Thursday Reviews, Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott

Today I want to review one of my favorite writing books, Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird.

Unlike the other books I’ve reviewed so far, it’s not a book on the craft of writing. At least not in the sense of writing do’s and don’ts. It is inspirational. I found her honesty incredibly freeing. She shares the joys and pitfalls common to all writers. She reminds us that, while writing is a solitary pursuit, we are not alone.

My favorite chapter of the book is Sh***y First Drafts. I know the language is strong, but it got my attention. She gave me the permission I needed to write first, edit later. I realized it was perfectly fine to write the story or the article and come back a second or a third time to do the editing. I don’t know where I got the idea I had to be perfect. But in case you have the same struggle, she has a chapter on Perfectionism.

Where ever you are in your writing journey, I recommend you add Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird to your list of must-have’s. This book belongs on every writer’s reference shelf.

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Blessings,
Edie