Writing Naturally: A Down-to-Earth Guide to Nature Writing

Library Journal

As with the NPR program Car Talk, so with Writing Naturally: you needn't have a special affinity for the topic to find it delightfully entertaining. But for those interested in the craft of nature writing, Petersen brings years of experience as a teacher, editor, and author (Heartsblood) to this lively work of technique and inspiration. Nature writing differs from natural history writing by focusing on the author's reflections on both life and nature. Petersen offers advice that applies to good writing in general: have a passion for the subject, maintain journals, conduct careful research, use figurative language, and revise continually. He also offers practical tips on publishing, working with editors and agents, and accepting criticism. Pertinent examples, quotes from other authors, and optional exercises complete this exceptional manual. Highly recommended for academic and public libraries and essential for aspiring nature writers. Maureen J. Delaney-Lehman, Lake Superior State Univ., Sault Ste. Marie, MI Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

Booknews

The much-published teacher/author praises most the autodidactic method, wherein the perpetual student reads as a writer, practices craft in a focused manner, revises tirelessly, and garners informed, objective criticism about his or her work. Toward these ends Petersen's topics include journal writing, research, titles, openings and closings, tense and person, voice, revision, and workshops, most of these topics well related to genres outside nature writing. No notes. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)