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Write It All Down: How to Put Your Life on the Page
Tackle the challenges of memoir writing and share your story in this Quick Reads edition of Write It All Down.
'Cathy is the person who first told me to write about my mental health when I was nervous to do so. She is a great writer herself and this is brilliant.' - Matt Haig, author of Reasons to Stay Alive
Why do we want to write and what stops us? How do we fight the worry that no-one will care what we have to say? What can we do to overcome the obstacles in our way?
Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Rentzenbrink shows you how to tackle all this and more in Write It All Down, a guide to putting your life on the page. Complete with a compendium of advice from amazing writers such as Dolly Alderton, Adam Kay and Candice Carty-Williams, this book is here to help you discover the pleasure and solace to be found in writing; the profound satisfaction of wrestling a story onto a page and seeing the events of your life transformed through the experience of writing a memoir.
Perfect for seasoned writers as well as writing amateurs and everyone in between, this helpful handbook will steer you through the philosophical and practical challenges of writing, whether you're struggling with writers block or worrying what people will say. Intertwined with reflections and exercises, Write It All Down is at once an intimate conversation and an invitation to share your story.
'Cathy is the person who first told me to write about my mental health when I was nervous to do so. She is a great writer herself and this is brilliant.' - Matt Haig, author of Reasons to Stay Alive
Why do we want to write and what stops us? How do we fight the worry that no-one will care what we have to say? What can we do to overcome the obstacles in our way?
Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Rentzenbrink shows you how to tackle all this and more in Write It All Down, a guide to putting your life on the page. Complete with a compendium of advice from amazing writers such as Dolly Alderton, Adam Kay and Candice Carty-Williams, this book is here to help you discover the pleasure and solace to be found in writing; the profound satisfaction of wrestling a story onto a page and seeing the events of your life transformed through the experience of writing a memoir.
Perfect for seasoned writers as well as writing amateurs and everyone in between, this helpful handbook will steer you through the philosophical and practical challenges of writing, whether you're struggling with writers block or worrying what people will say. Intertwined with reflections and exercises, Write It All Down is at once an intimate conversation and an invitation to share your story.
142 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2022
116 people are currently reading
1317 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Rentzenbrink
14 books320 followersCathy Rentzenbrink grew up in Yorkshire and now lives in London. A former Waterstones bookseller, she is now Project Director of the charity Quick Reads and Associate Editor of The Bookseller magazine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
December 13, 2021
This book is at its core all about managing procrastination. I’m a black belt in procrastination—although I prefer the violin to the ukulele—so when the author says that her ‘work feels like 95 per cent struggle with self-doubt’ (and alcohol) or how she would believe that if only she had a shed, the right desk, was in the woods, whatever, then she’d be able to get on and write her book, it feels like the book was written just for me.
If only I’d had this book when I first started writing my own memoir, maybe it would be finished by now? It’s always quicker to learn from someone else’s mistakes rather than your own. Even so, there were some great little nuggets in the book that I’ll be taking away with me. I’ll definitely be browsing on Amazon soon for the right egg timer.
But then, instead of reading books, writing reviews, or looking for egg timers, perhaps I should just get on and do some writing!
If only I’d had this book when I first started writing my own memoir, maybe it would be finished by now? It’s always quicker to learn from someone else’s mistakes rather than your own. Even so, there were some great little nuggets in the book that I’ll be taking away with me. I’ll definitely be browsing on Amazon soon for the right egg timer.
But then, instead of reading books, writing reviews, or looking for egg timers, perhaps I should just get on and do some writing!
November 11, 2021
Anyone whose read any of Cathy’s books knows you don’t just stop at one. Out of her five published works (including this one), I have read four and own - but yet to read - the other one. Her talent stretched across memoir, grief and heartache, family, books, work, memories, writing, and more recently, the fiction world, and they’re all as brilliantly written as the last. Cathy is a writer who I would love to emulate in my own work - that ability to touch every fibre of ones heart and soul, no matter the topic.
Cathy is very genuine and honest in her exploration of becoming a writer. Writing may seem like an easy profession at first, but anyone in the business (or trying to break into it) can attest it is not. Cathy doesn’t hide away from this, and yet still makes it an exciting and achievable goal.
You know hundreds of thousands of people will be reading this book, but it gives you the feeling that Cathy is writing it directly for you and only for you. She seems approachable, like she would be happy to read through your work for you without evening having to ask. There is simply no ego. She has also provided small exercises, which aren’t pushy or complicated in any way, and they give you something to ponder whilst you’re working.
Like her, I also dislike when people say “If you’re meant to be a writer, you’ll find the time to write.” I understand the logic, but it doesn’t always work that way. Life, unfortunately, gets in the way, and sometimes our brains won’t even come up with the words we need. By sticking with this mentality, there’s extreme pressure and a worry you’ll never get started. So remember, write what you want to write, when you want to write, how you want to write it, and for whom you want to write it for. As long as you’re writing - whatever way you choose - you’re doing alright.
Cathy is very genuine and honest in her exploration of becoming a writer. Writing may seem like an easy profession at first, but anyone in the business (or trying to break into it) can attest it is not. Cathy doesn’t hide away from this, and yet still makes it an exciting and achievable goal.
You know hundreds of thousands of people will be reading this book, but it gives you the feeling that Cathy is writing it directly for you and only for you. She seems approachable, like she would be happy to read through your work for you without evening having to ask. There is simply no ego. She has also provided small exercises, which aren’t pushy or complicated in any way, and they give you something to ponder whilst you’re working.
Like her, I also dislike when people say “If you’re meant to be a writer, you’ll find the time to write.” I understand the logic, but it doesn’t always work that way. Life, unfortunately, gets in the way, and sometimes our brains won’t even come up with the words we need. By sticking with this mentality, there’s extreme pressure and a worry you’ll never get started. So remember, write what you want to write, when you want to write, how you want to write it, and for whom you want to write it for. As long as you’re writing - whatever way you choose - you’re doing alright.
January 30, 2022
(2.5) Cathy Rentzenbrink is a lovely human being, and I’ve always appreciated her enthusiastic support of books. I’ve read all of her work even though I’ve been disappointed with her last few releases. There are so many writing guides out there – including several on memoir-writing specifically – that the first question to ask about one is, does it offer anything new? For me, this one doesn’t. In fact, it’s more of a therapy session than a practical writing guide.
The undemanding prose slides right down, but 60 pages in (at the end of Part One, “Preparation”) I realized all we’d had thus far was enumerating and countering the hang-ups of unconfident, procrastinating would-be writers. The rest of the book does then get into the nitty-gritty of producing a first draft (“Excavation”) of a life story and editing it into a more polished form. Rentzenbrink peppers in little tricks to keep oneself at the desk, like setting a timer or micro-goals, writing a section in the form of a letter, and dredging up sensory details. Most of the mini chapters are just a couple of pages. Several end with a series of prompts. I’m notorious for skipping the application questions in self-help books, but I’d be interested to hear if other readers have actually gone through these exercises and found them helpful.
I’m so familiar with the author’s own story from her three autobiographical works that I was less than patient about encountering certain incidents again here – though I was intrigued to learn that she gave up alcohol in the recent past after realizing that she was a problem drinker. I’ve also read most of the material in her Further Reading list; all told, I didn’t feel this book offered me much, as a lay reader or a maybe-some-day memoirist. But it seems to have been enormously popular among critics and readers (its current average rating is 4.38), so clearly a lot of people have been finding Rentzenbrink’s down-to-earth approach reassuring.
Originally published on my blog, Bookish Beck.
The undemanding prose slides right down, but 60 pages in (at the end of Part One, “Preparation”) I realized all we’d had thus far was enumerating and countering the hang-ups of unconfident, procrastinating would-be writers. The rest of the book does then get into the nitty-gritty of producing a first draft (“Excavation”) of a life story and editing it into a more polished form. Rentzenbrink peppers in little tricks to keep oneself at the desk, like setting a timer or micro-goals, writing a section in the form of a letter, and dredging up sensory details. Most of the mini chapters are just a couple of pages. Several end with a series of prompts. I’m notorious for skipping the application questions in self-help books, but I’d be interested to hear if other readers have actually gone through these exercises and found them helpful.
I’m so familiar with the author’s own story from her three autobiographical works that I was less than patient about encountering certain incidents again here – though I was intrigued to learn that she gave up alcohol in the recent past after realizing that she was a problem drinker. I’ve also read most of the material in her Further Reading list; all told, I didn’t feel this book offered me much, as a lay reader or a maybe-some-day memoirist. But it seems to have been enormously popular among critics and readers (its current average rating is 4.38), so clearly a lot of people have been finding Rentzenbrink’s down-to-earth approach reassuring.
Originally published on my blog, Bookish Beck.
May 11, 2022
Makes writing seem very accessible and open to all.
August 30, 2023
Cathy Rentzenbrink maga is úgy kezdte, hogy életének egy fontos történetéről írt visszaemlékezést ma már több memoárt is jegyez (ezek főleg a gyásszal, gyászfeldolgozással foglalkoznak, de olvasmányairól is van egy kötete, ami ment is a kívánságlistámra), sőt rendszeresen tart képzéseket olyanoknak, akik szeretnének az írással foglalkozni. Ebben a kötetében saját példáját inspirációnak beállítva arra biztat, hogy mindenkinek lehet érdekes az élete amit érdemes leírni. Aztán eldönthetjük, hogy csak a fióknak vagy ki is adjuk, mert szertnénk, ha minél több emberhez jusson el.
A kötet négy részből áll: Előkészület, Kitermelés, Műhelymunka és szerkesztés, Elvégezni a munkát, amiből az utolsó kettő a legrövidebb. Egyébként a stílusa végig olyan, mintha egy kedves oktató mesélne nekünk, anekdotázgat és ötleteket ad: „gondolkodni valót ajánlok neked, nem szabályok sorát” írja már az elején a könyvnek és ehhez tartja magát. Az itt megmutatott technikák, feladatok tényleg csak mankók, kiinduló pontok, amikből lehet szemezgetni. Elmondja, hogy ő hogyan dolgozik, milyen rendszereket épített ki, mik azok a szabályok, keretek amik őt munkára ösztönzik, de többször felhoz más példákat is, hogy tanítványait, ismerőseit vagy pályatársait mi az ami segíti abban, hogy jól haladjanak az írással. Cathy nem dorgál, fegyelmez vagy szól le, sőt többször is felhívja arra a figyelmet, hogy legyünk kedvesek magunkkal szemben.
Engem, mint akinek életében folyton jelen volt az írás valamilyen formája, még ha végig megmaradtam amatőrnek is (napló írás, blogolás stb.) mindig is nagyon érdekeltek a kreatív írással foglalkozó könyvek. A Hogyan írjunk memoárt-ra azért voltam kíváncsi, mert egy olyan műfajról szól, amihez én is közel érzem a tevékenységemet (lásd napló, blog 😊), s nagyon örültem, hogy egy csomó dologra amit a saját kis homokozómban csinálok validációt kaptam, sőt visszaköszönt néhány motívum is (pl. gimis koromban sokáig fiktív személyeknek írtam levélként a naplóbejegyzéseimet, vagy hogy én is jártam már úgy, hogy egy füzet túl szép volt és nem mertem bele írni). Nagyon szimpatikus végig Cathy stílusa, hozzáállása, hogy mennyire komolyan veszi azt, hogy biztatja az olvasóját a potenciális írókat: mindenkinek más a története és ezt minél többen többféleképpen mesélik el, annál jobban gazdagítják a könyves világot is.
Teleragasztottam a könyvet post-itokkal és valószínűleg jó pár tanácsot, ötletet hasznosítani fogok belőle. Mindenképpen ajánlom elolvasni akár akar az ember memoárt írni, akár nem, de még ha kreatív írással is akar foglalkozni, a dolog mechanikájához mindenképpen talál a kötetben inspirációt. S nem csak azért, mert a kötet végén van egy csokor jótanács híres íróktól 😊
Részletesen: http://olvasonaplo.net/olvasonaplo/20...
A kötet négy részből áll: Előkészület, Kitermelés, Műhelymunka és szerkesztés, Elvégezni a munkát, amiből az utolsó kettő a legrövidebb. Egyébként a stílusa végig olyan, mintha egy kedves oktató mesélne nekünk, anekdotázgat és ötleteket ad: „gondolkodni valót ajánlok neked, nem szabályok sorát” írja már az elején a könyvnek és ehhez tartja magát. Az itt megmutatott technikák, feladatok tényleg csak mankók, kiinduló pontok, amikből lehet szemezgetni. Elmondja, hogy ő hogyan dolgozik, milyen rendszereket épített ki, mik azok a szabályok, keretek amik őt munkára ösztönzik, de többször felhoz más példákat is, hogy tanítványait, ismerőseit vagy pályatársait mi az ami segíti abban, hogy jól haladjanak az írással. Cathy nem dorgál, fegyelmez vagy szól le, sőt többször is felhívja arra a figyelmet, hogy legyünk kedvesek magunkkal szemben.
Engem, mint akinek életében folyton jelen volt az írás valamilyen formája, még ha végig megmaradtam amatőrnek is (napló írás, blogolás stb.) mindig is nagyon érdekeltek a kreatív írással foglalkozó könyvek. A Hogyan írjunk memoárt-ra azért voltam kíváncsi, mert egy olyan műfajról szól, amihez én is közel érzem a tevékenységemet (lásd napló, blog 😊), s nagyon örültem, hogy egy csomó dologra amit a saját kis homokozómban csinálok validációt kaptam, sőt visszaköszönt néhány motívum is (pl. gimis koromban sokáig fiktív személyeknek írtam levélként a naplóbejegyzéseimet, vagy hogy én is jártam már úgy, hogy egy füzet túl szép volt és nem mertem bele írni). Nagyon szimpatikus végig Cathy stílusa, hozzáállása, hogy mennyire komolyan veszi azt, hogy biztatja az olvasóját a potenciális írókat: mindenkinek más a története és ezt minél többen többféleképpen mesélik el, annál jobban gazdagítják a könyves világot is.
Teleragasztottam a könyvet post-itokkal és valószínűleg jó pár tanácsot, ötletet hasznosítani fogok belőle. Mindenképpen ajánlom elolvasni akár akar az ember memoárt írni, akár nem, de még ha kreatív írással is akar foglalkozni, a dolog mechanikájához mindenképpen talál a kötetben inspirációt. S nem csak azért, mert a kötet végén van egy csokor jótanács híres íróktól 😊
Részletesen: http://olvasonaplo.net/olvasonaplo/20...
February 15, 2023
Cathy Rentzenbrick is the author of five books including this one, which is an explorative and encouraging guide to writing your own story. She has a wonderful way of providing helpful advice along with great ideas and reveals the procedures that have worked for her.
While not particularly having any grand aspirations to be a writer (I have too many books to read, I couldn’t possibly leave them all to write!) I have kept a daily diary for about thirty five years now chronicling all my life (yes my teens are particularly cringey) so I found her advice really useful in honing my diary writing skills.
So when I’m dead and buried and I’ve become the 21st Century Samuel Pepys, then watch out for a marked improvement circa February 2023! For which Cathy can take full credit!
While not particularly having any grand aspirations to be a writer (I have too many books to read, I couldn’t possibly leave them all to write!) I have kept a daily diary for about thirty five years now chronicling all my life (yes my teens are particularly cringey) so I found her advice really useful in honing my diary writing skills.
So when I’m dead and buried and I’ve become the 21st Century Samuel Pepys, then watch out for a marked improvement circa February 2023! For which Cathy can take full credit!
January 18, 2022
An exploration of the power of words, and the cathartic effect of penning emotions on paper. Why do we write? How do we express ourselves through the written word? Addressing personal essays and memoirs, Cathy guides us on how to put our lives on the page, by transforming memories into literature. She talks about using writing as therapy, mining the self for stories, getting over mental blocks, overcoming personal traumas, navigating privacy and sharing secrets.
From the specifics of memoir and personal writing, we move on to the act of writing as a habit. Daily writing, exploring the senses, dealing with negative self-talk, balancing personal life with creative writing in drafting a memoir, how much to edit, and where does storytelling take over while sharing facts about ourselves.
The third segment of the book delves into the finer details of writing as a craft – structural edits, line edits, writing rituals, setting a time, fixing a place. In the final section, Cathy shares reading recommendations - books on writing from established writers, and also general well written books to hone one’s writing skills from the perspective of a reader.
Memoir writing is a genre of its own. It isn’t hardcore non-fiction based entirely on research; neither is it purely fiction based on imagination and creativity. The “research” involved is digging deep into our past lives, excavating repressed or forgotten memories, and building these life stories into a coherent structure of a narrative.
Peppered with wonderful quotes and warmth and inspiration, Write It All Down celebrates the joys of scribbling and communing with ourselves to navigate the world. It serves as a handbook on the philosophical and practical challenges of writing about the self.
https://tomesandtales365.wordpress.co...
From the specifics of memoir and personal writing, we move on to the act of writing as a habit. Daily writing, exploring the senses, dealing with negative self-talk, balancing personal life with creative writing in drafting a memoir, how much to edit, and where does storytelling take over while sharing facts about ourselves.
The third segment of the book delves into the finer details of writing as a craft – structural edits, line edits, writing rituals, setting a time, fixing a place. In the final section, Cathy shares reading recommendations - books on writing from established writers, and also general well written books to hone one’s writing skills from the perspective of a reader.
Memoir writing is a genre of its own. It isn’t hardcore non-fiction based entirely on research; neither is it purely fiction based on imagination and creativity. The “research” involved is digging deep into our past lives, excavating repressed or forgotten memories, and building these life stories into a coherent structure of a narrative.
Peppered with wonderful quotes and warmth and inspiration, Write It All Down celebrates the joys of scribbling and communing with ourselves to navigate the world. It serves as a handbook on the philosophical and practical challenges of writing about the self.
https://tomesandtales365.wordpress.co...
October 30, 2022
A lovely book. It’s very much a beginners guide to being a writer, but it’s very sensible and reassuring advice. It reminds you we all have the same thoughts, worries and ways of procrastinating, that stop us from actually writing anything down. It’s not really a how-to book, because everyone has their own way of doing things, and you have to find your own way forward. However, I found it very encouraging.
I also think much of this book doubles up as a good therapy book. Even if you’re not planning on writing a memoir, some of the exercises given here are more revealing than anything I’ve done in the complex PTSD book I’m also currently reading. And the writing has a lovely cosy, warm quality, that just makes it a pleasure to read.
I also think much of this book doubles up as a good therapy book. Even if you’re not planning on writing a memoir, some of the exercises given here are more revealing than anything I’ve done in the complex PTSD book I’m also currently reading. And the writing has a lovely cosy, warm quality, that just makes it a pleasure to read.
July 15, 2022
Another likeable self-help book from Cathy Rentzenbrink. It's short, not quite as short as A MANUAL FOR HEARTACHE, but getting there. The first half is very much a kind of 'pick me up' from author to reader, asserting you to have faith in yourself and your abilities and how to develop the right kind of mindset from which to write your memoir. There are the usual writing prompts and exercises along the way. The second half looks more at the nitty gritty, at inspiration, at showing instead of telling, at editing, timescale and making the actual time to sit down and do it. All good stuff and breezily told; it says something that I always read this author's work at top speed.
January 4, 2022
This book offers itself as a guide to helping you write, but goes much further, instead feeling like a warm hug from a good friend.
Rentzenbrink very much practises what she preaches in this book, encouraging you to be bold in your vulnerability while being incredibly vulnerable herself, encouraging cheerfulness and empathy whilst doing the same, and telling you to get your first draft down while showing you her draft versions of certain parts.
This book feels immensely generous, encouraging you to go and read but without that feeling like a hollow goal- you get the sense that if you get stuck, you can come back and read the book all over again, and she’ll be there to cheer you on.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rentzenbrink very much practises what she preaches in this book, encouraging you to be bold in your vulnerability while being incredibly vulnerable herself, encouraging cheerfulness and empathy whilst doing the same, and telling you to get your first draft down while showing you her draft versions of certain parts.
This book feels immensely generous, encouraging you to go and read but without that feeling like a hollow goal- you get the sense that if you get stuck, you can come back and read the book all over again, and she’ll be there to cheer you on.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2022
Having read and enjoyed her book about the joy of reading, I was intrigued about this book and to see how it compares to other writing guides. I was not disappointed, this is an encouraging book for those wishing to write but particularly if you wish to write memoir or autobiography. She recognises that writing one's own story is different from writing fiction and whilst there are some general writing prompts to get you started this book is really there to encourage you to write about your life. I really liked that there was much relatable text about her own struggles, especially how beliefs can stifle creativity. I enjoyed the feeling of learning from someone else's mistakes. Inspiring!
With thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
With thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2022
Loved this, and read it very quickly - now I'll go back to it more slowly and try some of the exercises.
It's much more about what stops you writing at all than a practical guide to how to write, which is what I found so useful.
It's much more about what stops you writing at all than a practical guide to how to write, which is what I found so useful.
June 21, 2025
This is a good resource book for writers.
June 9, 2022
I guess I'm not the right audience for this book and I should definitely stop reading books about writing and "craft" lol.
I liked the idea of Write It All Down and having read two other books by Cathy Rentzenbrink, I decided to give it a go. Cathy's writing is lovely - she's just like a friend giving you advice, which is how I felt when reading/listening to A Manual for Heartache. But this book overall just doesn't do it for me. It's very short, the chapters are short, so it never goes it any detail, and I don't think it gives you any proper writing advice really... I don't think I got anything new or useful from this? Again, I've read enough books about writing and have no interest in writing a memoir, so clearly this just isn't for me.
I better crack on with my own writing projects instead of dwelling on this. Or, re-read two of the best and brilliant books ever written about the subject: On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft & Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life.
I liked the idea of Write It All Down and having read two other books by Cathy Rentzenbrink, I decided to give it a go. Cathy's writing is lovely - she's just like a friend giving you advice, which is how I felt when reading/listening to A Manual for Heartache. But this book overall just doesn't do it for me. It's very short, the chapters are short, so it never goes it any detail, and I don't think it gives you any proper writing advice really... I don't think I got anything new or useful from this? Again, I've read enough books about writing and have no interest in writing a memoir, so clearly this just isn't for me.
I better crack on with my own writing projects instead of dwelling on this. Or, re-read two of the best and brilliant books ever written about the subject: On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft & Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life.
Read
August 11, 2022This book takes your hands and patiently walks you through the process of writing, helping you to let go of the fear, get out of too much thinking and dig into the actual act of writing.
The structure based on short chapters and the nice flow full of quotes and anecdotes makes it a fun read, a great starting point for anyone who fancies to tell a story.
I particularly liked part four with the inspiring explanation about how to make writing into a habit and how to make a peaceful space for the mind to wander and cherish the whole process.
Highly recommended.
The structure based on short chapters and the nice flow full of quotes and anecdotes makes it a fun read, a great starting point for anyone who fancies to tell a story.
I particularly liked part four with the inspiring explanation about how to make writing into a habit and how to make a peaceful space for the mind to wander and cherish the whole process.
Highly recommended.
June 27, 2022
This is just plain and simple encouragement to write, accessible and presented in no way hard to follow. I’ve managed to read it while it’s still a relatively new release, and it feels like the most contemporary of guides in its language.
Much like Writing Down the Bones and Stephen King On Writing, both of which I also enjoyed, it’s just that bit more supportive in the quest of writing down what’s personal.
Much like Writing Down the Bones and Stephen King On Writing, both of which I also enjoyed, it’s just that bit more supportive in the quest of writing down what’s personal.
January 11, 2023
Truly gorgeous book packed with encouragement and reflections on writing.
June 6, 2023
So motivational!
February 22, 2024
I loved this and think anyone who ever wanted to write (and is a bit (or a lot) worried they can't do it) should read it. A total gem of a book.
May 4, 2024
I remember this book being released. I picked it up, and walked on past. I did this on multiple occasions…it always caught eye when I went in the bookshop. I did know it was a self help, and an aid to help me write. Now I few years on I have started to show an interest in writing, and picking up books on this very subject, I was reminded on this book. I read Cathy’s book Dear Reader, and I was very lucky to meet her. I enjoyed Dear Reader so much, that I didn’t hesitate to add this to my library.
If you want to learn the basis of writing, this is a fantastic book to begin with. Although it focuses on writing about your life, I can’t see any reason why the activities and suggestions Cathy puts forward can’t be using in writing and forming any book, fiction or non fiction.
If you want to learn the basis of writing, this is a fantastic book to begin with. Although it focuses on writing about your life, I can’t see any reason why the activities and suggestions Cathy puts forward can’t be using in writing and forming any book, fiction or non fiction.
October 9, 2025
To be honest, I picked up this book not because of the title or content, I picked it because I love the color blue, the color of the sky and ocean, and because of the attractive illusions.
The book is very basic and for beginners. I did not like the writing style of how she was speaking to the reader. I had to skim all the way to the end to get something out of it. I recommend that you do your research on the book very well before purchasing it. There are more brilliant books out there that are more better than this one.
The book is very basic and for beginners. I did not like the writing style of how she was speaking to the reader. I had to skim all the way to the end to get something out of it. I recommend that you do your research on the book very well before purchasing it. There are more brilliant books out there that are more better than this one.
May 21, 2022
This was brilliant. It was like Cathy spoke inside my mind. My top recommendation on how-to books for memoir writers
February 10, 2022
This book is subtitled “How to put your life on the page” and is a guide, encouragement and even friend in the process of writing your memoirs. This is a book that takes the reader through the entire process, from Preparation, Excavation, through Crafting and Editing to Getting Work Done. These are the main sections of the book, which give the basics of writing the story of a life, or part of it. It would work well for someone intending to seek publication (although there are no technical details of publishers etc), as well as someone seeking to construct a book for amore limited audience. Not that it expects everyone to sit and write flowingly before a quick tidy and submission; this book is far more detailed and realistic than that. It looks at the difficulties of getting started on a project that may have seemed attractive for a considerable time, but has been put off for many incidental reasons like waiting for a new laptop, the right setting, or the myriad other reasons for not actually writing. It also has encouraging words for finding time in a busy life, ideas for inspiration when stuck, and how to cope when Times are Tough. As an experienced writer of memoirs and fiction herself, the author has a track record for not only managing her own writing when distracted by circumstances but also leading workshops and other sessions. Rentzenbrink is above all honest and realistic in this book, and I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review it.
One of this book's great strengths is the realistic knowledge that writing something, even the stories of one’s own life which should be well known, is neither easy nor straightforward. While immense research such as that required by committed historical fiction writing, for example, is not required, it is recognised that a would-be writer of memoirs does need stimulation to remember and capture the moments. It suggests the collection of photographs and small souvenirs to trigger memories. It looks at exercises to write lists of places which may help structure writing a life story, as well a list of memories which may well not be included in the finished piece, but can help to trigger the process of remembering the useful points. It suggests the need for thinking through what to write that need not take place in front of a screen or with pen in hand, the process of seemingly doing nothing until thoughts are sorted. This is a book which suggests that real courage is needed in order to write the truth of memory in a way that will work for other people. It helps with examples of how to write an incident without distraction or surplus information; giving an indication of how easy it is to be led off on a completely different path or constructing a different atmosphere from the central memory. This book is the work of a writer who has produced four previous books which have been successful, as well as reading a phenomenal amount herself (as detailed in “Dear Reader”). She knows of what she writes!
This book also includes a section of Further Reading, listing the books on Writing,and the memoirs which have inspired Rentzenbrink, via the most significant lines. She has An Inspiring Addendum, which consists of paragraphs of advice from well known writers who have published their own memoirs among other books, such as Matt Haig and Lucy Mangan. Altogether this is an immensely helpful book for anyone who has ever considered writing from their life, or indeed anyone who has thought about writing a significant length piece. It has advice, encouragement and the basic truth, that it is all about actual writing something down which is vital.
One of this book's great strengths is the realistic knowledge that writing something, even the stories of one’s own life which should be well known, is neither easy nor straightforward. While immense research such as that required by committed historical fiction writing, for example, is not required, it is recognised that a would-be writer of memoirs does need stimulation to remember and capture the moments. It suggests the collection of photographs and small souvenirs to trigger memories. It looks at exercises to write lists of places which may help structure writing a life story, as well a list of memories which may well not be included in the finished piece, but can help to trigger the process of remembering the useful points. It suggests the need for thinking through what to write that need not take place in front of a screen or with pen in hand, the process of seemingly doing nothing until thoughts are sorted. This is a book which suggests that real courage is needed in order to write the truth of memory in a way that will work for other people. It helps with examples of how to write an incident without distraction or surplus information; giving an indication of how easy it is to be led off on a completely different path or constructing a different atmosphere from the central memory. This book is the work of a writer who has produced four previous books which have been successful, as well as reading a phenomenal amount herself (as detailed in “Dear Reader”). She knows of what she writes!
This book also includes a section of Further Reading, listing the books on Writing,and the memoirs which have inspired Rentzenbrink, via the most significant lines. She has An Inspiring Addendum, which consists of paragraphs of advice from well known writers who have published their own memoirs among other books, such as Matt Haig and Lucy Mangan. Altogether this is an immensely helpful book for anyone who has ever considered writing from their life, or indeed anyone who has thought about writing a significant length piece. It has advice, encouragement and the basic truth, that it is all about actual writing something down which is vital.
February 11, 2022
If you have ever dreamed about writing about your life or writing in general, then this dear reader is the book for you. Rentzenbrink welcomes the reader on the journey of writing the self and explains how it is a tricky, slippery business but very rewarding. She is here to help and can’t promise that it will be easy.
The book is split into four parts, Preparation, Excavation, Crafting and Editing, and finally Getting Work Done. This helps ease the reader onto their path towards writing about the self.
Throughout the book Rentzenbrink is your guide and helps keep you motivated and engaged. She helps the reader discover the pure delight of putting words on the page and watching them dance to the rhythm of your pen. She shows the reader how to unravel the events of your life that changed you, were important and made you who you are today.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as Rentzenbrink’s narrative is not only positive and inspiring, but warm and friendly. She tells the reader that they don’t have to agree with her and encourages them to find their own style. She is just sharing her knowledge of what works for her. She tells the reader there is no template and that writing is a mysterious, magical beast. She remains very open and hopes the book will feel more like a conversation than a set of instructions. And it does, the tone is not only informative, but relaxed and a pleasure to read. She relates to the reader and shares her own experiences with writing, how she has doubted herself and understands it’s not easy to do. That life can get in the way and stop us from writing. It’s a great comfort to read and you don’t feel so alone. To find someone who understands your passion and supports you is a rare find these days. Rentzenbrink remains constant throughout, standing by your side and cheering you on.
Rentzenbrink helps the reader overcome their doubts with her techniques and exercises such as mind mapping and free-writing. There is one point in the book where I found myself making a horrendous noise, letting it all out and getting strange looks from my husband. It was exhilarating and just one of the many unique ways that Rentzenbrink helps the reader to become comfortable and relaxed with writing.
I give Write It All Down How to Put Your Life on the Page By Cathy Rentzenbrink a Five out of Five paw rating.
Engaging and extremely encouraging, this book is for anyone who has a passion for writing. It’s perfect for beginners and even advanced writers as there is always something new to learn when it comes to writing. That’s the beauty of it. I highly recommend you add this to your must-reads this year and give memoir writing a go. You might surprise yourself at what you uncover.
The book is split into four parts, Preparation, Excavation, Crafting and Editing, and finally Getting Work Done. This helps ease the reader onto their path towards writing about the self.
Throughout the book Rentzenbrink is your guide and helps keep you motivated and engaged. She helps the reader discover the pure delight of putting words on the page and watching them dance to the rhythm of your pen. She shows the reader how to unravel the events of your life that changed you, were important and made you who you are today.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as Rentzenbrink’s narrative is not only positive and inspiring, but warm and friendly. She tells the reader that they don’t have to agree with her and encourages them to find their own style. She is just sharing her knowledge of what works for her. She tells the reader there is no template and that writing is a mysterious, magical beast. She remains very open and hopes the book will feel more like a conversation than a set of instructions. And it does, the tone is not only informative, but relaxed and a pleasure to read. She relates to the reader and shares her own experiences with writing, how she has doubted herself and understands it’s not easy to do. That life can get in the way and stop us from writing. It’s a great comfort to read and you don’t feel so alone. To find someone who understands your passion and supports you is a rare find these days. Rentzenbrink remains constant throughout, standing by your side and cheering you on.
Rentzenbrink helps the reader overcome their doubts with her techniques and exercises such as mind mapping and free-writing. There is one point in the book where I found myself making a horrendous noise, letting it all out and getting strange looks from my husband. It was exhilarating and just one of the many unique ways that Rentzenbrink helps the reader to become comfortable and relaxed with writing.
I give Write It All Down How to Put Your Life on the Page By Cathy Rentzenbrink a Five out of Five paw rating.
Engaging and extremely encouraging, this book is for anyone who has a passion for writing. It’s perfect for beginners and even advanced writers as there is always something new to learn when it comes to writing. That’s the beauty of it. I highly recommend you add this to your must-reads this year and give memoir writing a go. You might surprise yourself at what you uncover.
January 21, 2022
Write It All Down - How To Put Your Life On The Page - Cathy Rentzenbrink
‘𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤,’ 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲, ‘𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐝𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐭.’
An exercise:
𝙈𝙮 𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙨… Jen
𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚… I want to encourage myself to write ( and I am on a blog tour, and I’m intrigued and I already preordered this before I joined the tour!)
𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜… contented as I’m snug in a scarf in a cafe, drinking chai latte but, I also feel really positive and that I am in good hands with Cathy
𝙄 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡…feel closer to making a start on my writing and that I may even be able to call myself a writer!
𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛
This isn’t just a book about writing, this is just a book you should read. Cathy writes with real honesty and with an easy flow that you can just dip in and out of, it’s like having a chat with a mate, with a tea and cake, or a glass of vino.
It has made me think about myself and I may not yet start writing, but in baby steps, and with time I may get write - for myself.
Reading this I feel like I’ve got so much I want to say, just about stuff, it may never coalesce into a book, ever. But actually it might! Some of this book especially in the first quarter really got to me and gave me a lump in my throat to read, about the commonality of our fears and our hopes too.
This is a book I will return to time and again, I connected so much with it and loved the exercises, the mining for gold section was great, with short lists to make ( I love lists!), Desert island disc lists, all sorts to trigger memories and stories and get you thinking and more importantly writing.
One of my favourite pieces of advice is:
‘𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨.’
Reading this actually lifted the fear from my chest and made me think I could do it. I’m not expecting a book deal, I just would like to write and get it on the page.
Thanks Cathy, this has been so helpful!
Many thanks to Random Things Tours, Cathy Rentzenbrink and Bluebird Books for my copy of this book and spot on the tour
‘𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤,’ 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲, ‘𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐝𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐭.’
An exercise:
𝙈𝙮 𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙨… Jen
𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚… I want to encourage myself to write ( and I am on a blog tour, and I’m intrigued and I already preordered this before I joined the tour!)
𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜… contented as I’m snug in a scarf in a cafe, drinking chai latte but, I also feel really positive and that I am in good hands with Cathy
𝙄 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡…feel closer to making a start on my writing and that I may even be able to call myself a writer!
𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛
This isn’t just a book about writing, this is just a book you should read. Cathy writes with real honesty and with an easy flow that you can just dip in and out of, it’s like having a chat with a mate, with a tea and cake, or a glass of vino.
It has made me think about myself and I may not yet start writing, but in baby steps, and with time I may get write - for myself.
Reading this I feel like I’ve got so much I want to say, just about stuff, it may never coalesce into a book, ever. But actually it might! Some of this book especially in the first quarter really got to me and gave me a lump in my throat to read, about the commonality of our fears and our hopes too.
This is a book I will return to time and again, I connected so much with it and loved the exercises, the mining for gold section was great, with short lists to make ( I love lists!), Desert island disc lists, all sorts to trigger memories and stories and get you thinking and more importantly writing.
One of my favourite pieces of advice is:
‘𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨.’
Reading this actually lifted the fear from my chest and made me think I could do it. I’m not expecting a book deal, I just would like to write and get it on the page.
Thanks Cathy, this has been so helpful!
Many thanks to Random Things Tours, Cathy Rentzenbrink and Bluebird Books for my copy of this book and spot on the tour
January 18, 2022
“…it can be inspiring to remember that many things that became raging successes came out of left field. There is no reason why the next big thing should not be you! Don’t not write something because it doesn’t already exist. You might make it exist.”
Why do we want to write and what stops us? How do we fight the worry that no-one will care what we have to say? What can we do to overcome the obstacles in our way? Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Rentzenbrink shows you how to tackle all this and more in Write It All Down, a guide to putting your life on the page.
As a writer, the biggest investment one needs to make is time. A seed of an idea may germinate in your head. But the path to actually getting your thoughts down on paper is ridden with potholes holding you back.
Cathy Rentzenbrink breaks down each of those reasons. Her approach is simply to write. From a paragraph to a page to a chapter to a book. It doesn’t matter whether you type or write longhand. The key is to write because the more you write, the more you learn from it and can identify what works for you.
I’ve read my fair share of books on writing and there’s always something new to learn from each one of them. What stood apart for me while reading this book was the feeling as if the author was handholding me through a dark and creepy forest, urging me to be brave and take that next step.
I’m no psychic, but if I were, this book would be my crystal ball of writing that answers every question and assuages all my fears. Having read this book, I’m inspired to trust my writing instincts and run forward with the faith that sooner or later, I’ll find the right path.
This ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Bluebird Books.
For complete review, visit https://aquamarineflavours.wordpress....
Find me on other platforms via https://linktr.ee/AshieJayn
Why do we want to write and what stops us? How do we fight the worry that no-one will care what we have to say? What can we do to overcome the obstacles in our way? Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Rentzenbrink shows you how to tackle all this and more in Write It All Down, a guide to putting your life on the page.
As a writer, the biggest investment one needs to make is time. A seed of an idea may germinate in your head. But the path to actually getting your thoughts down on paper is ridden with potholes holding you back.
Cathy Rentzenbrink breaks down each of those reasons. Her approach is simply to write. From a paragraph to a page to a chapter to a book. It doesn’t matter whether you type or write longhand. The key is to write because the more you write, the more you learn from it and can identify what works for you.
I’ve read my fair share of books on writing and there’s always something new to learn from each one of them. What stood apart for me while reading this book was the feeling as if the author was handholding me through a dark and creepy forest, urging me to be brave and take that next step.
I’m no psychic, but if I were, this book would be my crystal ball of writing that answers every question and assuages all my fears. Having read this book, I’m inspired to trust my writing instincts and run forward with the faith that sooner or later, I’ll find the right path.
This ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Bluebird Books.
For complete review, visit https://aquamarineflavours.wordpress....
Find me on other platforms via https://linktr.ee/AshieJayn
January 4, 2022
There's a passage that stood out for me in this wonderful book about writing by Cathy Rentzenbrink and it's this - 'Writing functions like anti-anxiety medication for me. If I take my two hour pill of it every morning, then I have much more chance of enjoying the rest of the day.'
Whether you are an established writer, someone hoping to write a book or someone who wants to simply start writing and keeping a journal, there's something in this book for everyone. The main take home message for me was to simply write and keep writing, everyday if you can. I found this book to be really comforting and I loved the journal/writing prompts. Many self-care articles talk about keeping a daily journal for mental health but actually getting started can be hard for a lot of people and writing innermost thoughts can be intimidating. This excellent book has given me tips for how to get started with regular writing practice. I finished it last night and have already purchased a copy for a family member who is in the process of writing a book. The author's insights from her own writing practice are invaluable and I loved hearing tips and ideas from other writers at the end of the book.
I have no doubt this book will be a success and thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Whether you are an established writer, someone hoping to write a book or someone who wants to simply start writing and keeping a journal, there's something in this book for everyone. The main take home message for me was to simply write and keep writing, everyday if you can. I found this book to be really comforting and I loved the journal/writing prompts. Many self-care articles talk about keeping a daily journal for mental health but actually getting started can be hard for a lot of people and writing innermost thoughts can be intimidating. This excellent book has given me tips for how to get started with regular writing practice. I finished it last night and have already purchased a copy for a family member who is in the process of writing a book. The author's insights from her own writing practice are invaluable and I loved hearing tips and ideas from other writers at the end of the book.
I have no doubt this book will be a success and thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
January 5, 2022
Cathy Rentzenbrink's book gently takes the reader - or more accurately in the context of this book "Dear Writer" - through how to start to write a memoir. It considers the barriers to even starting to put pen to paper and how to think differently about capturing what to include in a memoir. But this book isn't about "should or shouldn't". The book isn't prescriptive and isn't a set of rules to follow. It includes suggestions on approach but leaves space for the writer to find their own voice and style.
I write a lot for a living, but in a very different context, and I found it helpful to think about how to shape my writing and overcome barriers and procrastination, particularly as I embark on a new project. But, I also found the pointers helpful to think about how to capture more personal aspects of my life whether in smaller or larger ways.
If memoir interests you, there is a discussion on BBC Woman's Hour, including contributions from Cathy Rentzenbrink on this and her other books https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001...
The book also includes a number of suggestions of memoirs to read, which has greatly increased my list of books to read. So, my memoir might be on hold for a while.
I write a lot for a living, but in a very different context, and I found it helpful to think about how to shape my writing and overcome barriers and procrastination, particularly as I embark on a new project. But, I also found the pointers helpful to think about how to capture more personal aspects of my life whether in smaller or larger ways.
If memoir interests you, there is a discussion on BBC Woman's Hour, including contributions from Cathy Rentzenbrink on this and her other books https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001...
The book also includes a number of suggestions of memoirs to read, which has greatly increased my list of books to read. So, my memoir might be on hold for a while.
April 25, 2022
Like many people in the world, I've always wanted to write a book. I've never known how to start and reading books about writing felt tedious.
I already knew Cathy Retzenbrink before picking up this book; I had read "Dear Reader" and absolutely loved everything about it, so I needed to get my hands on Write It All Down. Also, I had a feeling it would NOT be tedious at all, and that I would have a great time reading it.
I was right. This book is SO inspiring and motivating. To be honest, I had the Rocky song playing in my head while reading some chapters because this gem of a book is so uplifting. For the first time in forever I truly believed I could write that goddamn book of mine, that I had the capacity and the ideas to do it. It felt exhilarating.
The chapters in this memoir about writing are quite short so very easy to read, and it doesn't feel like you're buried under tons of advice and information. It reads like a breeze but gives you so much motivation. I totally felt like I was in a writing workshop, and an amazing one at that.
The thing I loved most about this book is how intimate it felt, reading about the author's own struggles with writing. It can find an echo in all of us aspiring writers I guess. I'm just so happy I've added this book in my library!
I already knew Cathy Retzenbrink before picking up this book; I had read "Dear Reader" and absolutely loved everything about it, so I needed to get my hands on Write It All Down. Also, I had a feeling it would NOT be tedious at all, and that I would have a great time reading it.
I was right. This book is SO inspiring and motivating. To be honest, I had the Rocky song playing in my head while reading some chapters because this gem of a book is so uplifting. For the first time in forever I truly believed I could write that goddamn book of mine, that I had the capacity and the ideas to do it. It felt exhilarating.
The chapters in this memoir about writing are quite short so very easy to read, and it doesn't feel like you're buried under tons of advice and information. It reads like a breeze but gives you so much motivation. I totally felt like I was in a writing workshop, and an amazing one at that.
The thing I loved most about this book is how intimate it felt, reading about the author's own struggles with writing. It can find an echo in all of us aspiring writers I guess. I'm just so happy I've added this book in my library!
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