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You: The Story: A Writer's Guide to Craft Through Memory
The nonfiction debut by #1 New York Times bestselling and Carnegie Medal-winning author Ruta Sepetys.
Life is story in motion. Each day, you add to your story, revise it, and view it from a different angle. You erase things. Tear pages out. And sometimes, in hindsight, wish you could put them back. A day is a story. A year is a story. A life is a story.
You are a story.
#1 New York Times bestselling author Ruta Sepetys is known for creating vivid characters and harrowing plots. After five award-winning works of historical fiction and countless hours of meticulous research, she can affirm that the secret to strong writing is embedded within your life experience.
You: The Story is a powerful how-to book for aspiring writers that encourages you to look inward and excavate your own memories in order to discover the authentic voices and compelling details that are waiting to be put on the page. Masterfully weaving in humorous and heartfelt stories from her own life that illustrate an aspect of the craft of writing (such as plot, character development, or dialogue), Sepetys then inspires readers with a series of writing prompts and exercises.
Perfect for fans of Burn After Writing and Bird by Bird, You: The Story awakens the emerging writer and reveals that with some reflection, curiosity, and courage, you have a story to tell.
Life is story in motion. Each day, you add to your story, revise it, and view it from a different angle. You erase things. Tear pages out. And sometimes, in hindsight, wish you could put them back. A day is a story. A year is a story. A life is a story.
You are a story.
#1 New York Times bestselling author Ruta Sepetys is known for creating vivid characters and harrowing plots. After five award-winning works of historical fiction and countless hours of meticulous research, she can affirm that the secret to strong writing is embedded within your life experience.
You: The Story is a powerful how-to book for aspiring writers that encourages you to look inward and excavate your own memories in order to discover the authentic voices and compelling details that are waiting to be put on the page. Masterfully weaving in humorous and heartfelt stories from her own life that illustrate an aspect of the craft of writing (such as plot, character development, or dialogue), Sepetys then inspires readers with a series of writing prompts and exercises.
Perfect for fans of Burn After Writing and Bird by Bird, You: The Story awakens the emerging writer and reveals that with some reflection, curiosity, and courage, you have a story to tell.
224 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2023
194 people are currently reading
14833 people want to read
About the author
Ruta Sepetys
16 books25.1k followers#1 New York Times Bestselling Author and Winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Ruta Sepetys was born and raised in Michigan in a family of artists, readers, and music lovers. The daughter of a refugee, Ruta is drawn to underrepresented stories of strength through struggle and hopes to give voice to those who weren't able to tell their story. Her award-winning historical novels are published in over sixty countries and have received over forty literary prizes.
For more information:
https://www.rutasepetys.com
https://www.facebook.com/rutasepetys
https://www.instagram.com/rutasepetys...
https://www.twitter.com/rutasepetys
Ruta Sepetys was born and raised in Michigan in a family of artists, readers, and music lovers. The daughter of a refugee, Ruta is drawn to underrepresented stories of strength through struggle and hopes to give voice to those who weren't able to tell their story. Her award-winning historical novels are published in over sixty countries and have received over forty literary prizes.
For more information:
https://www.rutasepetys.com
https://www.facebook.com/rutasepetys
https://www.instagram.com/rutasepetys...
https://www.twitter.com/rutasepetys
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews
October 27, 2023
i almost never read non-fiction and i have absolutely no interest in being a writer; so why, you may ask, did i read this?
its because RS has written some of the most meaningful books and i know that any insight into how she has crafted such memorable and touching stories would make me appreciate them even more.
so while the content of this book cant be directly applied to me, i did find RSs guidance and anecdotes interesting. her novels already prove she is a passionate writer, but this “how to” book demonstrates how she became one. so this felt like a fun, little behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart of one of my favourite authors.
↠ 4 stars
its because RS has written some of the most meaningful books and i know that any insight into how she has crafted such memorable and touching stories would make me appreciate them even more.
so while the content of this book cant be directly applied to me, i did find RSs guidance and anecdotes interesting. her novels already prove she is a passionate writer, but this “how to” book demonstrates how she became one. so this felt like a fun, little behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart of one of my favourite authors.
↠ 4 stars
May 21, 2023
This is a writer must read. So much rich advice in these pages that I can’t wait to apply to my process.
May 25, 2023
"Yes, writing takes courage. And time. But memories are like leaves. They fade, fall, and scatter beneath the slightest sigh of wind. So for now, think of ways to press them between wax paper and preserve them for one quiet day in the future. And on that day, as you retrieve your memories, may you rediscover and celebrate the glorious combination of details that not only make you beautiful, but also make you uniquely YOU."
An absolute must read for writers everywhere.
Ruta Sepetys' You: The Story: A Writer's Guide to Craft Through Memory was one of my most anticipated books of 2023, and it did not disappoint.
From the very start, I was hooked.
Writing is one of my favorite hobbies. It has been ever since I was in grade school. So, when I heard about Sepetys upcoming nonfiction book? It was an instant pre-order. (And since I was pre-ordering from Parnassus, I went ahead and requested that my copy be personalized/signed by the author.)
There are so many great quotes, some of which I typed in my status updates, and the advice she gave for the different subjects are so memorable, especially ones that I hadn't come across before until now.
In fact, as someone who does not like writing in her books, I went ahead and ordered translucent post-it notes, so I could stick them in places to either underline or jot down my thoughts and ideas. I had my notebook beside me, ready to tackle down some of the writing prompts Sepetys provided at the end of each section.
Of course, I haven't completed all the prompts she gave (and same said about the "Stories to Uncover and Discover"), but that gives me the perfect excuse to read it again - except, this time, I'll be buddy-reading it with my mom.
The audiobook, read by the author herself, was perfection. Music not only played before each new subject, but it also set the tone. And Sepetys herself was a lovely narrator; her performance never once was lacking. I loved following along with my physical copy, marking and tabbing in the spots that spoke to me.
All in all, I loved everything about You: The Story.
"But with practice and exploration, you'll eventually find a style that feels so comfortable and resonant for you to write in, that you'll return to it again and again. It may take years. Decades. You may have to throw things out and start again. But it's worth it. Because along the way, you'll find your reason for writing; you'll find your purpose. You'll find your voice."
An absolute must read for writers everywhere.
Ruta Sepetys' You: The Story: A Writer's Guide to Craft Through Memory was one of my most anticipated books of 2023, and it did not disappoint.
From the very start, I was hooked.
Writing is one of my favorite hobbies. It has been ever since I was in grade school. So, when I heard about Sepetys upcoming nonfiction book? It was an instant pre-order. (And since I was pre-ordering from Parnassus, I went ahead and requested that my copy be personalized/signed by the author.)
There are so many great quotes, some of which I typed in my status updates, and the advice she gave for the different subjects are so memorable, especially ones that I hadn't come across before until now.
In fact, as someone who does not like writing in her books, I went ahead and ordered translucent post-it notes, so I could stick them in places to either underline or jot down my thoughts and ideas. I had my notebook beside me, ready to tackle down some of the writing prompts Sepetys provided at the end of each section.
Of course, I haven't completed all the prompts she gave (and same said about the "Stories to Uncover and Discover"), but that gives me the perfect excuse to read it again - except, this time, I'll be buddy-reading it with my mom.
The audiobook, read by the author herself, was perfection. Music not only played before each new subject, but it also set the tone. And Sepetys herself was a lovely narrator; her performance never once was lacking. I loved following along with my physical copy, marking and tabbing in the spots that spoke to me.
All in all, I loved everything about You: The Story.
"But with practice and exploration, you'll eventually find a style that feels so comfortable and resonant for you to write in, that you'll return to it again and again. It may take years. Decades. You may have to throw things out and start again. But it's worth it. Because along the way, you'll find your reason for writing; you'll find your purpose. You'll find your voice."
August 22, 2025
This book is a great instructive and inspiring guide for storytellers that want direction to write their own stories. This publication is a HOW TO book for aspiring writers that encourages you to look inward and excavate memories to discover the authentic voices and compelling details that are waiting to be written for an audience.
The author tells of how she wove in humorous and heartfelt stories from her life that illustrate an aspect of the craft of writing (such as plot, character development, or dialogue). Sepetys then inspires readers with a series of writing prompts and exercises.
The author tells of how she wove in humorous and heartfelt stories from her life that illustrate an aspect of the craft of writing (such as plot, character development, or dialogue). Sepetys then inspires readers with a series of writing prompts and exercises.
January 1, 2023
Thoughtful and thought provoking, this guide to writing will inspire your craft.
I wanted to get back into writing, and I think this was the perfect book to give me the push I needed.
I wanted to get back into writing, and I think this was the perfect book to give me the push I needed.
August 6, 2023
This was SO good and I strongly recommend if you’re a writer (or if you just want a better way of seeing the world around you). We’re all surrounded by stories and this was a wonderful reminder of that.
February 14, 2024
I won this as a goodreads giveaway. Thank you Penguin Random House for the opportunity to read this book.
This book is a good inspiration for people who want to take up writing, but do it in their own style.
Sepetys talks about trial and error and how revision is important after the first draft is created.
What I found most helpful, is having a writing team. They will help keep you going and be truthful as to where the story is going, especially if there are parts that need to be reworked.
This book will stir up a whole range of emotions, but keep with it till it’s completion.
This book is a good inspiration for people who want to take up writing, but do it in their own style.
Sepetys talks about trial and error and how revision is important after the first draft is created.
What I found most helpful, is having a writing team. They will help keep you going and be truthful as to where the story is going, especially if there are parts that need to be reworked.
This book will stir up a whole range of emotions, but keep with it till it’s completion.
May 7, 2025
"Very few of us have a howling pen that writes pure brilliance. No. Most of us scale walls of fear and stumble in the wrong shoes while trying to find our way.... We make plans but lose our nerve. We sit on the edge, dangling our feet but not daring to jump. But one day, we come to realize that creativity and imagination are forms of courage. When embraced, creativity and imagination kick fear out of the ring.
Yes, there will be challenge. There will be revelation and transformation. That's the hero's journey.
That is courage. That is memory. That is story.
So take a breath and do it.
Jump."
✏️ Review ✏️
You: The Story is an inspirational treasure trove for anyone wanting to improve, deepen, or energize their writing experience (at least for me it was). People often say that the best way to master a craft is to learn from those with experience in that craft. You: The Story is one such opportunity.
Drawing from her years of experience in the writing profession, #1 New York Times bestselling author Ruta Sepetys provides a wealth of techniques, tips, information, and examples on how to better construct many elements of storytelling. From plot, style, structure, voice, and so much more, Sepetys guides and instructs writers how to employ and tap into the full potential of these important writing elements.
While providing these many helpful techniques, Sepetys beckons the reader to evaluate his/her own life — past and present — to invoke depth, personality, and authenticity to each and every element of a story's construction. Each and every day we live holds the inspiration for a thousand different stories, if only we took the time to examine our lives from a different perspective or just dig a little deeper into what we call the "mundane." Dig through the treasure house of your past: there you will find what makes you you — you are a story.
If anything, this book has inspired and challenged me to write, write, write, write, write — with authenticity, depth, purpose, and determination. I gleaned so much writing inspiration by going through this book. And I fully intend to visit You: The Story again and again.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The many practical techniques, tips, and advice on improving one's writing.
• The clear and engaging writing style with which Sepetys presents her instructive sections and subsequent examples.
• The organization of all the different sections.
• The many writing prompts and exercises included throughout.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The sexual content and vulgar language.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3/5)
~Fundamentals {Nonfiction Version}: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📑 Didactics: 4/5
— 📝 Writing: 4/5
— 👀 Engagement: 3.5/5
— 🧩 Clarity: 4/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 2/5
• Several uses of the s-word; some uses of "cr*p"; two uses of "a**"; one use of "h*ll."
— ⚔️ Violence: 0/5
— ⚠️ Sexual: 2/5
• There is one rather descriptive scene involving the actions of a male stripper (p. 20-23 of the 2023 hardcover Viking edition; or for other editions in the last of the "Conflict Layers" section located in the "Plot" chapter).
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Content note: The author briefly discusses the abilities of her "friends with supernatural occupations." The author describes how the "medium" allowed her to supposedly communicate with her deceased grandmother.
• A note about my rating: I would have given You: The Story a solid four stars. However, due to the sexual content and the inclusion of vulgar language, I'm subtracting one star to bring my rating down to three stars.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (Too many to put here.)
Yes, there will be challenge. There will be revelation and transformation. That's the hero's journey.
That is courage. That is memory. That is story.
So take a breath and do it.
Jump."
✏️ Review ✏️
You: The Story is an inspirational treasure trove for anyone wanting to improve, deepen, or energize their writing experience (at least for me it was). People often say that the best way to master a craft is to learn from those with experience in that craft. You: The Story is one such opportunity.
Drawing from her years of experience in the writing profession, #1 New York Times bestselling author Ruta Sepetys provides a wealth of techniques, tips, information, and examples on how to better construct many elements of storytelling. From plot, style, structure, voice, and so much more, Sepetys guides and instructs writers how to employ and tap into the full potential of these important writing elements.
While providing these many helpful techniques, Sepetys beckons the reader to evaluate his/her own life — past and present — to invoke depth, personality, and authenticity to each and every element of a story's construction. Each and every day we live holds the inspiration for a thousand different stories, if only we took the time to examine our lives from a different perspective or just dig a little deeper into what we call the "mundane." Dig through the treasure house of your past: there you will find what makes you you — you are a story.
"Stories live and breathe everywhere around us.
Your house is full of items and each item contains a story.
Your life is full of happenings and each one is wrapped in story."
If anything, this book has inspired and challenged me to write, write, write, write, write — with authenticity, depth, purpose, and determination. I gleaned so much writing inspiration by going through this book. And I fully intend to visit You: The Story again and again.
"[A]s you retrieve your memories, may you rediscover and celebrate the glorious combination of details that not only make you beautiful, but also make you uniquely YOU.
Your story."
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📊 A Quick Overview 📊
👍🏼 What I Liked:
• The many practical techniques, tips, and advice on improving one's writing.
• The clear and engaging writing style with which Sepetys presents her instructive sections and subsequent examples.
• The organization of all the different sections.
• The many writing prompts and exercises included throughout.
👎🏼 What I Did Not Like:
• The sexual content and vulgar language.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📖 BOOK BREAKDOWN 📖 (Overall: 3/5)
~Fundamentals {Nonfiction Version}: (1=worst; 5=best)
— 📑 Didactics: 4/5
— 📝 Writing: 4/5
— 👀 Engagement: 3.5/5
— 🧩 Clarity: 4/5
~Content: (0=none; 1=least; 5=most)
— 🤬 Language: 2/5
• Several uses of the s-word; some uses of "cr*p"; two uses of "a**"; one use of "h*ll."
— ⚔️ Violence: 0/5
— ⚠️ Sexual: 2/5
• There is one rather descriptive scene involving the actions of a male stripper (p. 20-23 of the 2023 hardcover Viking edition; or for other editions in the last of the "Conflict Layers" section located in the "Plot" chapter).
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
📣 Random Comments 📣
• Content note: The author briefly discusses the abilities of her "friends with supernatural occupations." The author describes how the "medium" allowed her to supposedly communicate with her deceased grandmother.
• A note about my rating: I would have given You: The Story a solid four stars. However, due to the sexual content and the inclusion of vulgar language, I'm subtracting one star to bring my rating down to three stars.
📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚📚
💬 Favorite Quotes 💬
• (Too many to put here.)
November 16, 2022
Wouldn't you want to take writing advice and help from someone who does it so well? Of course! It's why Sepetys' new book, a departure from her historical fiction, STILL has all of her voice but also now her RANGE as a writer because she's talking directly to the reader: telling us about her life and how it matters when she writes her stories and how it should matter to you when you write YOUR story. It's uplifting and lighthearted even if the topics she weaves in and out of are not always especially when it comes to disappointment or rejection (or the awkward superlative she won during HS graduation).
The book is easy to follow and has natural breaks for each focus (plot, character, etc.) but then she also throws in factoids and questions-- so many questions-- that you're constantly pausing to answer her as if she's talking to you. This easy flow works so well for the unconfident writer in all of us.
However does she do it?
Memorable stories include Ten Ten and her (Snow) and her poop cocoon in addition, I'll always feel bad thinking about her when she has to fly. And that cover and opening lines about the tree!
Quotes from ARC:
"When did the diary die? Was it suffocated with a pillow when I wasn't looking? A friend informed me that the journal has replaced the diary. Impossible!"
"Ann Patchett once said, 'Why is it that we understand playing the cello will require work, but we attribute writing to the magic of inspiration?'"
"How are you framing your memories and your personal stories?"
"Fast forward many years. The older I get, the more I interrogate my perspectives, both past and present. My prison badge and the memory of Ten-Ten hang in my office. Last night it rained, I made sure the doors were locked. I still haven't run a 5K"
The book is easy to follow and has natural breaks for each focus (plot, character, etc.) but then she also throws in factoids and questions-- so many questions-- that you're constantly pausing to answer her as if she's talking to you. This easy flow works so well for the unconfident writer in all of us.
However does she do it?
Memorable stories include Ten Ten and her (Snow) and her poop cocoon in addition, I'll always feel bad thinking about her when she has to fly. And that cover and opening lines about the tree!
Quotes from ARC:
"When did the diary die? Was it suffocated with a pillow when I wasn't looking? A friend informed me that the journal has replaced the diary. Impossible!"
"Ann Patchett once said, 'Why is it that we understand playing the cello will require work, but we attribute writing to the magic of inspiration?'"
"How are you framing your memories and your personal stories?"
"Fast forward many years. The older I get, the more I interrogate my perspectives, both past and present. My prison badge and the memory of Ten-Ten hang in my office. Last night it rained, I made sure the doors were locked. I still haven't run a 5K"
September 6, 2023
Тази книга е перфектният наръчник за бъдещи писатели. Всички знаят колко обичам Рута Сепетис и след като имах щастието да си поговоря с нея и на живо, прочитът на тази книга бе съ��сем различен.
Вече знам каква е нейната философия за писането и тя я описва на страниците на тази книга по перфектен начин. Някои от нещата, които е включила вътре, ни ги разказа при посещението си в България - за това, че е работила дълги години в музикалния бизнес, от къде черпи вдъхновение за своите герои, колко време отделя за проучванията си за всяка една история, как създава автентични диалози и ситуации.
Рута и нейните истории са вдъхновяващи и чрез „You: The story” тя се опитва да помогне на бъдещите писатели с няколко полезни съвета, разбира се, през нейната призма и опит.
На всички, които искат да се занимават с писане или просто им е интересно как един писател изгражда историите си, препоръчвам това четиво.
Вече знам каква е нейната философия за писането и тя я описва на страниците на тази книга по перфектен начин. Някои от нещата, които е включила вътре, ни ги разказа при посещението си в България - за това, че е работила дълги години в музикалния бизнес, от къде черпи вдъхновение за своите герои, колко време отделя за проучванията си за всяка една история, как създава автентични диалози и ситуации.
Рута и нейните истории са вдъхновяващи и чрез „You: The story” тя се опитва да помогне на бъдещите писатели с няколко полезни съвета, разбира се, през нейната призма и опит.
На всички, които искат да се занимават с писане или просто им е интересно как един писател изгражда историите си, препоръчвам това четиво.
November 11, 2024
Labai gražiai ir įtraukiančiai parašyta. Mėgavaus kiekvienu puslapiu ir vėl užsimaniau kažką parašinėti, tad, manau - knyga savo misiją atlieka. Gausu autorės gyvenimo detalių, praktinių užduočių, tikrai ne ta knyga, kurioje rasit vien sausą teoriją.
September 17, 2023
Part writing guide and part memoir, this powerful book goes beyond crafting narratives to dig into the essence of storytelling as a human experience. The author's novels have shed light on underrepresented histories, and through her storytelling, she explains that her goal has been to bring these hidden narratives to light. She emphasizes that everyone has a story to tell, whether in a novel, a memoir, or simply a personal reflection on one's life. Her approach to writing is accessible and inclusive. She encourages readers to identify the stories in their own lives and provides tools and frameworks to help them do that. The book is structured with chapters on various aspects of storytelling, such as perspective, dialogue, research, plot, and character development. Each chapter includes a recap, writing exercises, and questions to guide readers' writing journey.
The author emphasizes that authentic emotions are at the heart of compelling storytelling. She encourages readers to trust their intuition and recognize the miraculous nature of their own experiences. This isn't just a book for writers; the author invites readers to explore their own narratives, find inspiration in their memories, and embrace the power of storytelling to connect with others. The book is a testament to the belief that everyone has a unique and valuable story to share with the world.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at: https://shows.acast.com/moms-dont-hav...
The author emphasizes that authentic emotions are at the heart of compelling storytelling. She encourages readers to trust their intuition and recognize the miraculous nature of their own experiences. This isn't just a book for writers; the author invites readers to explore their own narratives, find inspiration in their memories, and embrace the power of storytelling to connect with others. The book is a testament to the belief that everyone has a unique and valuable story to share with the world.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at: https://shows.acast.com/moms-dont-hav...
April 6, 2024
A YA nonfiction how-to guide for young writers.
✍️
In this book young adults will learn how to craft a story from beginning to end while @rutasepetysauthor shares stories from her own life and memories. Everything from plot to characterization to voice to dialogue is covered in this title.
📝
This is a masterful guide for teens to learn the craft of writing, while also making it humorous and fun to learn from. The audiobook was read by the author, who did a fabulous job. Thank you @librofm for the ALC and @starr_librarian for recommending it for my 24 to read in 2024!
I see the value in a title like this, but I just was not the target audience as an adult who has no interest in learning to write 😂
✍️
In this book young adults will learn how to craft a story from beginning to end while @rutasepetysauthor shares stories from her own life and memories. Everything from plot to characterization to voice to dialogue is covered in this title.
📝
This is a masterful guide for teens to learn the craft of writing, while also making it humorous and fun to learn from. The audiobook was read by the author, who did a fabulous job. Thank you @librofm for the ALC and @starr_librarian for recommending it for my 24 to read in 2024!
I see the value in a title like this, but I just was not the target audience as an adult who has no interest in learning to write 😂
Read
August 30, 2025Прекратявам четенето на стр. 180.
Книгата е буквално това, което казва заглавието - наръчник за хора, които нямат идеи за фикшън, но искат да напишат нещо и Рута насърчава да измислят история от собствените си спомени и изживявания.
Честно казано, ако аз не мога да измисля сам история от собствената си история, по-добре въобще да не се замислям за писане.
Книгата е буквално това, което казва заглавието - наръчник за хора, които нямат идеи за фикшън, но искат да напишат нещо и Рута насърчава да измислят история от собствените си спомени и изживявания.
Честно казано, ако аз не мога да измисля сам история от собствената си история, по-добре въобще да не се замислям за писане.
September 2, 2025
“Jā, lai rakstītu, ir vajadzīga drosme. Un laiks. Bet atmiņas ir kā lapas koku zaros. Tās izbālē, krīt un pajūk uz visām pusēm visvieglākajā vēja pūsmā. Tāpēc pašlaik tavs uzdevums ir izdomāt veidus, kā tās notvert starp pergamenta loksnēm un saglabāt līdz kādai klusai dienai kaut kad nākotnē.”
Sarunāts! ♥
Sarunāts! ♥
February 17, 2025
is that...a nonfiction book? that CHRISTINE read?? oh my goodness! crazy stuff!!!
February 4, 2023
Ruta Sepetys never fails to warm my heart and teach me something new in every book she writes. This writing craft book is no different! The book is split into easily digestible sections with short chapters, section recaps, and brainstorming ideas. She also weaves in funny and heartwarming anecdotes from her exciting life to teach writing principles, which makes this an enjoyable, easy, and fast read. I will say that this book is simplistic, which perfectly appeals to teen writers getting their feet wet in writing. But it's no less heartfelt or important. Ruta Sepetys really inspired me to think about my memories and emotion in creating stories that connect me to other people.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Content: 4
Inspiration/Value: 4
Overall: 4
Thank you, Penguin Teen, for the arc!
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Content: 4
Inspiration/Value: 4
Overall: 4
Thank you, Penguin Teen, for the arc!
July 19, 2023
I desire to try and write a book, a novel which would reflect my life and experience. But my desire dies there because I don't know how to turn my experience into a story. Good writers are also active readers, or so I heard, so I read instead as I push off my desire for another day. I have read several of Ruta Sepetys books and have enjoyed them a lot. So imagine my delight when I saw she wrote a book about writing, and not just any book about writing but how to take your own experiences and use them as fuel for writing your own story. Exactly the question I wanted answered and written by an author I enjoy! Sometimes you stumble across the right book at the right time. That is what this book was for me.
Sepetys book had flavors and rhythm of Stephen King's book "On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft". Both Sepetys and King teach the reader about how to write by showing, not telling. I appreciated how Sepetys' book was not a bit list of inspirational quotes or facts to follow, but instead she used her own life, her own experiences and memories, and weaved them into stories within each chapter.
The overall structure and form of the book is organized into topics about writing: plot, character development, voice, perspective, setting, dialogue, research, revision and input. But Sepetys expounds on each of those elements by weaving together her own memories in order to show the reader how to write a story.
I found myself getting lost in the story, enjoying the peek into Sepetys' life and experiences. Her book gave me hope and encouragement to sit down and write my own story. Helpful tidbits is at the end of each chapter she gives you a recap in bullet point form of the elements of writing she showed you from that chapter. This section will be a helpful to reference later when I want to go back and remember elements she taught. She also ends each section with writing prompts to help you practice the aspect she taught on that chapter.
Content Considerations for the homeschool mom (since I homeschool and sometimes my mom friends read my reviews), although I immensely enjoyed this book and am motivated to now share my own story, I will give the heads up for the mom who might want to share this book with their eager child, Sepetys writes to the adult reader, as such some of her examples are from her life as a grown adult and living in the world. Although tastefully done and not inappropriate, there might be a passing mention of certain topics here or there of things that you wouldn't normally find in a child's book (mention of drinking, bars, drunkenness, sleeping with men.) That said I myself would let my teenage children read this book, if they were interested in the become a writer, because we have already discussed these adult things together as a family and they would know how to receive it in context.
Sepetys book had flavors and rhythm of Stephen King's book "On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft". Both Sepetys and King teach the reader about how to write by showing, not telling. I appreciated how Sepetys' book was not a bit list of inspirational quotes or facts to follow, but instead she used her own life, her own experiences and memories, and weaved them into stories within each chapter.
The overall structure and form of the book is organized into topics about writing: plot, character development, voice, perspective, setting, dialogue, research, revision and input. But Sepetys expounds on each of those elements by weaving together her own memories in order to show the reader how to write a story.
I found myself getting lost in the story, enjoying the peek into Sepetys' life and experiences. Her book gave me hope and encouragement to sit down and write my own story. Helpful tidbits is at the end of each chapter she gives you a recap in bullet point form of the elements of writing she showed you from that chapter. This section will be a helpful to reference later when I want to go back and remember elements she taught. She also ends each section with writing prompts to help you practice the aspect she taught on that chapter.
Content Considerations for the homeschool mom (since I homeschool and sometimes my mom friends read my reviews), although I immensely enjoyed this book and am motivated to now share my own story, I will give the heads up for the mom who might want to share this book with their eager child, Sepetys writes to the adult reader, as such some of her examples are from her life as a grown adult and living in the world. Although tastefully done and not inappropriate, there might be a passing mention of certain topics here or there of things that you wouldn't normally find in a child's book (mention of drinking, bars, drunkenness, sleeping with men.) That said I myself would let my teenage children read this book, if they were interested in the become a writer, because we have already discussed these adult things together as a family and they would know how to receive it in context.
February 4, 2024
Part memoir, part writing instruction. Sepetys uses examples of well-crafted stories from her own life to show aspiring writers how to handle setting, dialogue, research, character development and other aspects which are crucial to excellent fiction writing.
Highlights: the description of her father’s commercial art agency; her lunch with “mythic man”, a music exec who might have been Clive Davis or David Geffen (except for maybe the hair.) Using these tactics (and talent) even simple house-hunting with her mother can deliver a delightful dose of flash fiction.
Sepetys has a pleasant voice; sincere and willing to help. She’s the writing coach you hope to get when you sign up for adult school. She adds prompts so that you can begin pursue your writing dreams on your own. And she gives reassuring advice on how to accept criticism of your work. Spoiler alert: it’s a gift!
Her tone carries nicely in an audiobook, with the overall theme of mining YOU, boo: your memories, your voice, your perspective. She encourages you to find that book inside you. It’s there somewhere, you just have to remember it.
I have yet to read any of Ruta’s novels but plan now to add them to my TBR: I’m now interested to see how she practices what she preaches.
Highlights: the description of her father’s commercial art agency; her lunch with “mythic man”, a music exec who might have been Clive Davis or David Geffen (except for maybe the hair.) Using these tactics (and talent) even simple house-hunting with her mother can deliver a delightful dose of flash fiction.
Sepetys has a pleasant voice; sincere and willing to help. She’s the writing coach you hope to get when you sign up for adult school. She adds prompts so that you can begin pursue your writing dreams on your own. And she gives reassuring advice on how to accept criticism of your work. Spoiler alert: it’s a gift!
Her tone carries nicely in an audiobook, with the overall theme of mining YOU, boo: your memories, your voice, your perspective. She encourages you to find that book inside you. It’s there somewhere, you just have to remember it.
I have yet to read any of Ruta’s novels but plan now to add them to my TBR: I’m now interested to see how she practices what she preaches.
February 23, 2024
Ruta Sepetys is just wonderful! I've read all of her novels and in each one was floored by the stories that highlight lesser known historical events.
I consumed this book in three ways- I listened on audible, I bought a copy to reference, and I had the pleasure of attending an event where Ruta Sepetys talked about this book and shared her personal stories, experience, and ideas about writing.
The reading was a wonderful event and when she signed my book at the end of the event she was so kind and genuine. She encouraged me to be brave and write myself!
If you want to listen to the book- I definitely recommend it because it's the author reading and she really gives a lot of extra meaning and positive energy with her tone of voice.
Her written and vocal voice plus her presence just wonderful.
She's the kind of person I would love to be friends with, she'd never get me off her couch!
This guide is both practical and inspirational, especially if you are interested in writing a memoir or historical fiction. Highly recommend!
I consumed this book in three ways- I listened on audible, I bought a copy to reference, and I had the pleasure of attending an event where Ruta Sepetys talked about this book and shared her personal stories, experience, and ideas about writing.
The reading was a wonderful event and when she signed my book at the end of the event she was so kind and genuine. She encouraged me to be brave and write myself!
If you want to listen to the book- I definitely recommend it because it's the author reading and she really gives a lot of extra meaning and positive energy with her tone of voice.
Her written and vocal voice plus her presence just wonderful.
She's the kind of person I would love to be friends with, she'd never get me off her couch!
This guide is both practical and inspirational, especially if you are interested in writing a memoir or historical fiction. Highly recommend!
June 19, 2023
Thank you to Penguin Teen for a physical ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
So proud of myself for reading this with my eyes.
Ruta always has a way with words. Whether that's historical fiction or non-fiction. This book is packed with advice on how to craft your story and give the characters the opportunity for maximum emotional damage. As someone who has loved all of Ruta's works, she definitely knows what she's doing when it comes to writing historical fiction and creating characters. I always learn something from her books, and this was no different.
You: The Story is part writing guide, part random facts, and part story of Ruta's life and experiences. I definitely would recommend this one to fiction writers and will be passing this one along to a fellow writer!
So proud of myself for reading this with my eyes.
Ruta always has a way with words. Whether that's historical fiction or non-fiction. This book is packed with advice on how to craft your story and give the characters the opportunity for maximum emotional damage. As someone who has loved all of Ruta's works, she definitely knows what she's doing when it comes to writing historical fiction and creating characters. I always learn something from her books, and this was no different.
You: The Story is part writing guide, part random facts, and part story of Ruta's life and experiences. I definitely would recommend this one to fiction writers and will be passing this one along to a fellow writer!
April 30, 2024
after reading all 5 of her historical novels, it is refreshing to finally get to this, her first non fiction book about writing and expressing our innermost selves.
there are so many things you can learn from this book- how to write a short story using 10 bullet point sentences or words from the same letter, or how to describe abstract ideas like how does a month feel? how do you verbally describe a color?
it has well researched and thought out prompts that invokes every reader to pause and answer them and tells us how the stories of others can intersect with ours. Lessons on active listening, immersive settings, character development, creating conflict, finding your authentic voice, changing how we see failure and there are also summarized recaps per chapter.
my favorite parts are the “Stories to uncover and discover” it unleashed my inner marites and you can’t not Google them.
there are so many things you can learn from this book- how to write a short story using 10 bullet point sentences or words from the same letter, or how to describe abstract ideas like how does a month feel? how do you verbally describe a color?
it has well researched and thought out prompts that invokes every reader to pause and answer them and tells us how the stories of others can intersect with ours. Lessons on active listening, immersive settings, character development, creating conflict, finding your authentic voice, changing how we see failure and there are also summarized recaps per chapter.
my favorite parts are the “Stories to uncover and discover” it unleashed my inner marites and you can’t not Google them.
May 22, 2023
I had the opportunity to meet Ruta Sepetys last week and I couldn’t be more grateful. She was amazing and inspiring and quite possibly my favorite author (it’s hard to choose just one, but wow she is incredible!). Her books are so so good. She finds hidden history and tells a story, helping to bring light to them. This book is different. It tells the story on how to be a writer, how to start and continue the process. All her books are inspiring and this one is no different. I want to be a writer because of her, I want to write historical fiction because of her. This book is a great starting place, let’s see where I’ll go from here!
June 23, 2023
Lovely fast read about writing and the writing life. It's part memoir, part writing guide, with lots of prompts and lists and examples to fuel your own writing. I'm just a tiny bit confused about the target audience. Some sections feel very adult (not in an inappropriate way, just in a "these are the reflections of someone in middle age" kind of way), while other sections are very tailored to a teen audience. Not sure who's going to read this more: student writers or teachers of student writers. Nevertheless, I was able to grab a few ideas for future writing and teaching, so I consider that a success!
November 9, 2023
Like many avid readers, I believe I have a great story that would make a great novel. I also believe I lack the skills to write that story! While reading this book alone will not make anyone a better writer, it does a great job of outlining the many steps that are necessary to achieve any sense of completion, let alone success. The author is encouraging as she details the many aspects of writing that can make your story more compelling. Of course, now it is up to me to actually do the hard thing, that is, WRITE!
June 25, 2024
I would likely read anything by Ruta Sepetys and also am a sucker for an author talking about writing so this was a win going in. What made it better was it was layered with Ruta’s personal stories which are crazy and so good and left saying to my sister… how do we not have any crazy connections like these authors :)
I loved how she leaned into your memory to help craft your stories. It was a great read and would recommend to anyone especially a teen wanting to write… as it is filled with writing prompts and questions and research.
I loved how she leaned into your memory to help craft your stories. It was a great read and would recommend to anyone especially a teen wanting to write… as it is filled with writing prompts and questions and research.
June 7, 2023
a great guide to using memories to drive your writing. would recommend if you want to be a writer. i *someday* want to write a book so i will definitely revisit this. a plus—the audiobook is narrated by the author. i am a fan of her historical fiction books and consider her one of my favorite authors, so i’m glad i got to learn more about how she uses the writing process!
August 8, 2023
My writer's block has been brutal lately, and I think this book is going to be what helps get me out of it. "You: The Story" is the perfect combination of poignant anecdotes from throughout Ruta Sepetys' life and guidance on how to use your own memories as the building blocks for good stories. Sepetys is one of my all-time favorite authors, and this guide to writing just further cements why <3
June 18, 2023
I have no desire to write my own story but I thoroughly enjoyed hearing bits and snippets of Ruta's story and how she became a writer with such descriptive scene building and character driven narratives.
March 23, 2024
I really liked it. I didn't know of Ruta, I bought the book because I liked the cover and I'm trying to write a book. I liked her style and her stories. I will read one of her historical fiction books :)
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