A New Leaf: Ideas for Writing, Inspired by Trees

by M.S.D. Samston

Writing prompts designed to engage modern-day writers take inspiration from mythology, literature, science, current events, and self-reflection. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1877673528
• ISBN13: 9781877673528
• Release Date: February 2002
• Publisher: Cottonwood Press (Fort Collins, CO)
• Length: 99 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 7.0" x 7.0"

Customer Reviews

Tree inspired deeper writing

Reviewed by Kim Peterson for Reader Views (7/06) Our lifestyles are firmly rooted in our need for trees. We depend on them to produce oxygen. We cut their wood to construct houses and other structures. We consume their fruits and drink teas from their barks. We use hundreds of paper products every day derived from trees. We hang swings from their branches. We watch the birds flit through their leaves. We picnic in their shade. Even our music, art and literature are enriched by the images of trees. Writers will find "A New Leaf" appealing because this fresh approach to writing prompts resonates with our interdependence on trees. Six sections inspire writers to apply pen, pencil or computer to developing new material with depth. The book begins with the "Describing" section focusing the writer on observing trees and their parts. All writers know that watching then putting what we see into words is an aspect of our craft to be honed. The "Imagining" portion then urges writers to stretch beyond the observable. The "Reflecting" section uses terms associated with trees to push the writer into deeper thinking about his or her emotions. The "Responding" chapter features a collection of tree-related quotes. A question follows each, stimulating writers to interact with the thoughts of others. "Investigating" encourages acquiring new knowledge. Tactics include learning about unusual or famous trees, people who affect the welfare of trees, the impact of trees during different eras of history, and current environmental philosophies affecting trees. "Creating" invokes tree metaphors and uses story prompts to inspire the writer by pulling from mythology, stories and poems. These creative ideas initiate development of new written material that might be a departure from current projects. However, such exploration enriches the imagination. Appropriately, the book is printed on recycled paper and participates in the 100% Replanted program: [...]The ideas and illustrations induced peaceful reflection and further enjoyment of the aspen and sweet gum in my back yard. The writing prompts encouraged me to stretch beyond my usual creativity patterns while writing in the shade of my trees. "A New Leaf" makes a lovely gift book for aspiring and accomplished writers.