Reviewer Michelle Kaye Malsbury:
Michelle was born in Champaign, IL. Currently, she resides in Asheville, NC
and is in her second year of doctoral studies at Nova Southeastern
University in Ft. Lauderdale with specialization/concentration in
conflict resolution and peace studies. She has over six hundred
articles published on the web and one book published thus far with
many more in the wings. Hobbies include; reading, writing, music, and
playing with her Australian Cattle Dog, Abu.
Author: Laura Brown, Author
Publisher: W.W. Norton & Company
ISBN: 978-0-393-24014-6
Chapter one introduces the reader to how to organize what they intend to write. “Purpose, Reader, Brainstorm, Organize, Draft, and Revise.” (p.6, 2014) Ms. Brown says that this process works for some, but not for everyone. “Successful writers know it is possible to start anywhere…”
Chapter two asks the writer to consider the purpose of what they intend to write. One question to ask yourself is---“What exactly are you hoping to accomplish…?” (p.7, 2014) Doctor Brown intertwines purpose with the reader. She suggests that there are two items that should be adequately considered when thinking about the reader’s point of view; “…information and attitude.” (p.10) This is not an easy process. “The golden rule for selecting information is this: include enough of the right kind of information to get readers to do what you want them to do.”
Section II delves into how technology has changed the writing landscape. Writing for the internet doctor Brown calls “e-writing”. (p.23, 2014) This style includes text messages, emails, blogging, announcements, etc.. The chapters that follow dissect each possible form of writing and help the reader to assimilate how best to go about putting their words down so the reader can enjoy.
Throughout the book there are numerous examples of how our words impact the reader and depending on our purpose what we should do to give them our best and make our message understood at the level it was intended. For instance, on page 109 (2014) there is a opening sentence regarding a death of a friend. Doctor Brown suggests that “A simple and direct opening can often be more eloquent and effective than something flowery and elaborate. Write from your heart.” Good advice!
Organize. Draft. Revise. This book is packed with do’s and don’ts to help the reader wanna be writer learn how to go about this craft. There are tips on how to approach a fund-raising letter, vehicle sales and payment notice, resume writing, etc..
I enjoyed this book and believe you will too. There were things that I just do without even knowing, but it is a process and however we perform that process this book will be a valuable guide. Enjoy the trip!