11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Offers something for almost every writer, especially the beginner, December 20, 2005
This review is from: For the Write Reason: 31 Writers, Agents and Editors Share Their Experiences with Christian Publishing (Paperback)
If you have wanted to write but been afraid to try, you should read For the Write Reason, edited by Marybeth Whalen. The book contains thirty-one accounts, some in the first person and others in the third, of how Christians have become writers. Some have always wanted to write; others never wanted to write but found it strengthened their ministry. The people profiled include Rebecca Barlow Jordan, Mary DeMuth, Mary Southerland, Sharon Jaynes, Athena Deane, Thelma Wells, Kendra Smiley, Denny Boultinghouse, Rachel Scott, and Sally E. Stuart--a name familiar to most Christian writers.
Not only do they tell their stories, but many include tips on getting published or writing better, making this a valuable book for writers who are already published. They also share a vision on the importance of spiritual priorities, such as the family, service, and humility.
Each short chapter includes follow-up information on the author, editor, or agent, along with a devotional and a writing challenge. The devotionals deal with obedience, jealousy, priorities, and other subjects as they affect our writing. Most are thought provoking, some encouraging, others convicting. The writing challenges supplement the devotionals and would not take large amounts of time.
Whalen includes helpful appendices on writing a book proposal and bio sheet, marketing your writing, and useful writing resources.
Writing styles vary with the writer, but most are warm, encouraging, and friendly. I highly recommend For the Write Reason, which offers something for almost every writer, especially the beginner. -- Debbie W. Wilson, Christian Book Previews.com
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Revived!, August 3, 2005
This review is from: For the Write Reason: 31 Writers, Agents and Editors Share Their Experiences with Christian Publishing (Paperback)
I was ready to give up writing even though I knew God had called me to write. I began to doubt and think I had misunderstood. I saw this book and devoured it. A lot of the stories were the same as mine. Women called to write, publishers' rejections, discouragemnent, etc. Lisa Terkel and I have even uttered the same words, "God You are my agent." I have put books on the shelf, waiting for them to be picked up. I have once again put pen to paper because of the uplifting, encouraging words in this book. I realize, God has called me to write, I am not alone in my venture and seemingly dead-end. In His time, He will have my works published to help those who need it. This book was the tonic that revived my defeated heart, soul and dreams!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Encouragement for Christian Writers, April 22, 2006
This review is from: For the Write Reason: 31 Writers, Agents and Editors Share Their Experiences with Christian Publishing (Paperback)
The women of Proverbs 31 Ministries have produced a book that is a wonderful encouragement for writers. It is an easy read, with stories and insights shared from those who know what it is to stare at a blank screen or page and long to see their words in print. At the end of each segment is a simple Bible study that helps you write "For the Write Reason", keeping you focused on the inspiration and purpose we write.
My favorite segment: From Darkness to Dreams by Mary Southerland. Mary is a speaker and teacher who, like many of us, uses journaling to cope with depression. Her journals led to a book, Coming Out of the Dark. She shares lessons and good advice... and a brief story about not giving up from the publisher who turned down Veggie Tales!
This book is inspiration and encouragement - not a text on how to... but fuel for the soul of the writer who truly wants to write for the right reason.
Lisa Van Allen, PhD
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
