The Writer’s Little Book of Platitudes: Tips and Tricks for Taking (and Ignoring) Advice

by Marie Brennan

“Show, don’t tell.” “Murder your darlings.” “Write every day.”

Certain pieces of advice are widespread in the writing community — but what do they really mean? And are they nuggets of universal wisdom, or do they only apply to some writers in some circumstances? Award-winning author Marie Brennan tackles these old saws, dissecting each one to see what purpose it might serve . . . and when you should toss it aside.

62 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2026

About the author

Marie Brennan a.k.a. M.A. Carrick

Marie Brennan is a former anthropologist and folklorist who shamelessly pillages her academic fields for material. She recently misapplied her professors' hard work to Turning Darkness Into Light, a sequel to the Hugo Award-nominated series The Memoirs of Lady Trent. As half of M.A. Carrick, she is also the author of The Mask of Mirrors, first in the Rook and Rose trilogy. For more information, visit swantower.com, Twitter @swan_tower, or her Patreon.

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Indeed a little book. I think it's great for beginning writers who are being bombarded from all sides with advice and "tip and tricks".

My advice? Just write and take or leave as much advice that helps you write more.

[Mysteryfan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an entertaining short collection of essays on writing. It takes the platitudes - kill your darlings, write what you know, , etc. - and explores the useful kernels that can lie within them. Robert Heinlein has a lot to answer for. Worthwhile even if you aren't a writer.