Brief but inspiring essays. Good pep talks. ( )

This is a collection of very short essays on the process of writing. The brevity of most of the sections makes them easily digestible but also has the effect of making the overall book somewhat bumpy and uneven -- almost stream-of-consciousness. Still, there's a lot of material here to motivate and inspire writers. ( )

Like many before me who have read this book (this is an e-book from Early Reviewers) I was struck that it might give me the inspiration needed to work on my interest in novel or short-story writing and things are coming along. Sometimes it takes just the right book. ( )

I received a free e-book version of Your Writing Matters: 34 Quick Essays to Get Unstuck and Stay Inspired (amazon associate link) by Keiko O'Leary from the publisher through the Library Thing early reviewers program.
My Expectations: I enjoy a good craft book. From the sub-title I expected tools and tips to get me motivated and inspired to write.
What I liked: Let's start with that beautiful cover: it has gorgeous artwork and a great layout. The sub-title tells the reader exactly what she'll get: very short essays intended to motivate writers to finish every piece of writing. The essays use personal examples from the writers life and use an informal, conversational tone, bringing the reader into her process as if the reader is a member of her writing group, "Write to the End." This makes the reader feel included in
What I didn’t like: The essays read a little too much like blog posts. The book would benefit by some organization creating a progression toward a conclusion. Though I enjoyed the essays, the book overall could use more specific tips and clear steps. The random quotes taken from the essays themselves don't add to the text, and seem like an awkward way to take up space.
Rating: ♦♦♦▴ 3.5 out of 5
Overall, I enjoyed the majority of the essays. I recommend this book for the beginning writer who feels motivated by knowing someone else is experiencing a similar journey. ( )

I just wasn't expecting essays when I read "Your Writing Matters: 34 Quick Essays to Get Unstuck and Stay Inspired". This is inspirational and the written essays encourage realistic thoughts on how to stay focused and positive on one's writing path. I like that it suggests not finishing stories you don't feel... I tend to think I have to write (or read) to the bitter end. I feel freer to pursue that which matters and believe that will keep my writing moving forward and in process. I somehow thought this was about writing prompts which is my mistake; the title, while lengthy, is accurate. ( )