Well, that was a cool splash of water across my face! Refreshing, funny, encouraging without being too madly so (after all, the writing biz is a tough slog no matter how you approach it), and filled with useful tips, Ridler’s latest effort is well worth a read.
He describes his struggles with gaining acceptance as a writer, outlines the little bursts of joy that happen occasionally that keep us going, pushes back at all those “how to make a million writing fan fiction in a year” piles of trash that are killing trees for no reason.
Ridler hasn’t had an easy go of it, but his optimism shines throughout. Like a weeble, he wobbles but never falls, and I am agog in admiration at all he has managed to do in his diverse and vaguely madcap life.
It’s just the book I NEEDED to read, as I struggle through revisions to my novel and wonder if anyone will really a. care if I get it right or b. read it at all. My creative mind is stuck in that project and I can feel it turning grey. No longer! I feel all pinked up after this delightful, gossipy, fun take on the writing/publishing industry.
Full disclosure- I know Jay from years ago and have watched in admiration as he copes with the slings and arrows- he’s altogether a great guy.Buy his book. You won’t regret it. I’m going to keep it on my “read when blue” list.
Oh, and did I mention- he has a whole list of intriguing books at the end of the book- by authors I am looking forward to meeting. Can’t wait to get started. But first, I think I’ll write a little something. My muse just woke up and she’s laughing. ( )