Complied and Edited by: Pat McGrath Avery, Joyce Faulkner, Carolyn Howard-Johnson

ISBN: (13) 978-0-9743758-9-2

When I opened up The Complete Writer’s Journal it was as if I had discovered a trunk full of diamonds, rubies and pearls all pertaining to the craft of writing.

Many of you may ask what a writer’s journal is and why is it important? Basically, it is a recording of occurrences, experiences, observations and reflections that a writer would keep on a regular basis. Writers use the journal for a variety of purposes such as note taking, drawing scenes, reminder notes, draft writing, addresses, comments etc. It is a tool that writer’s use in order to discover the hidden wisdom they possess-a kind of brainstorming.

The co-editors of The Complete Writer’s Journal have not only given us a writer’s journal that comprises blank pages but they have also included pearls of wisdom that will challenge, humor and even surprise us with many hours of fun and inspiration. The 104 pages of sage advice that is passed onto us emanate from the pens of a diverse group of over one hundred writers, teachers, promoters, illustrators and publishers who have provided us with some very profound thoughts. These down-to-earth reflections and tips about writing will no doubt serve as an inspiration and launching pad in developing our own creativity.

When referring to fiction, Paul Toth, author of Fizz and Fishnet describes the writing of fiction as follows: “try to think of fiction the way an engineer designs highways. There comes a time for scenic views, for dips and unexpected curves, for slower and faster moment. Variety makes for better traveling, whether driving or reading.”

To tickle our funny bone Natalie D’Annibale Bandlow, author of Parent to Child-The Journal and Parent to Child-The Guide points out: “write as if today were your last, for one day you will be right.” Regen Schilken, author of The Oculi Incident and The Island Off Stony Point writes, “if I must die to be a recognized author, I can surely wait a lot longer.” Jerry Pat Boloton, author of fairy? A Cautionary Tale comically asks: “we are told to write what we know. Does this mean if we write about murder we must kill for originality?”

As an added plus, this writer’s journal is compact enough to be easily tucked into a purse, backpack or carried inconspicuously in your hand. Moreover, the journal’s strong cover and sturdy spiral bound pages that open flat for sketching will give it good consumer appeal.