How to Enjoy Writing: A Book of Aid and Comfort

by Janet Asimov and Isaac Asimov

Book Overview

This book was written by my personal favorite author, Isaac Asimov and his wife, Janet. It purports to offer aid and comfort to the aspiring author, but in fact does neither. This is a loving... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0802773036
• ISBN13: 9780802773036
• Release Date: January 1987
• Publisher: Walker & Company
• Length: 163 Pages
• Weight: 0.54 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.5" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

Jump Start Your Imagination

The Asimovs created this little volume to show those struggling with writing that it is possible to enjoy and love the process even if you are a gregarious social who has trouble listening to the silence. Writing is a solitary occupation and silence is a criteria for letting your mind wander while your fingers operate. HOW TO ENJOY WRITING covers all the basics from staying fit with good nutrition to feeding your mind while you isolate yourself. I love this line from p. 50, "Life is a journey, but don't worry, you'll find a parking place at the end." The cartoons by Sidney Harris are both delightful and enlightening. An older volume to read in spurts and digest at your leisure. Writing as a Small BusinessQualifying Laps: A Brewster County NovelSins of the Fathers: A Brewster County Novel

It spoke to me!

I came across this book on the shelves of a hotel room where I went on a personal writing retreat. The title spoke to me first - how to enjoy writing, not fret, worry, sweat, etc. etc. It was full of camaraderie and inspiration. I learned a lot, and came home and ordered three used copies for myself and friends. My attitude is, every book about writing by a successful writer should have at least a few tidbits. This one has that and more. I'm inspired not only by the Asimov's concrete suggestions -practical and useful - but by their anecdotes, that facing the enjoyment AND anxieties of writing and submittingi (and yes, getting rejections), they write, write, write. Try this book, small risk, possible big gains.

Good Inspiration and Reading List

It is not a writing manual and I do not think it was intended as one. All I can say is that it has always inspired me. If nothing else, the appendix listing Isaac Asimov's choice of the best writers to read and reread may be worth the cost of a used copy. There are not many writers of recent vintage on that list.