The Writer Behind the Words: The Writer Behind the Words: Steps to Success in the Writing Life
by Dara Girard
Published by Ilori Press
Click on book
cover to order
at Amazon.com
Reviewed by Lisa Frisbie
Anyone who has considered writing for a living, as opposed to simply writing as a hobby or pastime, will benefit from Dara Girard’s new book. An award-winning romance author and novelist, Girard fills several dozen chapters of this book with short, readable excerpts about life as a professional writer.
From overcoming rejection to recovering from bad reviews, readers learn that many successful authors have faced significant obstacles along their pathway to publishing. Such obstacles, Girard argues, are entirely normal and to be expected by all, including the so-called rich and famous. Beginning writers should definitely expect rejection and should not be surprised or overwhelmed when their writing receives a negative review.
Write – whether inspired or not – says Girard. Don’t sit around moodily, waiting for a muse that may be delayed or may never arrive. Sit down and get to writing. Creative or not, the words will come. Get them on screen or on paper: keep writing.
Unpublished writers will learn a lot from this book, despite its relatively few pages. Published writers will find the encouragement they need to keep moving forward. All working writers will relate to the stories, ideas, and concepts that Girard shares.
In less than 120 pages of actual text, the author covers a wide range of topics that merit consideration by anyone considering a career in words. Lending credibility to her personal perspective, the author cites experiences of major contemporary authors such as Stephen King, showing the reader how even the famous have survived setbacks en route to publication, financial success, and a wide readership.
NOTE: Together with her husband, this reviewer has written numerous articles and eight books.
Armchair Interviews says: Every author was once a first-time author—so keep writing!
Author’s Web site: http://www.DaraGirard.com