Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Book Review - Dancing on the Head of a Pin


ABOUT THE BOOK:

A compelling combination of advice and inspiration, Dancing on the Head of a Pen will challenge and encourage writers, artists, musicians, painters—anyone drawn to a life of artistic expression.

Digging deeply into his own writing habits, failures, and successes, Robert Benson helps you choose the ideal audience for your work, commit to it, and overcome the hurdles that inevitably confront both aspiring artists and accomplished professionals.

Extending beyond the craft of writing, this gentle book moves into a rich discussion on the relationship between spirituality and art. Including wisdom from revered writers past and present, Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a beautiful mosaic of inspiration, practical help, and a glimpse into the disciplines that shape one writer’s life.


MY REVIEW:

I've read many, many "how to be a writer" books, but I have to say that I gained more from this little book than all the others put together!

Robert Benson shares his own journey of writing with his readers and how he goes about doing his called vocation. He gives so many practical ideas that he puts into practice himself. I learned what to do and what not to do if I'm going to be a writer. The one "not to do" that really hit home with me was not to talk about what I'm writing with just anyone, and even then, not to talk it to death. I do believe that's my biggest mistake as a writer. I out too much credence in what others think about it before it's even done. Plus, as Robert shares, you literally can talk it to death to the point where it never ends up on paper.

He also shares about the three hats (you'll have to read the book to find out what this means) and how they apply to his writing. This made so much sense to me and gave me the freedom to put pen to paper and just write. It helped me to understand the process of writing, too!

I can't wait to put into practice all that Robert shared and, if you have the calling to write, I highly recommend this book! It will give you so many ideas plus the confidence to go forth and write. This book will be going on my shelf of books that I return to again and again! I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by the Blogging for Books program


Blessings - Julie

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