Why We Write: 20 Acclaimed Authors on How and Why They Do What They Do

Not so compelling ( )

This is a collection of essays by twenty different authors about why they write. While there was a lot of repetition (frequently "I can't not write"), I found many of the stories to be very interesting. I particularly liked the essay by Isabel Allende. She starts writing every book on January 8th. She writes in Spanish even though she is fluent in English. The same person always translates her works and Allende works closely with her, often correcting a word or choosing another instead. "I correct to the point of exhaustion," she says. David Baldacci's defense of "popular fiction" as opposed to "literary fiction" was also quite interesting. I have not read anything by Katherine Harrison, but after reading her essay, I want to.
( )

Twenty well-known authors are all asked the same questions … the 5 W’s of writing. Their answers to these questions make up this book, along with a brief personal history, a synopsis of their work, the first paragraph of their newest offering and their advice to anyone considering writing as a career.

This was an interesting and informative little book, especially for someone who loves to read. I was familiar with all of the names in the book, but have not read works by every author included. Some good insights into how writing and publishing have changed over the years. Some really intriguing little quirks about the authors themselves as well.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book is being donated to an organization called 826 National, an innovative youth literacy program.
( )

One of the things I loved about this book was the diversity of perspectives from the 20 authors who gave their opinions on why we write. We don't all write for the same reasons, but understanding the reasons why some others write can provide us insight into ourselves and our culture. The book is also inspirational and filled with advice and encouragement for authors. Highly recommended for authors and those who aspire to write. ( )

Inspired by George Orwell's famous essay 20 authors elaborate on why they write, where do they get their inspiration, etc. ...
Although I'm not familiar with most of these writer's work this was a very enjoyable read. Success didn't come overnight for these people, they had to struggle a lot before becoming famous. I particularly liked that at the end of each chapter there is a part titled "Wisdom for Writers" where each of them give some special advice.
Jennifer Egan: "Exercising is a good analogy for writing. If you're not used to exercising you want to avoid it forever. If you're used to it, it feels uncomfortable and strange not to. No matter where you are in your writing career, the same is true for writing. Even fifteen minutes a day will keep you in the habit." ( )