I won a few writing contests throughout elementary school and in junior high my creative writing teacher submitted one of my stories, without my knowledge, into a contest for a national magazine and I won! In high school my focus was more on the performing arts, but all of my English teachers encouraged me to pursue writing. I didn't take their advice and my writing professionally stopped there. I have, however, maintained a detailed journal throughout the years in hopes that one day I could tell my story. For me, writing isn't about being famous, or having the most followers on social media, it's for the love of writing.
In the back of my mind I do dream about getting serious and one day getting published. To see my name on the cover of a book would be a dream come true, but how do I get serious? Where do I start? There's so much to being published besides the writing itself, and it can be daunting and overwhelming for someone who is just starting out, which is why I was so happy to receive a copy of Write Smart, Write Happy by Cheryl St. John.
Talk about an incredible resource! This book is a wealth of information for those that want to get serious about their writing and being published. Ms. St. John goes into great detail about every aspect of writing imaginable, from the importance of continuing to have a social life and tips on getting organized, to the importance of self-discipline, making your writing time a priority, and even tips on creating a writing space. The author's honesty about her own personal journey as a writer is refreshing and is beautifully intermingled with practical tips that you can put into practice immediately.
So many believe that a writer's life is glamorous but Ms. St. John sets the record straight, outlining the many steps it takes to be published, as well as dealing with bad reviews, ugly rejections, and the personal sacrifices that you have to make to see your dream realized. The author does not sugar coat anything, but lays everything out there in black and white, leaving you with no questions about what it takes to be a successful writer.
I tried to read this book straight through but I kept stopping to jot down notes and highlight, so I finally gave up and just skimmed it. This will be a resource that I will be coming back to more and more as I get more serious about my writing. After skimming this book I actually pulled out a manuscript that I've been working on for a few years and started working on it again. I am now more motivated than ever to one day be published, and with Write Smart, Write Happy I have an incredible tool to help me get focused, and do it the right way.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. All opinions are my own.
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