The Essential Writer's Notebook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Writing (Journal, Diary) (Guided Journals) [Spiral-bound]

Natalie Goldberg (Author)

Book Description

Series: Guided Journals | Publication Date: July 1, 2001

Written and illustrated by Natalie Goldberg, who teaches writing in workshops nationwide. She is the best-selling author of several books on writing: ''Writing Down the Bones,'' ''Wild Mind,'' and ''Thunder and Lightning.'' This beautiful notebook, illustrated by the author's own paintings, provides the perfect opportunity for would-be writers, as well as those seeking a fresh approach to their work, to learn simple techniques that will help them master the basics of the craft. Inspired by the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, the book provides a complete step-by-step mini-course on how to write clearly and powerfully. Abundant lined pages can be used for writing practice. Concealed wire-o binding lies flat. 160 lined pages; hardcover; 6-1/4'' wide x 8-1/4'' high.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Natalie Goldberg teaches writing in workshops nationwide. She is the best-selling author of several books on writing including Writing Down the Bones, Wild Mind, and Thunder and Lightning.

Product Details

• Spiral-bound: 160 pages
• Publisher: Peter Pauper Press (July 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0880882433
• ISBN-13: 978-0880882439
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 6.1 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 2.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #849,936 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

49 of 55 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A fun and colorful new writing journal, July 24, 2001

By 

Paula Hagar (Denver, CO United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Essential Writer's Notebook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Writing (Journal, Diary) (Guided Journals) (Spiral-bound)

I bought this writing journal 3 days ago at the Mabel Dodge Luhan House, just hours before attending a one-day Natalie Goldberg writing workshop. The instant I saw this journal I knew I had to have it. It is colorful and inspirational, with many of my favorite quotes from "Writing Down the Bones" and "Wild Mind" included throughout the book, as well as some basic prompts at the top of certain pages. Every 5-6 pages there is a full color page of Natalie's brilliant paintings, which have inspired me to be more colorful in my own writing. Inside the front and back covers are lightly inscribed "Keep the pen moving" phrases. The journal, about 5x7", is the perfect size to keep inside a purse, is spiral-bound with light lines throughout, and with its inspirational writing messages scattered throughout, the journal just begs to have a fast-moving pen fill its pages. Any Natalie Goldberg fan is guaranteed to love this new journal. I do.

39 of 43 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Misleading title, January 4, 2002

By 

TheCafeWriter (Chicago, IL USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: The Essential Writer's Notebook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Writing (Journal, Diary) (Guided Journals) (Spiral-bound)

Those who are familiar with Natalie Goldberg's other books will be disappointed. This is basically like any other blank journal, with colorful pages, some quotes, and the very occasional writing prompt. For the same money, you can get a simple notebook and one of Natalie's other - and considerably more substantial - works.

30 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Excellent Notebook, April 27, 2002

By 

Barry K. Silverman (East Brunswick, NJ USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Essential Writer's Notebook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Writing (Journal, Diary) (Guided Journals) (Spiral-bound)

I found this to be an excellent notebook. Keep in mind that this is essentially a workbook, not a text on writing. If you are looking for a beautiful place to put your thoughts , this is for you. Quotes from the author are scattered thoughout the book to prompt your inner voice. I like this book so much, that I'm going to buy another copy when I fill the first one.

The lush artwork of Ms. Goldberg is itself worth the price of the book:)