Welcome to the Writer's Life

July 2, 2018
Writers looking for encouragement, specifics, and some memorable advice would do well to pick up this good-humored and highly useful guide from Perhach, a contributor to Elle and Cosmopolitan. While sharing professional successes and challenges, Perhach starts with the basics: finding enough time to write, setting goals, and overcoming insecurities. Along with advice on these matters, Perhach offers nuggets of inspiration (“How hard you work outweighs how much talent you have”) as well as inspirational maxims from other writers, including Stephen King and E.L. Doctorow. Try writing in different genres, Perhach encourages, while also “taking risks” and “reading the best of the best.” And for readers who have never seriously studied writing as a craft, Perhach gives an introduction to the mechanics of storytelling, and lists 12 books to use as follow-up. Lighthearted graphics illustrate points throughout the book, as do simple assignments. Perhach wraps up by examining writing as a business, discussing lifestyle choices, professional role models, and “how to network non-creepily.” This funny, readable, and idea-crammed book is a powerful tool for writers, no matter where they are in their journeys.

Starred review from August 1, 2018

Perhach (Freshman Year of Life) mines her personal and professional experience--and how they feed each other--to create a kind of freshman orientation for writers. According to the author, neophytes are apprehensive about two things: where to start, and how, therefore, priming readers on how to give oneself permission to write, to fail, to fail better, and to learn through the process. What differentiates Perhach's book from others is its conversational tone, warmth, and presenting elements necessary to success without presuming readers already know the basics. Also touched upon are concepts of self-care and that it's okay to write, "I don't know what to say," than nothing at all. She further maintains a dedicated website that covers the book, updating as required. Running commentaries from a range of creatives are an inspiring bonus. VERDICT This compendious exploration--and tactical workbook--of the writer's path, replete with tried-and-true exercises and behind-the-scenes tips, provides a tremendous asset for aspirants or anyone simply curious about writers, their work, and the challenge of keeping body and spirit together.--William Grabowski, McMechen, WV

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