Journal Writing, Creative Writing, Nonfiction Writing - General & Miscellaneous, Creativity
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Overview
This book will help clear the obstacles that keep so many would-be journal writers from committing their thoughts to paper. The author lays down simple guidelines of approach to journal writing, conscious of everyday constraints such as lack of available time or writer's block. Excerpts from the author's own journal, from the journals of famous writers throughout the ages, and beneficial exercises all provide inspiration and instruction for the novice and habitual journal writer alike. Notes from Myself is a convincing argument for the creative act of writing and a splendid guide for beginners. As more and more people turn to introspective expository writing in an age of increased depersonalization and shallow public communication, this book serves as a readable and enjoyable signpost along the road to grounding one's self.Editorials
Library Journal
Both these books are about creative writing and finding a voice. Both talk about the healing power of the writing process. Aldrich, a creative writing teacher, focuses on journal writing. Her book is divided into three sections. The first includes reasons to keep a journal, how to do it, and a set of exercises to get started and overcome blocks. Section two is about different types of people who keep journals, and section three is a collection of entries from the author's own journals to use as examples for would-be journal writers. Her book includes many quotes from famous journal keepers and a useful annotated bibliography. Aronie, whose essays are aired on National Public Radio's All Things Considered, writes to inspire writers. Her style is warm and her message infectious. She too includes exercises to guide her readers. A major part of her message is just to get the paper and pen in contact with each other and worry about grammar and spelling and other "school stuff" after the habit of writing has been formed. This book, which compares favorably with Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird (LJ 8/94) and Natalie Goldberg's Writing Down the Bones (1986), is more readable than Aldrich's and is recommended for all public libraries.Lisa J. Cihlar, Monroe P.L., Wis.Book Details
Published
August 31, 1997
Publisher
Carroll & Graf Publishers Inc
Pages
160
Format
Paperback
ISBN
9780786704330