Customer Reviews

Writers in the Spirit: Inspiration for Christian Writers

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

 

 

WRITERS IN THE SPIRIT is a well-organized tool to both inspire and educate aspiring writers of all skill levels. Author Carol J. Rottman, Ph. D. has developed this book to encourage and teach Christian writers how to find the fullness of experience through our spiritual selves and translate that into words through all types of writing.

Rottman encourages writers to embrace life, learn from it, immerse themselves in it and then share that life through words put to paper.

Eleven chapters are divided into essays that further explore each facet of a writer's life, both physical and spiritual; a writer's prayer and tips, hints and advice; followed by a writing challenge.

WRITERS IN THE SPIRIT acts as a guide for the journey writers must take to fully realize their talent. Rottman has shined a light on the Christian writer's path and that light can illuminate the works of art inside us all

Throughout this unique book for writers are in-depth explorations of topics such as opening up God's incarnational spirit, taking nourishment from God to provide fruit that will outlive the writer, and writing with fervor to overcome our self-imposed limits.

Rottman doesn't stop there, though. She shares her personal experience of applying each concept to her life and illustrates how it then translates into discovery of one's self, which can then better express the words residing within us.

Searching for the meaning of our lives through writing is addressed with a reminder to return to the Bible and explore famous writing incidents such as the handwriting on the wall and the creation of the Ten Commandments. As we ponder the inspiration of the storytellers who recorded the biblical events, how then do we open ourselves to that same inspiration?

WRITERS IN THE SPIRIT is not a book to be read once then set aside to gather dust. Instead, it is a book to be digested, pondered and treasured for the long journey.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and I find myself returning to different sections as I come upon a challenge in my own writings.

This book is a much needed new angle on writing. Instead of a mechanical guide to the elements of writing, Christian author Carol J. Rottman offers hope and inspiration to writers.

This is a very personal and practical book, offering examples from the author's own life experience. What makes this book distinct, however, is its spiritual perspective. It draws its principles from the bible and applies them to the real and often painful world of writing.

I found that this book does not just guide its readers. It motivates and inspires them. I found myself captivated as I read each chapter. Well worth reading.

Know you have something to say, but don't know quite how to put it on paper? Writers in the Spirit gives inspiration and hope to anyone wanting to write Christian experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Don't let writer's block stop you when there is help from kindred souls.

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of devotional writings out there, from the periodicals such as Upper Room, to full-size books for everyone from dieters to caregivers and general books such as Daily Guideposts. We all have one or two, or an assortment. But Writer's in the Spirit is, I believe, the first one specifically for writers. And it is excellent.

Sally Stuart (Christian Writer's Market Guide) wrote: "Writers in the Spirit helps connect me to God while reminding me that writing is a gift from Him and a calling to be both treasured and nurtured." This reviewer agrees. Reading this book has been a unique experience and a book I will probably reread over time.

Carol Rottman writes with a fresh voice, providing inspiration and introspection with each paragraph. In places, the book reads like a journal, revealing discoveries about herself and her writing journey. Chapters are written as mini-essays and never fail to drive home a point to the reader. Doesn't matter what type of writing you do, there is something here that is bound to bless, encourage, inspire, and even admonish.

The book is divided into eleven topical sections such as "Nourishment," "Understanding," "Realism," and "Creation." No, that last is not about God's creation - the sub-caption says "Writing is creating. No writer writes like anyone else; each voice is unique." Each of these topical sections consists of several short essays that delve into the topic, followed by tips, hints and advice, and a writing challenge.

Says Rottman: "Writing for me is a form of meditation. I love the discipline of writing everyday using the ever-changing experiences in my life. I've discovered that God has equipped many of us with a desire to share our understanding of life through the written word. I agree with Jerry Jenkins, who once said, `I don't sing or dance or preach. I have been given one gift, so I feel obligated to exercise it in the work of the kingdom.' I treasure the awesome gift."

WRITERS IN THE SPIRIT is a great book, and would be a wonderful gift to another writer in your life, and definitely for yourself, too. Christmas is right around the corner. Get your copy now.

© Peggy Phifer, Editor, Wordsmith Shoppe Writer

Side bar: Writers in the Spirit was one of only six featured books in the quarterly publication, Christian Retailing. The author, Carol Rottman, was also chosen to lead a discussion on the national teleconference for the Association of Christian Writers.