Notes from Myself: A Guide to Creative Journal Writing

by Anne Hazard Aldrich

Presents reasons why people hesitate to keep a diary, presents techniques and exercises for diarists, and describes notable journals

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing

160 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1997

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I mostly skimmed this one. Natalie Goldberg or Julia Cameron are way better to read if you really want help with the creative side of life. Or perhaps I read them first and this one just didn't have anything new to add. I did like the section where she talks about some famous people who have journaled. That was pretty interesting.

[Mackenzie Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started writing in a journal when I was like 26 years old. It was a difficult time in my life and my impulse was to write about it. I’ve written in my journal almost every day since then and I owe much of the positive direction my life has taken to my journal writing. This book was reinforced all of the benefits I already know about journal writing.

[Judy Van · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just ok. Better book by Cameron.

[Caylee Grey · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was recommended in another book, but I did not find anything useful in it.

DNF.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful little book. A fellow blogger I read ends each post with a thoughtful "writing prompt" on the topic and has mentioned a journal-writing course she will be teaching this fall. This inspired me to look for a book on the subject that might offer the same kind of "promptings." And I found one!

I can't say Ive ever really struggled with the idea of keeping a journal, but if you ever needed a little push to do so, this might be enough. She articulates all the reasons I write in my journal (and blog, I might add) that I haven't been able to clarify myself. And the book covers why to write, what to write, gives some writing exercises for when you feel stuck, and quotes from many famous (and maybe not famous, but published) journal/memoir/autobiography writers. Tons of quotable quotes and affirmations for why keeping a journal is beneficial! Loved it. :)

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is valuable for its ability to demonstrate the usefulness of journal writing. If you are not sure if journaling is worthwhile or if you are trying to get motivated to start a journal, Notes from Myself will be very helpful. You will also find value in this book if you are a veteran journaler who wants to reinvigorate your practice.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exercises, different types of journals, excerpts from journals of the famous and not so famous-- all provide plenty of food for thought for anyone interested in journal writing.

[Anne · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you're new to journaling, it's great. As someone who journaled for years and needs a way to get back into it and do so regularly, it wasn't as good of a resource.