Bird by Bird, a Classic Writing Book that every Writer should Read

by Lynn H Blackburn @LynnHBlackburn

Do you have a list of classics you’ve never read? You know, the ones you intended to read, but somehow they slipped through the literary cracks?

Now you’re all grown up and when people talk about these books you nod in agreement, because EVERYONE knows how awesome that book is.

But the truth is, YOU DON’T because you haven’t read it. And whenever anyone brings it up you remind yourself—again—that you’ve got to read that book just so you won’t feel like the only forty-year-old who hasn’t read To Kill A Mockingbird. (Hangs head in shame)

That’s how I’ve been feeling about Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott.

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