Questions About Bird by Bird

by Anne Lamott (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (9)

Is this an instructional book on writing?

Laurelle From my perspective as a person trying to make writing part of my daily life, I'd say Bird by Bird is more of a pep talk/psychotherapy session for wri…moreFrom my perspective as a person trying to make writing part of my daily life, I'd say Bird by Bird is more of a pep talk/psychotherapy session for writers. Sitting home alone writing can be more than a little crazy-making, so it's nice to have some reassurance that the craziness is normal, along with some tools for getting to the next day.(less)

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Have you found this book worth your time?

Mekiah Johnson Yes, it's very helpful, and if you are a writer, and having a bit of a hard time, then this book will be perfect for you, although I don't know who yo…moreYes, it's very helpful, and if you are a writer, and having a bit of a hard time, then this book will be perfect for you, although I don't know who you are as a writer.
But, if you are not a writer, it is still very helpful. Like the other persons answer to your question, I agree, I think anyone can read this book. The writing advice can fit into real life also, so it's helpful both ways, in writing and in life, as the front cover depicts. (less)

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I just learned the author is into Jesus. Is there any Christianity preaching in the book? As an ex-Christian I am not interested and will be returning the book, if that is the case. Thanks.

Martynas Ma In General, - Yes and No. You will see a very humane, down to earth and sometimes even childish little girl behind the lines in this book. It's more a…moreIn General, - Yes and No. You will see a very humane, down to earth and sometimes even childish little girl behind the lines in this book. It's more about creativity and believing in magic than spirituality. As I am coming from strong sceptic/ science based background, this was also one of the questions I was raising before picking up the book. Author several times mentions her meetings of the preaching group or refers to god, but with a very soft touch and a pinch of humour. This book was recommended me by one of the journalists who said it was their must-read during the university studies. I am here just to double confirm that despite my atheistic views its worth taking your time. (less)

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Would you recommend this book to someone interested in improving their writing but whose focus is non-fiction and journalism?

Martynas Ma Yes, i have red this book based on strong recommendations from the journalist. Non fiction writing also consists of storytelling.

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Something I'm experiencing since finishing a book is what to do with all the ideas on the topic that keep coming. I was constantly capturing them jotting them down and writing them up later. They keep coming now! I suppose blogging is a good option, but I enjoyed compiling them all into one organized piece. Any thoughts? Save them for a later project, share them now on social media, all of the above?

Mekiah Johnson I'm not sure what you would like to do.
But, with me for example, I would vaguely, as a tease, post a little bit on social media, but not too much.
I …moreI'm not sure what you would like to do.
But, with me for example, I would vaguely, as a tease, post a little bit on social media, but not too much.
I am one of those people who like to keep people waiting.
I think it's a good marketing strategy if you are ever teasing a book, be vague is my best advice, but not too much.
But another warning for this.
Don't use this strategy religiously, otherwise you'll become known for being vague and people will know exactly what you are doing.
This is exactly why you switch it up sometimes. Give them a snippet of the first paragraph of your idea, or give them a whole page.
Don't let them pigeonhole you will a specific expectation, try to fool them the best you can, that way they won't know what to expect.
I am mostly saying this as marketing advice, but also as a thing for fun.
I would also say, if most of these ideas you can imagine as something full-length, maybe share it, but not if it'll make you lost interest.
It's okay to just share an idea with people, do whatever you like, but like I said, some people lost interest drastically if they share their ideas with others.
I hope this answer helped. This is most just my opinion and experience.
Good luck with your book and God bless! :)
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