I just read Zen In The Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury. With my two novels and many short stories out there (and a third novel drafted--and feeling a bit weary), I chose this book hoping for a shot in the arm. And it is ever! Here's my review:

The best chapter in this book is "How to Keep and Feed a Muse." No kidding. Bradbury really hits it when he explains the Subconscious creative energy of writing. His suggests to read poetry every day (and essays) because it 'flexes muscles you don't use often enough.' I especially like the chapter Zen in the Art of Writing where he instructs you to WORK. RELAX. DON'T THINK. To uncover that creative "flow" is where to uncover the story. Love your work. Be passionate about your characters. This is a very inspirational book. What does he say about plot? "Plot is no more than footprints left in the snow AFTER your characters have run by on their way to incredible destinations. Plot is observed after the fact rather than before. It cannot precede action. It cannot be mechanical. It can only be dynamic." Every writer should read this book.