This is not a Review

I recently finished reading Stephen King’s On Writing. The main reason I’m not reviewing it is that I have no idea where to begin. It is a collection of anecdotes (usually funny) sprinkled with writing tips and creative exercises. And, honestly, how do you review one of our times most successful writers tips on writing?

But I will say that I’m encouraged by this book. Encouragement #1: I own the only writing manual King thinks is worth owning. Encouragement #2: I think like Stephen King. (Okay, maybe that shouldn’t be encouraging) His process of developing a story (just watch and write down what your characters do) is very similar to my own. And he states that the only way to be a successful author is to be an avid reader. (Insert huge checkmark here) So…. That means I’m going to be as successful as Stephen King one day, right?

And when I’m famous I fully intend to make use of his other tips: take walks (but not on winding roads), develop a group of honest beta readers, let all stories “incubate” before doing a second draft, and take no more than a few months on a first draft.  As for now, I just want to write in a room with a door. That way I can write without… oh look, a kitty.