, you get the idea.

Rarely, at least for me, have I found a book that made me want to immediately go out and buy it.  I’m content borrowing from the public library.  But reading this book had me practically jumping up to get writing.  In fact, I reached a point where I realized that I would never finish the book if I just kept allowing myself the indulgence of reading until I felt the urge to write.  I had to force myself to ignore anything that made me want to write and just read the book all the way through.  Yes, it is that inspirational; it made me want to write. 

And they are not kidding when they say they cover it all.  There are suggestions on how to plan your financial needs, how to create a calendar for freelance writing, and, intersperse with the chapters are short sections from various authors giving words of advice, writing about their own experience as a writer, or recommending books. 

Hands down, this is the best book on writing I have read in ages.  Yes, I bought a copy for myself.  I also bought a copy for a writer friend of mine.  If you feel overwhelmed by how very many books on writing there are out there and can’t figure out where to begin, I don’t think you could go wrong with this book.  Make the investment in yourself and your writing. 

But a word of caution:  DO NOT BUY THE EBOOK.  There are a plethora of “Action Items” throughout the book and in the ebook format it become merged with the main part of the text. It took me a while to realize what was happening.  So right now, I have a hardcover copy of this book and I feel it is money very well spent.

Tons of useful tips and strategies for prose and poetry writers alike. Would recommend for creative writers who want to put a little more focus into their career and find ways to succeed in a way that brings them fulfillment.

A must read for anyone interested in publishing. This comprehensive guidebook outlines so many pressing questions and is chock filled with gems, this book should cost more than it’s priced at. An absolute necessary read

Without question, The Poets & Writers Complete Guide to Being a Writer is the most comprehensive and readable guide to the writing life I’ve ever encountered. Blending writing prompts, tips, interviews, reading lists from published authors and much more, the book walks us through the life cycle of writing and publishing, covering everything from creative ideation to finding an agent, the pros and cons of a formal writing education, crafting a successful query and beyond. 

The book is filled with the kind of practical wisdom I crave, but don’t often find in similar works. The combination of real-world advice, like how to manage finances and taxes as a writer, plus pairing each chapter with actionable steps make it something I’ll come back to for more than just inspiration (though it has plenty of that, too!)

This book answered questions about my writing career that I didn’t even know I had, and for that I am grateful. I’ll be adding a copy to my shelves once it’s out. Thank you Avid Reader Press and NetGalley for the chance to read!