From Publishers Weekly
Based on the intriguing idea that writers pass through a sequence of seven identifiable stages when composing, this volume is a rewarding combination of motivational tool and writer's guide. Lott, a writer/therapist, and Pickard, author of the Jenny Cain mysteries, commiserate with readers as they detail the points on the path to completing any serious writing project. The steps, which they contend are common to all writers, begin at Unhappiness, then proceed to Wanting, Commitment, Wavering, Letting Go, Immersion and, finally, Fulfillment. Each phase gets its own chapter of explanation, advice and inspiring quotations. Particularly strong are the chapters covering seemingly negative steps, such as Wanting, which the authors describe as an "attractive power" that, like a magnet, draws to it "the things or people it needs in order to be fulfilled." At times, the self-help jargon, derived from the I Ching and other sources, can be too simplistic (i.e. "You can't feel the flow until you let go"), and readers may also tire of the authors' many references to their own lives. Overall, though, this is a fair representation of the artist's process that serves the important purpose of validating all the emotional stages of writing as normal-a valuable companion book for writers at any stage in their careers.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Review
“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED . . . SEVEN STEPS is a terrific writer’s guide with practical advice and great wisdom for both the novice and veteran.”
—Harlan Coben
Author of
No Second Chance
“I can give you seven reasons to buy this book for every writer you know. It’s fresh, insightful, candid, funny, supportive, encouraging, and wise.”
—SUE GRAFTON
“I WISH I’D HAD THIS BOOK TWENTY YEARS AGO! Pickard and Lott illuminate every writer’s essential challenge—the creative process, the evolution from idea to finished product. An absolute must for anyone who writes.”
—T. J. MACGREGOR
Edgar Award–winning author of
Out of Sight
“Every writer gets lost from time to time on the creative journey, and when that happens, it’s nice to encounter a friendly and helpful companion like
Seven Steps on the Writer’s Path. Nancy Pickard and Lynn Lott light the path and guide us out of the darkness one step at a time.”
—ROB MACGREGOR
Edgar Award–winning author of
Prophecy Rock
“This book made me want to walk straight to the computer and start writing.”
—ELAINE VIETS
Author of
Shop Till You Drop: A Dead-End Job Mystery
“
Seven Steps on the Writer’s Path is a must-read, must-absorb, must-follow for anyone who has ever even dreamed of becoming a writer. Nancy Pickard and Lynn Lott brilliantly define the joys and jolts all of us encounter on the tortuous road to publication and beyond, along with excellent practical tips for how-to stay the daunting, difficult course and make those writing dreams a reality.”
—JUDITH KELMAN
Author of
Every Step You Take“
Seven Steps offers much good advice, both practical and motivational, that’s been time- and career-tested. This would be a pleasing companion as you embark on a book project in any genre.”
—SUSAN K. PERRY
Author of
Writing in Flow: Keys to Enhanced Creativity
“With this enlightening book for writers, we find two authors who not only understand the truth about the writer’s life, but also communicate it with flat out honesty, a dose of impishness, and always an abundance of heart.”
—GAIL PROVOST STOCKWELL
Cofounder, Write It/Sell It Seminars and
Workshops, and Writers Retreat Workshop
