Who knew reading about writing could be so enjoyable?

One of the aspects that distinguishes Anne Lamott's classic writing guide, Bird by Bird, from other books on the subject is the honest, down-to-earth, and humorous way in which she communicates both the joys and frustrations of the writing life. I truly appreciate how Lamott recounts her experiences with such raw authenticity and self-deprecating humor, while simultaneously relaying valuable advice that is both relevant and practical.

Another thing I love about this book is that Lamott's writing is highly accessible. She doesn't use flowery, abstract language or engage in philosophical musings about the writing process in a way that makes it seem like she is talking down to us. Instead, it feels like a conversation between friends, sharing writing advice and telling funny stories about various writing experiences.

Those who have followed my reviews for a while probably know that I've finally embarked on the novel writing project that I've been postponing for years. As part of my "homework" for this project, I've been attempting to read as many books on writing as possible, ranging from writing manuals to memoirs and everything in between. Many of the books on the subject are relatively straightforward, and while I usually end up with a few pages of notes, much of the content is largely repetitive, with very little that I feel I can actually apply to my own writing process. Reading Lamott's book was a completely different experience for me. Not only did I take numerous pages of notes, but I also found a great deal of the advice to be highly applicable.

For example, I've been able to apply Lamott's advice when it comes to dealing with the overwhelming feeling that often strikes me when I sit down to write. Each time I face this, I remind myself to "just take it bird by bird" (for me, that means scene by scene) and use her short assignment method of focusing on writing out one scene at a time.

Another example is how Lamott's thoughts on perfectionism have resonated with me. I'm a perfectionist when it comes to my own writing, and it can be a draining process. Lamott's advice about not being too hard on ourselves and allowing ourselves to make mistakes and leave messes has been extremely helpful.

After reading this book, I understand why it is on almost every recommended list as a "must-read" for writers. It is truly an indispensable read for writers of all levels, a sort of writing bible. More importantly, it is a book that I plan to re-read whenever I feel discouraged or uninspired in my writing. It's definitely a wonderful addition to every writer's bookshelf!

"Wonderful book". I read it a while back when I took a class. (I still own it -- and look through it often). The book had a profound impact on me. It was truly a source of inspiration.

I was inspired once again when I saw my Goodreads friend here reading it! It made me realize the lasting value of this book. It seems to have a special charm that attracts readers time and time again.

NOTE: I still never want to 'write' (as in seriously) --- but I feel 'free' to express myself. Anne Lamott's book is filled with wisdom. Her words have a way of touching the heart and making you think. It's not just a book; it's a companion on the journey of self-discovery. I'm glad I have it in my collection and will continue to cherish it.

Books are of utmost importance, ranking almost as high as anything else on this earth.

It is truly a miracle that from these small, flat, and rigid squares of paper, one world after another unfolds before our eyes. These worlds have the power to sing to us, offer comfort and quiet, or even excite us.

Books play a crucial role in helping us understand our true selves and how we should conduct ourselves. They vividly illustrate what community and friendship truly mean and guide us on how to live a fulfilling life and face death with courage.

This particular book is one of my all-time favorites. Admittedly, it is a bit outdated, as can be seen from some of the jokes and pop culture references within its pages.

However, despite this, it remains an incredibly informative book that has been instrumental in my journey to becoming a full-time writer.

Without the knowledge and inspiration I gained from it, I would most certainly not be in the position I am in today.

Overall, I would rate this book four stars.

Keep this on the QT, but I've always had a secret dream of being a writer. The book "Bird by Bird" makes writing seem both delightfully horrible, and that's why I've read it countless times. It's rather peculiar that although I've read this book on writing half a dozen times, I've never actually written a review of it.

Yesterday, I listened to all six hours and six minutes of this book. It served as a powerful reminder of just how much I truly want to write. And it's not because I'm solely focused on getting published. Instead, I have a deep desire to sort things out through the act of writing. Writing allows me to organize my thoughts, make sense of my experiences, and express myself in a way that I can't always do verbally.

As I listened to the book, I was inspired by the author's insights and practical advice. It made me realize that writing is a process, and it's okay to make mistakes and take things one step at a time. I'm looking forward to applying what I've learned from "Bird by Bird" and taking my writing to the next level.

A beloved modern classic, this work is truly well-deserving of its 25th anniversary edition. It is part writing advice and part memoir, with the memoir aspect taking the lead. The content is absolutely hilarious at times, yet also depressing. While some of it may seem outdated, the incredible quality of the writing is timeless. I lost count of the number of times a magical phrase or a perfect choice of word just smacked me on the forehead. There were many moments when I laughed out loud, and a couple of times when I even shed a tear.

It is geared towards those writing literary fiction and short non-fiction, but it is well worth reading for writers of any stripe. However, the portrayal of the writing life as a constant battle with negative internal voices, self-loathing, other-loathing, jealousy, and despair can be a disservice to many struggling writers. It seems to romanticize suffering and mental illness as a necessary part of producing art. Recently, I came across discussions that counter this mindset, prioritizing mental wellness over the idea that suffering is necessary for creativity. Reading Lamott's experience, I can't help but conclude that her therapist must be making money hand over fist, as every moment in her writing life is fraught with wild emotional dips. We should heed her instructions on writing, but perhaps not so much her modelling of reactions to life.

Written in 1994, some of her advice has been eclipsed by technology. The existence of the internet has made it unnecessary to "call around" to learn the details of unfamiliar topics. Smartphones have replaced the need to carry around index cards to jot down stray thoughts that could be writing fodder. Although, there is still something to be said for the durability and emotional resonance of the analog approach. Also, she has nothing to say about self-publishing because at the time it was mainly limited to vanity projects.

Confession: I truly, deeply, and passionately love non-fiction!!!!

Reading a great non-fiction work is an absolute delight. It's as if I'm sitting on my cozy couch, engaging in the most incredible conversation with the smartest, funniest, and wittiest person around. It's like being at an adult sleepover, sipping hot chocolate and staying awake past 5 am, with the excitement and action-packed nature rivaling that of a thrilling fantasy novel (at least for me).

There's something unbelievably refreshing about delving into a book written by someone who has something truly meaningful to convey. It's similar to watching an awe-inspiring documentary on a subject that captivates you. (If you're as nerdy as I am, that is.)

I grew up watching Animal Planet with my father, and he nurtured in me a love for dinosaurs, the ocean, the jungle, and space. Because of this, whenever someone has something interesting to say about a subject I care about, I'm all ears. It feels just like sitting there and reliving those wonderful moments of watching those Animal Planet documentaries all over again.

Imagine getting me to a dinner table with someone who is just as talkative as I am and is willing to share all about the seven years they spent studying alien theories. Watch me sit there throughout the night, completely engrossed. I might even get kicked out of the restaurant because they closed an hour ago, everyone is tired, they have families to return to, and they couldn't care less about the forgotten bill on the table.

If you've never read non-fiction, I guess this is what it feels like. You can have a conversation with someone, about any subject under the sun. Literally, just go to a library right now and pick a subject. Anything you were ever remotely curious about, and there will be someone - smarter than you, who probably studied it extensively throughout their lives - who has written a book about it. Anything at all!!!! And they will most likely be funny, charming, witty, and nerdy. It's like having a pocket friend!!!

You learn an abundance of knowledge, you're in the company of amazing ideas and perspectives, you feel less alone in your interests, and in fact, you become a better person because of it.

Here's to non-fiction, the source of endless inspiration and learning!

Bird by Bird is a unique blend of writing instruction, memoir, and personal musings that makes Anne Lamott a friend to readers. She is humble, genuine, and humorous, and her book provides a sense of comfort. However, those seeking a straightforward guide to writing a compelling story and getting published may need to look elsewhere. Lamott devotes a significant amount of time to discussing her son, friends, childhood, and feelings of inadequacy as a writer. Her conversational writing style is pleasant, but her tendency to ramble prevents the book from being truly addictive.

Nevertheless, the writing advice Lamott offers is outstanding. Despite achieving great success as an author, she has never forgotten what it's like to be a struggling writer or someone who dreams of becoming one. Her advice is practical and actionable. Some aspiring writers thrive on strict writing rules, such as setting a schedule, writing a specific number of words each day, and creating an outline with a story arc. But Lamott doesn't adhere to these, and her alternative "rules" make sense. Rigidity is likely not helpful for most beginning writers, who may feel overwhelmed just trying to start. Lamott emphasizes getting words, any words, on paper. She talks about "shitty first drafts" (because all writers have them), "short assignments" (which reduces the intimidation of getting started), and starting by writing about one's life, as if recording it only for one's offspring or other relatives. The beginnings of a novel can emerge from these.

Lamott does discuss the more practical aspects like writing regularly, finding an agent, and avoiding libel. But what sets this book apart from traditional writing guides is that these were not her only focus. She wants aspiring writers to feel understood and speaks to them in an emotional way. She encourages them to place real emotion at the center of their work, write towards vulnerability, and not worry about being sentimental. She emphasizes the importance of telling the truth as they understand it. By the end of the book, readers will feel that they truly can write something publishable. Lamott's empathy and authenticity infuse Bird by Bird with warmth. It is a feel-good, empowering how-to book by someone who truly cares.

I'm extremely pleased to announce that, as per Anne Lamott's teachings, I've seemingly got this writing business down pat.

After sending a manuscript off to an editor, there are those swirling anxieties that consume me. After writing a draft, self-doubt creeps in. And there's always that curiosity about how every other author is faring in their writing endeavors.

I religiously carry notecards and a pen around at all times. This is because, just as Anne Lamott said, I often forget those amazing, unforgettable ideas that pop into my head while I'm walking the dog. I truly feel like I'm rocking this writing thing!

And, hopefully, in the midst of all this, I'm able to write something that is both interesting and honest.

This book by Anne Lamott might just be my absolute favorite on the subject of writing. It has provided me with so much inspiration and guidance, and I'm excited to see where my writing journey takes me from here.

When I read this book, my enthusiasm for reading was lower than ever before. However, every time I looked at its sentences, it encouraged me to read and write. The text was simple and resembled a conversation with the author. Except for some parts where there was a bit of repetition, the other solutions were useful and truly impactful.

Moreover, the book's content was presented in a way that was easy to understand, which made it accessible to a wide range of readers. It covered various topics and provided valuable insights and practical tips. I found myself constantly engaged and eager to learn more.

In conclusion, although my initial interest in reading was not high, this book managed to capture my attention and reignite my passion for it. It is a great read for anyone looking for inspiration and practical advice on reading and writing.

If you are a writer, have the aspiration of becoming a writer, hold a pen in your hand, or simply love writing:

This book can be like a friend, a companion, or even a partner to your pain-ridden and sorrowful heart. When you sit down to write and not a single word comes to your mind, when you read the first draft and your mood plummets, when you over-edit the characters and a disastrous result emerges from your work, all you need to do is turn to "Bird by Bird". That Lamott reaches out from between the pages of the book and says to you: "Hey friend, even the worst writers in the world write like this." Then she brings you several examples of her writing class and offers you several solutions. If these solutions don't work for you, at least your mood will improve a little. So whenever you write (a book, an article, a review, even a book introduction, etc.), this book will definitely make you feel better and perhaps even be a guide.

If you are just a reader, a consumer of everything that is written:

Reading this book will definitely change the quality of your reading. When you know what adventures and hardships lie behind each of these words being put together, when you understand that just like any other job, sweat and tears are shed to write, when you feel the author's emotions after reading the negative reviews, you will no longer read like before. You will have more respect for the words. You will not throw the book away, tear it up, or set it on fire. When you read a beautiful story, you will say in your heart: "I wonder how many times this has been rewritten from the beginning to get to this point?" And through the lines, you will see the author with a pen in hand or behind a monitor, typing on the keyboard, sharing his or her world view with you.

P.S: Definitely one of the most fascinating parts of the book for me was Lamott's experiences from the stage of book publication. A stage that is like a rite of passage for every writer or translator. The things that Lamott describes about this stage with such cruelty are touching and necessary for anyone who writes and translates. The reality that she reveals. The bitter truth that comes to the surface.

As the author's ten-year-old brother was seated at the kitchen table on the final day of the summer holidays, he was grappling with the seemingly insurmountable task of commencing a project on birds that he had had the entire summer to work on. At that moment, their father came and sat down beside him, gently putting his arm around his son.

"Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird."

This is truly a magnificent piece of advice, not only for writing but for life in general. Lamott's book is replete with generous anecdotes and keen observations regarding the writing process. It is a book that is equally beneficial for readers as it is for those who tend to procrastinate when it comes to getting their words down on paper.

It offers valuable insights and practical tips that can inspire and guide both novice and experienced writers alike. Whether you are struggling with writer's block or simply looking for ways to improve your writing skills, Lamott's words are sure to resonate and provide the motivation you need to take that first step and keep going, one bird at a time.

This book presented an engaging perspective on both life and the art of writing fiction.

However, it felt as if she was merely preaching to those who already shared her views. It didn't truly expose me to anything unexpected or that I didn't already know.

I firmly believe that jealousy is the most unattractive human emotion. While I give her credit for openly admitting her shortcomings, during this chapter, I seriously considered closing the book.

Thankfully, I persevered because, despite that, the writing advice was decent and well-structured. It couldn't harm beginners at all.

Lamott comes across as the type of person who talks a great deal, perhaps even too much. She appears rather self-satisfied with her writing and attempts to pass it off as humility. I'm not buying it, unfortunately.

In fact, I'm almost inclined to say that revealing all her secrets might have been a misstep. I'm not overly fond of her self-proclaimed sense of humor either.

Nevertheless, I do admire her boldness in teaching what she knows best.