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You've Got a Book in You: A Stress-Free Guide to Writing the Book of Your Dreams
Writing a book is fun and easy--yes, FUN AND EASY--but it may not always feel that way. How do you find the time to write? How do you keep momentum? How do you deal with the horror of showing anyone a single sentence of your work-in-progress? The answers remain fun and easy, and author Elizabeth Sims will take your hand, dispel your worries, and show you how it's done in this stress-free guide to accomplishing your dream of writing your book.
In You've Got a Book in You, Elizabeth is that encouraging voice guiding you through the entire process, from finding the right time and place to gathering all of your creative tools to diving right in and getting it done--page by page, step by step. It's easier than you think, and it all starts right here, right now.
In You've Got a Book in You, Elizabeth is that encouraging voice guiding you through the entire process, from finding the right time and place to gathering all of your creative tools to diving right in and getting it done--page by page, step by step. It's easier than you think, and it all starts right here, right now.
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2013
72 people are currently reading
589 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Sims
28 books112 followersElizabeth Sims is an American author and writing authority. Her novels include the Lambda Award-winning Lillian Byrd crime series and the Rita Farmer mystery series, and she writes frequently for Writer's Digest magazine, where she is a Contributing Editor.
Booklist calls her work "crime fiction as smart as it is compelling," and Crimespree magazine praises her "strong voice and wonderful characters."
Are you a writer too—or would you like to be one? If so, you might find inspiration in Elizabeth's book You've Got a Book in You: A Stress-Free Guide to Writing the Book of Your Dreams, published by Writer's Digest Books.
Elizabeth earned degrees in English from Michigan State University and Wayne State University, where she won the Tompkins Award for graduate fiction. She has worked as a reporter, editor, photographer, technical writer, bookseller, street busker, ranch hand, corporate executive, and symphonic percussionist. Elizabeth belongs to several literary societies as well as American Mensa.
To learn more about her and to view a full list of her available works, including free excerpts and book discussion guides, visit www.elizabethsims.com
There you can get in touch and / or join her newsgroup.
Booklist calls her work "crime fiction as smart as it is compelling," and Crimespree magazine praises her "strong voice and wonderful characters."
Are you a writer too—or would you like to be one? If so, you might find inspiration in Elizabeth's book You've Got a Book in You: A Stress-Free Guide to Writing the Book of Your Dreams, published by Writer's Digest Books.
Elizabeth earned degrees in English from Michigan State University and Wayne State University, where she won the Tompkins Award for graduate fiction. She has worked as a reporter, editor, photographer, technical writer, bookseller, street busker, ranch hand, corporate executive, and symphonic percussionist. Elizabeth belongs to several literary societies as well as American Mensa.
To learn more about her and to view a full list of her available works, including free excerpts and book discussion guides, visit www.elizabethsims.com
There you can get in touch and / or join her newsgroup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 4, 2019
Move this from your to-read shelf and put it on the currently reading one, then keep it there! This is the best writing reference book I've read, and I've read a ton of them. It's helping me get off my butt, stop feeling sorry for myself and all those rejections, and get back to the thing I love most in the world... writing! Finally a book full of spirit that tells you it's ok to have a good time while you write. Whatever stage you're in as an author - dreamer, currently struggling or already famous - this book will become your new best friend. Thanks, Ms. Sims for putting the zest back in writing books!!!
December 21, 2013
Rating: 4 of 5
A fun, informed pep talk sure to inspire all writers - of fiction and non-fiction - especially those feeling stressed and discouraged.
You've Got a Book in You hooked me at chapter one, "Writing a book is easy and fun."
Right?!?!
I knew immediately this was NOT the typical writing guide filled with rules and shoulds and other stress-inducing, creativity-killing tips. Nope, here was validation, by a bona fide author, of what my heart knows but my head needs constant reminding.
Sims wrote in a friendly, conversational style with humor and honesty. At NO point did I think she wrote this book as an ego boost, to puff herself up as an expert in all things writerly. Instead, she came across as someone motivated by a genuine desire for every writer to write. I dig that.
Stormwriting and Writing With the Masters opened me up to SO much, I may write Sims a personal "Thank You" note. For whatever reason, her methods truly resonated with me and where my head was stuck the past 18 months.
Highly recommended to beginners, but even more highly recommended to writers who feel stuck or those who forget how freakin' FUN and exciting it is to write.
A fun, informed pep talk sure to inspire all writers - of fiction and non-fiction - especially those feeling stressed and discouraged.
You've Got a Book in You hooked me at chapter one, "Writing a book is easy and fun."
Right?!?!
I knew immediately this was NOT the typical writing guide filled with rules and shoulds and other stress-inducing, creativity-killing tips. Nope, here was validation, by a bona fide author, of what my heart knows but my head needs constant reminding.
Sims wrote in a friendly, conversational style with humor and honesty. At NO point did I think she wrote this book as an ego boost, to puff herself up as an expert in all things writerly. Instead, she came across as someone motivated by a genuine desire for every writer to write. I dig that.
Stormwriting and Writing With the Masters opened me up to SO much, I may write Sims a personal "Thank You" note. For whatever reason, her methods truly resonated with me and where my head was stuck the past 18 months.
Highly recommended to beginners, but even more highly recommended to writers who feel stuck or those who forget how freakin' FUN and exciting it is to write.
May 15, 2013
You've Got a Book in You has something to offer every level of writer.
This book gives writers, especially, new writers a very realistic view of and the skills for what it takes to become a successful author. You've Got a Book in You is easy to read and teaches writers how to get out of their own way and unearth the book buried inside of them.
I've been a published author since 2005. I write fiction and non- fiction and found many helpful hints in this book, especially for my current non- fiction work in progress. Sim ' s chapter on mapping for non- fiction, which included hints like "Each chapter must tell its own story and each chapter should be based on a dramatic moment ( heart clutching moment) were very helpful. Sim’s discusses how important flow is to good writing. Sim's, like Hemingway, gives us permission to write crap at first. This is probably the most freeing advice anyone can give a writer. Obsessing over details leads to writer's block. Writing free and easy opens up your mind and helps unearth your story. "It's beautiful to know that giving up control ultimately rewards you with what you seek the most: consistent, insightful work." This book also has a great section on how to write dialogue, how to portray emotion in dialogue, as well as how to give each character a distinctive voice. (Not an easy feat.)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to write. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, sci-fi or romance, You’ve Got a Book in You is full of common sense advice that will benefit the novice as well as the well- seasoned writer.
This book gives writers, especially, new writers a very realistic view of and the skills for what it takes to become a successful author. You've Got a Book in You is easy to read and teaches writers how to get out of their own way and unearth the book buried inside of them.
I've been a published author since 2005. I write fiction and non- fiction and found many helpful hints in this book, especially for my current non- fiction work in progress. Sim ' s chapter on mapping for non- fiction, which included hints like "Each chapter must tell its own story and each chapter should be based on a dramatic moment ( heart clutching moment) were very helpful. Sim’s discusses how important flow is to good writing. Sim's, like Hemingway, gives us permission to write crap at first. This is probably the most freeing advice anyone can give a writer. Obsessing over details leads to writer's block. Writing free and easy opens up your mind and helps unearth your story. "It's beautiful to know that giving up control ultimately rewards you with what you seek the most: consistent, insightful work." This book also has a great section on how to write dialogue, how to portray emotion in dialogue, as well as how to give each character a distinctive voice. (Not an easy feat.)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to write. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, sci-fi or romance, You’ve Got a Book in You is full of common sense advice that will benefit the novice as well as the well- seasoned writer.
June 18, 2013
When I first sauntered, near-sighted - literally and figuratively - into the arena of fiction-writing several years ago, I looked for basic, yet comprehensive references, primers if you will, from which I might learn the fundamentals. Little did I know that the book for which I was searching had not been written or published at the time.
I had been looking for Elizabeth Sims,' YOU'VE GOT A BOOK IN YOU, a book with an unassuming, yet straightforward title, no surprise for those who have read her many magazine articles on the craft. Ms. Sims approaches writing and aspiring writers in a bottom-up style, from consideration of pens, pencils, paper, keyboards, and software to the mental, emotional and psychological aspects of writing fiction or nonfiction. Along the way, she addresses writers' worries and hurdles with techniques such as establishing the writer's garret(s); asking, "Yes, and-" and "What if?"; "Writing With the Masters"; and "stormwriting," among others.
Depending on the aspiring writer's skill and development levels, portions of this book, seasoned with grit and real-life humor, may require a second or third read when the time comes, as mentioned in the last chapter. That's good news because this book is an excellent reference to access many times during development of a writer's skills.
I had been looking for Elizabeth Sims,' YOU'VE GOT A BOOK IN YOU, a book with an unassuming, yet straightforward title, no surprise for those who have read her many magazine articles on the craft. Ms. Sims approaches writing and aspiring writers in a bottom-up style, from consideration of pens, pencils, paper, keyboards, and software to the mental, emotional and psychological aspects of writing fiction or nonfiction. Along the way, she addresses writers' worries and hurdles with techniques such as establishing the writer's garret(s); asking, "Yes, and-" and "What if?"; "Writing With the Masters"; and "stormwriting," among others.
Depending on the aspiring writer's skill and development levels, portions of this book, seasoned with grit and real-life humor, may require a second or third read when the time comes, as mentioned in the last chapter. That's good news because this book is an excellent reference to access many times during development of a writer's skills.
February 11, 2014
I completely enjoyed reading this book and found it to be enormously helpful. I had the pleasure of meeting and listening to Ms. Sims at a conference as she held a class and all I can say is WOW! This woman's energy is contagious. By the end of the class, I was so pumped up that all I wanted to do was return to my hotel room and write! She brings the same enthusiastic energy with her words inside this book. I will be surprised if you can't find something useful between its pages. And in the end I'm sure you too will find, you've got a book in you! Really. :)
June 24, 2013
This is the best book-writing guide I've read! Sims gently prods the reader along from vague idea--or no idea--to polished manuscript with warm encouragement, whimsy and wise advice. If you struggle with self-doubt or lack confidence in your book-writing skills, this is definitely the book for you! It's practical and imaginative book-writing wisdom. See my full review at www.freelancewrite.about.com
May 22, 2013
The perfect inspiration and confidence-building book for me. Elizabeth seems to speak directly to my fears, doubts, and questions with vivid and fresh guidance. I will keep going back to this book for a refresher and revitalization whenever my writing spirit flags. Thank you so much for writing and sharing, Elizabeth!
August 10, 2013
Huh. This is the first "self-help" or instructional book I think I've ever read cover to cover. Very practical, very engaging, very exciting.
July 29, 2013
As I was reading, I felt I had met a new found friend and mentor. Very practical, yet in a fun and inspiring way. I will definitely be revisiting her words.
February 10, 2014
Exactly what I didn't know that I wanted. Informative, helpful, and very encouraging, Sims comes across as an honest mentor who truly wishes you success!
May 8, 2019
This was a fun and inspiring book that puts the joy back in to writing. If you are bogged down in your effort to finish writing that novel of yours, get a copy of this book. It sweeps away the agony and gets you going again. A reminder that you got into writing because it is creative and fun. Otherwise you'd have to go sky diving.
July 31, 2015
A number of helpful tips are provided in this book, such as encouragement to worry less on a rough draft, to "simply persist," to focus on getting the thoughts down and refining them later.
The laid-back "Route 66 placemat" approach to planning helps to make the process feel less daunting. The author's comparison of writing to improv acting is helpful in conveying her advice on achieving "flow" in writing.
"Finding a garret," tightening copy, and working through "Writer's Block" are other useful topics addressed.
While the author uses a great many good words and phrases in this book, I am disappointed that she chose to stoop to the use of profanity in some portions. As she is a member of American Mensa, I have no doubt that she has a sufficient vocabulary to convey her points in a better manner.
Her recommendation of using Wikipedia is too cavalier. There is a general consensus that this is not a reliable source.
Made-up words can be fun; however, they can also be irritating, at least to some of us. "Stormwriting" is one thing; however, I cannot condone "heartbrain." The author's numerous references to it annoy and distract me.
While I appreciate the importance of providing examples, I see no need to ruin the ending to the referenced story in doing so, such as the author does with "The Great Gatsby."
The author provides helpful details as to how a writer can utilize the concept of "show, don't tell," such as with methods of portraying emotion through dialogue and using dialogue markers.
The tone throughout is optimistic and motivational. I have been able to take away some concepts that I will be able to use to create a smoother process in my writing.
The laid-back "Route 66 placemat" approach to planning helps to make the process feel less daunting. The author's comparison of writing to improv acting is helpful in conveying her advice on achieving "flow" in writing.
"Finding a garret," tightening copy, and working through "Writer's Block" are other useful topics addressed.
While the author uses a great many good words and phrases in this book, I am disappointed that she chose to stoop to the use of profanity in some portions. As she is a member of American Mensa, I have no doubt that she has a sufficient vocabulary to convey her points in a better manner.
Her recommendation of using Wikipedia is too cavalier. There is a general consensus that this is not a reliable source.
Made-up words can be fun; however, they can also be irritating, at least to some of us. "Stormwriting" is one thing; however, I cannot condone "heartbrain." The author's numerous references to it annoy and distract me.
While I appreciate the importance of providing examples, I see no need to ruin the ending to the referenced story in doing so, such as the author does with "The Great Gatsby."
The author provides helpful details as to how a writer can utilize the concept of "show, don't tell," such as with methods of portraying emotion through dialogue and using dialogue markers.
The tone throughout is optimistic and motivational. I have been able to take away some concepts that I will be able to use to create a smoother process in my writing.
November 21, 2014
You’ve got a Book in you is a must read, go-to guide to writing your book and developing trust in your own process. With guided, grounded advice, humorous commentary and simple to begin techniques that can be re-used this book has become my new writing Bible.
Aimed at those embarking on their first larger Fiction or Non-Fiction project this book is also essential for seasoned writers, both published and unpublished as it offers guidance that you can put into practice to cultivate a fun, easy, and achievable daily writing practice.
I found the concept of Storm Writing, Heart clenching moments, and her process for ‘making the book better’ changed my perspectives on writing, and my own practice. Writing is not a chronological process, and the revision state need not be either. If you buy one book on writing on writing your first book – look no further than: You’ve got a Book in you.
Aimed at those embarking on their first larger Fiction or Non-Fiction project this book is also essential for seasoned writers, both published and unpublished as it offers guidance that you can put into practice to cultivate a fun, easy, and achievable daily writing practice.
I found the concept of Storm Writing, Heart clenching moments, and her process for ‘making the book better’ changed my perspectives on writing, and my own practice. Writing is not a chronological process, and the revision state need not be either. If you buy one book on writing on writing your first book – look no further than: You’ve got a Book in you.
August 19, 2013
I don't consider myself seasoned enough to really discuss pro's and con's of "process" but believe in my heart that this best time to study craft is AFTER writing 100,000 words of dreck. Only then do these pearls sink in. I heard Elizabeth Sim's speak a couple of years ago and was impressed by her unique ability to distill ideas to and understandable essence.A rare gift.
Her book, "You've Got a Book in You" is just that. A distillation of some basic tenets that every writer can adopt. The examples were clear and resonant. And what I walked away with, along with some great tools, was a new understanding and trust in my own worth as a writer.I don't work like anyone else. My voice and process are unique to me. More importantly, that's OKAY!
Thanks, Ms Sim's for sharing your experience so eloquently!
Her book, "You've Got a Book in You" is just that. A distillation of some basic tenets that every writer can adopt. The examples were clear and resonant. And what I walked away with, along with some great tools, was a new understanding and trust in my own worth as a writer.I don't work like anyone else. My voice and process are unique to me. More importantly, that's OKAY!
Thanks, Ms Sim's for sharing your experience so eloquently!
May 14, 2013
This is a really nice book--upbeat, encouraging, and full of helpful advice for new or discouraged writers. It makes writing feel very doable in a way that some other books don't.
My only quibble is that the author has a tendency to define words that most people learn in elementary or middle school (she explains simile vs. metaphor, describes what a garret is, and defines pitch, timbre, and dozens of others). Halfway through I began to wonder if this book was intended for a YA audience. I think she should re-read the section that talks about how you shouldn't dumb down your material for your readers.
My only quibble is that the author has a tendency to define words that most people learn in elementary or middle school (she explains simile vs. metaphor, describes what a garret is, and defines pitch, timbre, and dozens of others). Halfway through I began to wonder if this book was intended for a YA audience. I think she should re-read the section that talks about how you shouldn't dumb down your material for your readers.
October 24, 2013
Throughout 2013, I've spent quite a bit of money on reference and "how-to" books on writing the next entry on the New York Times Bestseller list. Close to a year's salary has also been spent on numerous memoirs and novels, both beautiful and boring. (I could be exaggerating a tad about a year's salary.) While all of the books were recommended by established authors for aspiring authors, in all sincerity, I wish I had read Elizabeth's book sooner. She is truly a godsend for new and established writers. If you are pondering writing the next great American novel, do yourself a favor. BUY.THIS.BOOK.NOW!
September 7, 2020
3.5 stars. This was one of my favorite writing books back in 2013, but that was also the year I first started reading books on writing. I think it’s a fantastic book for first-time novelists and would definitely recommend it in that regard. However, if you’ve written a handful of books and know a lot about the craft, this one will feel more like a starter book. But again, it’s great for a writer newly learning the craft and wanting inspiration!
August 18, 2014
Every would-be writer needs to read this book to grasp that the writer must develop his or her own "voice." Elizabeth Sims writes with humor, yet her content excels in giving novice writers permission to be themselves. You will understand the difference between writing from the "real" you, rather than what you English teacher insisted when you attended sixth grade. I recommend this book to new members of our writers group.
Regards,
Ruth Glover
Regards,
Ruth Glover
July 8, 2016
Those who don't know yet that they love to write need this book. Sims dissects the writing process into a journey that seems possible and maybe even probable. I love that she anticipates blocks in a writer's confidence before you encounter them. Then it's no surprise that she has an answer to your obstacle that once again seems manageable. Thank you, Elizabeth Sims, for helping me write my book.
August 18, 2013
One of the best craft books of writing I've ever read. Very approachable and inspirational. Well done.
March 19, 2015
This is one of the best books on writing that I have read. It will stay as part of my collection.
August 22, 2015
very helpful and informative, and also uses excellent modern/pop culture examples so anyone under the age of 20 will be able to pick it up and read it.
July 10, 2013
It was a good read. It will be a good resource to go back to time and again.
April 11, 2024
It's rare to find a book about writing fiction and nonfiction that offers value for both sides of the equation.
In "You've Got A Book in You," Elizabeth Sims aims to guide three types of aspiring writers: those daunted by the idea of writing a book, those stuck during their writing journey, and those unsure how to begin.
Sims emphasizes that writing is accessible to all and encourages writers to embrace their creativity and intuition rather than conforming to rigid rules or self-doubt.
Here are several of the best takeaways from the book:
▪︎Writing a Book is Easy and Fun: Sims debunks the myth that writing a book is challenging, asserting that the key is to start writing. She highlights the transformative power of the writing process, which fosters self-discovery and personal growth. Emphasizing the freedom of expression in writing, Sims encourages writers to follow their creative instincts without fear of judgment or criticism.
▪︎A Pen is a Wrench is a Magic Saber: Carrying a notebook allows writers to capture spontaneous ideas and inspiration wherever they go. Sims advocates frequent library visits or bookstore visits to stimulate creativity and gather insights into book titles, characters, and plot details. By harnessing the power of serendipity, writers can enrich their writing with unexpected discoveries.
▪︎Tell a Story Like a Hero and Make Common Sense Your Writing Buddy: Writers are encouraged to adopt a heroic mindset as they embark on their writing journey. Sims emphasizes the importance of storytelling in engaging readers and advises writers to infuse their narratives with common sense and authenticity. By embracing their role as storytellers, writers can captivate audiences and convey their message effectively.
▪︎Find Your Garret, Your Space and Time: Discovering a comfortable and distraction-free writing space is essential for maintaining focus and productivity. Sims suggests drawing inspiration from the environment, whether observing people's behaviors in public spaces or immersing oneself in natural surroundings. Rather than adhering to a strict schedule, establishing a writing routine promotes consistency and creativity.
▪︎Stormwriting: The Tool of Tools: Sims introduces "stormwriting" as a dynamic approach to writing that embraces improvisation and exploration. Writers are encouraged to embrace spontaneity, ask "what if" questions, and follow tangents to uncover new possibilities. By focusing on individual sections of their book, writers can maintain momentum and overcome creative blocks.
▪︎Essentials: Every book is rooted in truth, populated by characters, and guided by a narrative map. Sims underscores the importance of authenticity, character development, and structure in crafting compelling stories. By adhering to these essentials, writers can create cohesive and impactful narratives that resonate with readers.
▪︎Your Truth: Finding the Heart of Your Book: Identifying the core truth of one's book provides clarity and purpose throughout the writing process. Sims encourages writers to align their writing goals with their values and intentions rather than external measures of success. By focusing on their unique truth, writers can infuse their work with authenticity and meaning.
▪︎Your People: Breathing Life Into Your Book: Developing memorable characters is essential for engaging readers and bringing stories to life. Sims advises writers to draw inspiration from real-life experiences, conduct thorough research, and invest in character development. By creating relatable and dynamic characters, writers can connect with audiences more deeply.
▪︎To Be Great, Strive to Be Ordinary: Sims advocates authenticity and simplicity, urging writers to embrace their unique voice and perspective. Rather than striving for perfection or complexity, writers should focus on communicating their message clearly and effectively. By staying true to themselves, writers can create genuine and impactful stories.
▪︎Relationships: The Key to Writing Compelling People: Writers are encouraged to observe human behavior and psychology to create authentic and relatable characters. Sims emphasizes the importance of dialogue and emotional resonance in crafting compelling narratives. By listening attentively and drawing inspiration from real-life interactions, writers can create rich, engaging stories.
▪︎How to Write a Chapter: Sims advises writers to craft compelling chapter endings and beginnings to maintain reader engagement. Incorporating anecdotes, conducting thorough research, and seeking feedback from beta readers are essential to refining one's writing. By prioritizing reader interest and clarity, writers can enhance the quality and impact of their work.
In "You've Got A Book in You," Elizabeth Sims aims to guide three types of aspiring writers: those daunted by the idea of writing a book, those stuck during their writing journey, and those unsure how to begin.
Sims emphasizes that writing is accessible to all and encourages writers to embrace their creativity and intuition rather than conforming to rigid rules or self-doubt.
Here are several of the best takeaways from the book:
▪︎Writing a Book is Easy and Fun: Sims debunks the myth that writing a book is challenging, asserting that the key is to start writing. She highlights the transformative power of the writing process, which fosters self-discovery and personal growth. Emphasizing the freedom of expression in writing, Sims encourages writers to follow their creative instincts without fear of judgment or criticism.
▪︎A Pen is a Wrench is a Magic Saber: Carrying a notebook allows writers to capture spontaneous ideas and inspiration wherever they go. Sims advocates frequent library visits or bookstore visits to stimulate creativity and gather insights into book titles, characters, and plot details. By harnessing the power of serendipity, writers can enrich their writing with unexpected discoveries.
▪︎Tell a Story Like a Hero and Make Common Sense Your Writing Buddy: Writers are encouraged to adopt a heroic mindset as they embark on their writing journey. Sims emphasizes the importance of storytelling in engaging readers and advises writers to infuse their narratives with common sense and authenticity. By embracing their role as storytellers, writers can captivate audiences and convey their message effectively.
▪︎Find Your Garret, Your Space and Time: Discovering a comfortable and distraction-free writing space is essential for maintaining focus and productivity. Sims suggests drawing inspiration from the environment, whether observing people's behaviors in public spaces or immersing oneself in natural surroundings. Rather than adhering to a strict schedule, establishing a writing routine promotes consistency and creativity.
▪︎Stormwriting: The Tool of Tools: Sims introduces "stormwriting" as a dynamic approach to writing that embraces improvisation and exploration. Writers are encouraged to embrace spontaneity, ask "what if" questions, and follow tangents to uncover new possibilities. By focusing on individual sections of their book, writers can maintain momentum and overcome creative blocks.
▪︎Essentials: Every book is rooted in truth, populated by characters, and guided by a narrative map. Sims underscores the importance of authenticity, character development, and structure in crafting compelling stories. By adhering to these essentials, writers can create cohesive and impactful narratives that resonate with readers.
▪︎Your Truth: Finding the Heart of Your Book: Identifying the core truth of one's book provides clarity and purpose throughout the writing process. Sims encourages writers to align their writing goals with their values and intentions rather than external measures of success. By focusing on their unique truth, writers can infuse their work with authenticity and meaning.
▪︎Your People: Breathing Life Into Your Book: Developing memorable characters is essential for engaging readers and bringing stories to life. Sims advises writers to draw inspiration from real-life experiences, conduct thorough research, and invest in character development. By creating relatable and dynamic characters, writers can connect with audiences more deeply.
▪︎To Be Great, Strive to Be Ordinary: Sims advocates authenticity and simplicity, urging writers to embrace their unique voice and perspective. Rather than striving for perfection or complexity, writers should focus on communicating their message clearly and effectively. By staying true to themselves, writers can create genuine and impactful stories.
▪︎Relationships: The Key to Writing Compelling People: Writers are encouraged to observe human behavior and psychology to create authentic and relatable characters. Sims emphasizes the importance of dialogue and emotional resonance in crafting compelling narratives. By listening attentively and drawing inspiration from real-life interactions, writers can create rich, engaging stories.
▪︎How to Write a Chapter: Sims advises writers to craft compelling chapter endings and beginnings to maintain reader engagement. Incorporating anecdotes, conducting thorough research, and seeking feedback from beta readers are essential to refining one's writing. By prioritizing reader interest and clarity, writers can enhance the quality and impact of their work.
December 26, 2022
The best thing about this how-to guide to writing, You’ve Got a Book in You: A Stress-free Guide to Writing the Book of Your Dreams, is the author’s enthusiasm and positive attitude.
Eilizabeth Sims starts the book by declaring: Writing a book is a heroic act, and it is an accomplishment no one can take away from you.
She also advises: you can choose to write with patience, receptiveness, and a heart filled with zest. You can have fun.
Some favorite gems:
The way to succeed as a writer, by whatever standards you set for yourself, is to persist.
You are the hero of your own life.
(Writing) Time is not the point. Productivity is.
Write like your life depends on it.
Eat a good breakfast every day.
You have to be okay with exposing yourself, because that’s the way we best relate to real stories.
Give up your addiction to struggle …Just let it go.
Few great artists color inside the lines.
Distinguish your large cast of characters by using different first initials…and vary your number of syllables and places of emphasis
While plot is important, good characters can make or break your book.
Every word you write must serve a purpose, whether to move the action forward or to develop a person (character).
Open your heartbrain and write from there. Become the person you’re writing about.
A Ray Bradbury quote: “You’ve got to jump off cliffs and build your wings on the way down.”
One of the most powerful ideas in the book is the “Heart-Clutching Moment.” These are the big set-pieces of a book: Judas takes the money. Murder, betrayal, love at first sight, a change of heart, forgiveness--any of these can serve as a heart-clutching moment. The skeleton of the book becomes a connect-the-dots map of these high moments.
A closing thought:
“The best artists know that if they dedicate themselves to the process, a beautiful result will follow. It might not be the result they first envisioned, but it will be honest and true.”
Eilizabeth Sims starts the book by declaring: Writing a book is a heroic act, and it is an accomplishment no one can take away from you.
She also advises: you can choose to write with patience, receptiveness, and a heart filled with zest. You can have fun.
Some favorite gems:
The way to succeed as a writer, by whatever standards you set for yourself, is to persist.
You are the hero of your own life.
(Writing) Time is not the point. Productivity is.
Write like your life depends on it.
Eat a good breakfast every day.
You have to be okay with exposing yourself, because that’s the way we best relate to real stories.
Give up your addiction to struggle …Just let it go.
Few great artists color inside the lines.
Distinguish your large cast of characters by using different first initials…and vary your number of syllables and places of emphasis
While plot is important, good characters can make or break your book.
Every word you write must serve a purpose, whether to move the action forward or to develop a person (character).
Open your heartbrain and write from there. Become the person you’re writing about.
A Ray Bradbury quote: “You’ve got to jump off cliffs and build your wings on the way down.”
One of the most powerful ideas in the book is the “Heart-Clutching Moment.” These are the big set-pieces of a book: Judas takes the money. Murder, betrayal, love at first sight, a change of heart, forgiveness--any of these can serve as a heart-clutching moment. The skeleton of the book becomes a connect-the-dots map of these high moments.
A closing thought:
“The best artists know that if they dedicate themselves to the process, a beautiful result will follow. It might not be the result they first envisioned, but it will be honest and true.”
October 7, 2020
Everything you could hope for in a book focused on getting a manuscript written. Sims was riveting, and I couldn't put the work down, literally finished it the day I borrowed it from the library. She's very blunt in her approach and makes you just want to skive away to a cabin by a river to write the next great novel. Each chapter had a one or more sections for practical practices and ideas to manage a lifestyle of writing, whether that be on the side of another fulltime job or talking yourself into living fully on the edge.
September 13, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, as it helped with putting words to concepts I've had in mind, structuring my writing, ensuring my story is well fleshed out, and so much more. I appreciate the examples as well (minus one, where she set the scene with a conflict between a thug and someone named jamal 🙄, but i digress) so that i can put things into better perspective.
Now, once I put my notes together, I'll be ready to write my book!
Now, once I put my notes together, I'll be ready to write my book!
September 26, 2017
Witty and insightful! Full of practical advice on how to actually enjoy the writing process. Elizabeth's sense of humor (*mild language) carries her message--WRITING A BOOK IS FUN AND EASY--throughout this book. You'll be torn by not wanting to put this book down and wanting to get started trying her suggestions
November 16, 2017
This was one of those books you could just skip around in and read what section you want when you needed it. I skipped around but what I did read, some parts were very touching and strengthening. It's very encouraging and light, and has plenty of tips for writing a book. I might come back and look at it again when I want to.
May 11, 2019
I’m reserving my 5 until I finish writing my novel and doing the exercises to prove how effective the book is for my purposes. However, this book has made me feel much more confident in starting the writing process.
There was a lot of helpful information compacted into the book that I plan to refer to as I move forward. In addition, the author’s positive attitude about writing is refreshing.
There was a lot of helpful information compacted into the book that I plan to refer to as I move forward. In addition, the author’s positive attitude about writing is refreshing.
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