I only read these books when I'm procrastinating--like when I have a big lecture to give in a week, and a reading to stage, and a month-long trip to plan for. Because I should be preparing for all the aforementioned things, I picked up For Writers Only.

Judging from the title, I felt as though there would be something exclusive and secretive, some writing practice or technique that would challenge me, maybe even inspire me, as a writer. But, it began with a contradiction [direct quote:]: "For Writers Only isn't only for writers: it applies as much to a carpenter..."

I'm sorry, why did you title it "For Writers Only" then?

This book went on to irritate me to no end (and no, I didn't finish it). It was a bunch of quotes, bookended with the author's dismal interpretations of said quotes. Her basic thesis, as far as I can tell, is that writing is depressing and hard, but we should all do it anyway--even if we're not writers at all. And I still don't know what that has to do with a carpenter, except for maybe the numerous mentions of Jesus and some loose religious connection--but if so it's not a clear argument.

If I ever write a How-To book, it will be the polar opposite. Here's an overview: Writing is easy, revision is tough, titles are important, and there are far too many writers, far too few of them read. The End.

OK--so I'm better at reviewing the ones I like...