Customer Reviews

For the Write Reason: 31 Writers, Agents and Editors Share Their Experiences with Christian Publishing

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

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

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!!!

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

For the Write Reason was written with the intention of reading one profile each day from the 31 writers, agents, and editors who share valuable insights on writing and publishing. Along with the 31 profiles, Marybeth wrote 31 Bible studies to inspire and challenge writers. I didn't have the patience to wait 31 days. I read the profiles and Bible studies just like other books I am anxious to glean guidance and inspiration from--as quickly as possible. While I read it, I made liberal use of my yellow highlighter. Now I have pages of inspiring quotes copied over into a notebook.

Even if your only intention in writing is to write for your family, you will find much to inspire you here as you strive to reach your writing goals. Here are just a few of the many quotes I am keeping close to my heart:

"Everything that touches your life passes through God's hands, with His permission and for a reason. Writing is simply the record of God at work in your life, shared through your eyes and with your heart." Mary Southerland

"After the clouds clear and we have withstood the storm, we must `turn back and strengthen our brothers.' Marybeth Whalen - and - "May we turn back to strengthen our sisters by telling our stories of God's faithfulness."

"Leave a legacy with your words so that generations to come will know the great things He hath done." Marybeth Whalen

For the Write Reason is easy to read in small segments of time. The profiles average two to three pages in length. The Bible studies one page each.

I think this book would be really good to someone who has never written and been published, even in newspapers, whatsoever. It is very elementary. I was hoping for more details from the writers, agents and editors, more specific steps to take, rather than their writing/publishing journeys. They were nice to read but not real useful to me as a writer.

That being said, if someone is a very young writer, who has no idea where to start, or who doesn't even know if God is calling them to write (though He probably is if you really have to write, if you love to write and need to write).

Thank you Marybeth for this excellent tool! Hearing all of the different experiences was not only inspiring but educational. I will recommend this to many!

This book is truly an inspiration to use our gifts, particularly that of writing, and gives moving words of wisdom to help uncover the daunting path of publishing. With each chapter being only a page or two, the busiest of mommies or professionals has time to squeeze this treasure in.

"For the Write Reason" is a rich compilation of personal stories and tips from published Christian authors, editors, and others in the publishing field, written directly to those coming up behind them. It answers a lot of common questions and keeps the Christian author focused on the reasons we are called to write through a 31-day bible study. It's always comforting to get the perspective of someone who's been there; this book is no exception!

I aquired this book by reading another book. I really got this book because I was curious. I am estactic that I did. There are so many good tips from other writers in this book, that I have altered my style to what I think is a much better approach. I will be going back to this book many times to reread the information to refresh my writing.