Customer Reviews

Seven Steps on the Writer's Path: The Journey from Frustration to Fulfillment

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When I started reading Seven Steps on the Writer's Path, I didn't think I would finish it without writing a book of my own. I'm working on a book now. And I looked at a book that I had already written and understood why I would never publish it. It was a first draft, full of good ideas but not ready for publication. After reading Seven Steps on the Writer's Path, I now know where I am in the creative process of writing and what is necessary to get to the next step. I feel empowered about writing rather than burdened by excuses. And I've found that the steps apply not only to writing, but to many other aspects of my life as well, such as exercising and managing projects. I hope you, too, enjoy this novel; it will take you on a wonderful journey of self-exploration and discovery. Whether or not you become a writer, your life will be more passionate and fulfilling. If you already are a writer, this book will help you learn a lot about yourself and the writing process.

Experienced authors Lynn Lott and Nancy Picard will offer you creative solutions to common problems writers face, such as writer's block, procrastination, frustration, and rejection. Lynn and Nancy will help you clear your mind of the cobwebs of excuses that have stood in the way of your writing, and "empty the old, dead detritus of your life in order to make room for the fresh and new." You will become comfortable with the cycle of the Seven Steps (Unhappiness, Wanting, Commitment, Wavering, Letting Go, Immersion, and Fulfillment), identifying which step you are on and choosing your own Writer's Path. You will know when "you are walking someone else's path instead of your own." You will put your writing first, "learning as you go," "tackling your to do list later," and "ridding yourself of the perpetual self doubt machine of comparison." And, you may very well write that book you have been dreaming about. (Note: All quotations are taken from Seven Steps on the Writer's Path.)

A joyous workbook, interspersed with many quotations from successfully published authors -- celebrities & novices alike. It is for every professional writer who comes upon the inevitable obstacles inherent in this most solitary of crafts -- unhappiness, wanting, commitment & so forth.

I now have an understanding of the phases I've been going through while working on my writing. Rather than bossing us about, or admonishing us to get hold of our bootstraps & tough it out, these authors show us that the process of writing is both organic & chartable (& charitable to boot!). I can now recognize the detours in creativity.

I especially relish both voices & their vivacity. The stories of the process are fascinating. The tools offered usable. The encouragement tangible. As I write in solitude, I now know I am not alone.

If you know a writer, RebeccasReads recommends you give them a copy of the SEVEN STEPS ON THE WRITER'S PATH, & be daily blessed!

I've been buying books about writing lately, as it has been my lifelong dream to write a fantasy story. "Seven Steps on the Writer's Path" is the third title I read on the subject. Perhaps I'm looking at it the wrong way, but this book doesn't really provide much writing advice.

I was looking for some more practical recommendations, like the information provided in the excellent Stein On Writing book I read before. Instead, "Seven Steps on the Writer's Path" mostly talks about how unhappy you can be while "on the writer's part" and how to deal with those feelings. In all fairness, there are some writing tips, and some pretty interesting quotes in the margins, but if you're looking for some clear, specific writing advice, this isn't it.

Confessions of a Pastor's Wife: He Speaks, Can You Hear Him?
As I began my writing and found myself in those awkward places of wanting to write yet nothing would come except the frustration of nothing coming! Which then promotes the negative self talk that can role around in one's head and keep one from stepping fully into our God-given dreams. This book, The Seven Steps on the Writers Path truly kept me going, while giving me complete understanding of where I was on the path and WHY certain things were going on. With that understanding came grace and patience with myself as I wrote. Another thing that understanding brought was this amazing flow of writing that would pour out of me! Understanding the process enables the process! You will enjoy this book, especially if you are in "the process" of writing.

I kept this book by my side the entire time I was writing my book and after now being a publshed author I felt the need to write this review out of gratitude. I highly recommend this book! It holds a special place in my heart. As an author and a life coach I have several clients who are in the process of writing books and I ALWAYS ALWAYS recommend this book to them. Pick it up- it will propel you down the path!

Blessings in all of your writing endeavors,
Kathryn Bonner - Author of "Confessions of a Pastor's Wife; He Speaks Can You Hear Him?"

This book falls into that trap of inspiriational titles- about 1/3 through you start skimming for the quotations by famous artists and thinkers. Why? Because the authors say absolutely nothing new about the creative process. In fact, they don't even seem to try.

The tone is that of a kindergarden teacher: warmly encouraging bordering on patronizing.

The book tried for a structure (7 steps, duh) but each chapter sounded just like the preceding one. Apparently, writing is a frustrating process. But then it gets more frustrating. And then, did we mention, it becomes frustrating.

I will say that it was an easy read and if you really are so desperate for encouragement as to spend time reading self-help books instead of actually writing, then I suppose this will be the hot cocoa with marshmallows that we all need occasionally.

However, for anyone looking for insight or raw inspiration, this will be one big bore.