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1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
A Nudge Needed Jun 19, 2007
As I have been published in a weekly newspaper column for more than ten years, I probably fit more in the group called '...writers' rather than persons new to writing who are trying to gain traction.
Like most writers I hesitate to declare that I am one.I do however write, regularly, for publication.
Milli's book and guidance gave me a different direction to go in.I had reached a cross road and was stalled. Her book provided a stimulus and a challenge.It also provided a frame to work within.
Her list of topics and coaching were very useful, are valued still.
Had I not bought the book and read it, digested it in part, I might never have tried doing fiction.
This book provided a solid point of departure.It provided credible assistance along the route.
More than those things, it provided a place in which some of us may try different things, with firm but empathetic direction as we try.
Anyone who is serious about writing has recognizable milestones that are beside the path or trail they take or are shown.
I have a feeling this book Milli Thornton created may very well be one of those for me.
Respectfully Submitted,
F.S. Lentz
4 of 5 found the following review helpful:
Got me writing again Feb 24, 2006
Milli Thornton's Fear of Writing has inspired me to write again, helping to end a lengthy 'writer's block.' I have enjoyed responding to the prompts.
10 of 11 found the following review helpful:
She Has Spies In My House! I Just Know It! Jan 12, 2006
What I want to know is how Milli Thornton knew exactly where I was when I began reading Fear Of Writing: I was curled up in bed. She knew that, and she told me that I was not allowed to read her book in bed:
"To begin with, this is not a bedtime book. Just as you would never dream of exercising aerobically right before you go to sleep, this book should be strictly a daytime pursuit. . . . so don't read this book in bed (Thornton, 10)."
When I read this, I put the book down. But I was afraid to pick it up again. What else would Thornton know about me? Would she know that I hate everything I write as soon as I write it? Would she know that I often don't write because I know I'll end up hating my work-that I make myself fail before I even try?
I did finally conquer my fear of reading Fear Of Writing, though, and I am glad I did. Thornton's insights, anecdotes, and short stories are not only helpful, but are also fun to read. And her Fertile Material exercises stretch the imagination! I've written from the point of view of a mutt-hating Siamese cat, a cockroach-loving activist, and a jazz musician.
I love that Thornton gives her readers no pressure to write the perfect piece. She gives a prompt, and you can write whatever you want, be it a poem, a dialogue, a short story, or a stream-of-consciousness piece. You don't even have to finish the story! Just write something, anything, to get those creative juices flowing. You can choose to share your writings with others (I have found that sharing them with the Fertile Material group on Yahoo! is quite rewarding.) or keep them to yourself. You simply write for yourself-an audience of one. No fear there!
This is an absolutely wonderful book! Anyone plagued by the fear-of-writing bug should read it and use the Fertile Material exercises. You won't be sorry!
7 of 8 found the following review helpful:
I'm free! Dec 29, 2005
I didn't really think of myself as a closet writer, or even a writer of any kind for that matter, until I read a copy of "Fear of Writing." Even though I had ideas for books "I want to write someday" swimming in my head, I never had the courage to embrace the idea of it actually coming to fruition until I read Milli's book. Her book changed my attitude and diminished my fear within the first few pages. "Fear of Writing" gave me instant inspiration and permission to write freely without worrying about making a mistake. Heaven forbid I make a mistake! I've been doing that in my everyday life, so why am I worried about it in writing? I love this book and I respect Milli for her courage and tenacity to make this book happen and her willingness to share her knowledge. If you have ever once considered creating a story of any kind, do yourself a favor and read Milli's book. You won't regret it.
9 of 10 found the following review helpful:
The Cure For What Ails Ya! Dec 18, 2005
Do I have a "Fear Of Writing?" You bet I do. I'm loaded with it.
And sometimes, before buying this book, I was paralyzed by my fear.
But then, I happened upon a magical book. I discovered Milli Thornton's "Fear Of Writing: For Writers & Closet Writers," and this wonderful book helped me understand that being afraid to write didn't make me a failed writer. Having a "Fear Of Writing" is a natural outgrowth of my own desires to become a better and more successful writer.
Did this book cure me of my fear? Absolutely not.
Instead, I've found that this text has given me the tools I need to continue to write in spite of my fear. I've learned that being afraid is okay. And, most importantly to me, I've come to understand that I am NOT a failed writer unless I allow my fear to control me and prevent me from writing.
Using a series of fun and imaginative exercises, as well as personal anecdotes and insight from other writers, Ms. Thornton has written a book that provides what individual writers need most.
Need the warmth of a hug to support you and get you back to your desk?
You'll find that hug in these pages.
Need a sprinkling of fairy-dust to call your muse back to your side?
This book will show you many, many ways to locate a muse that's gone missing.
Maybe you're like me, though.
Maybe what you really need is a kick in the seat of your britches.
Maybe that's what it will take to get you writing again.
If so, the author will give you a firm but gentle boot with the included "Fertile Material Exercises." These exercises are enchanting, silly, exciting, and most of all, they are fun. Plus, they are certain to kick-start your imagination and get the words flowing.
This is one of those rare books that deserves a spot on every writer's desk. Regardless if you're a seasoned pro or someone completely new to creative writing, this book will help you write more, write better, and help you overcome your "Fear Of Writing."
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