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Good Naked: Reflections on How to Write More, Write Better, and Be Happier
Included in Poets & Writers magazine's list of "BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS" Good Naked shows readers how to make the writing process not only more productive, but less maddening, more inviting, and even joyful, at least a good part of the time. Author Joni B. Cole explains how sharing early drafts is "good naked" -- you're exposing your creative process in all its glory. Through a mix of engaging stories and practical wisdom, all delivered with sheer good humor, Cole addresses the most common challenges writers confront and offers disarmingly simple but effective solutions. She debunks popular misconceptions about how we are supposed to write and replaces them with strategies that actually work to get us started and stay motivated. (Searching for your muse? Try looking in the fridge.) With a do-this-not-that directness, she sets writers free from debilitating attitudes, counterproductive practices, and energy-draining habits that undermine confidence and creativity.
Equipped with experience and a refreshing respect for anyone who wants to write, Cole also infuses every chapter with insights into craft and narrative technique--because the truly happy ending is not just that we write more, but that we write well.
If you have ever experienced a sense of dread or intimidation at any stage of the creative process, or even if you simply want to write more, write better, and be happier, this intelligent, funny, and generous guide will not only inspire you to head over to your desk, but will also cheer you on once you're there.
Equipped with experience and a refreshing respect for anyone who wants to write, Cole also infuses every chapter with insights into craft and narrative technique--because the truly happy ending is not just that we write more, but that we write well.
If you have ever experienced a sense of dread or intimidation at any stage of the creative process, or even if you simply want to write more, write better, and be happier, this intelligent, funny, and generous guide will not only inspire you to head over to your desk, but will also cheer you on once you're there.
- GenresWritingNonfictionAdult
208 pages, Paperback
First published April 4, 2017
10 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
About the author
Joni B. Cole
8 books65 followersJoni B. Cole is the author of the new release Good Naked: Reflections on How to Write More, Write Better, and Be Happier ("Joyful, tough-minded, and heartening, these pages offer encouragement to anyone from beginners to experienced writers. Good Naked is one of the best books for writers I’ve read in a very long time."—Cynthia Huntington, National Book Award Finalist, poetry). Joni's acclaimed first book on writing, Toxic Feedback: Helping Writers Survive and Thrive, is “strongly recommended” for students and teachers by Library Journal. (“I can’t imagine a better guide to [writing’s] rewards and perils than this fine book,” American Book Review.) Joni is also the author of Another Bad-Dog Book: Essays on Life, Love, and Neurotic Human Behavior, and a contributor to The Writer magazine. She serves on the faculty of the New Hampshire Institute of Art, teaches in the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program at Dartmouth College, and is founder of the Writer’s Center of White River Junction, Vermont. Joni has been nominated for both a Pushcart Prize and USA Fellowship Award. For more information: jonibcole.com
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 31, 2017
If you are a writer, this book is like having a hilarious guardian angel on your shoulder, cheering you on and often making you laugh out loud. Forget the nattering devil on the other shoulder who says you're a hopeless hack. Writing, like any other endeavor that involves putting yourself out there, takes some courage. It also takes an understanding of the craft, and Cole's book teaches while it motivates and entertains. Funny, essential, personal, and wise essays that will help you write more and worry less.
May 25, 2017
This is a very funny and positive how to write. Inevitably, it compares to Bird by Bird. This is more positive, funnier (BbB was funny too) and better organized. Each chapter follows a certain pattern: intro, lesson, mnemonic.
mnemonics/chapters that stick out - What a week/ kindness, Church of the Creative, See Blue, Every. Single. Day., Brutal Honesty, Reverse Curse, Happy Endings, Great Americans.
Cole recommends writing scene by scene, starting with one thing. This is a lot like writing bird by bird. She's just more positive. There's no stories of rejection induced benders with a lot of social drinks and just a smidgen of cocaine excused by formerly being quite an anteater like Bird by Bird. The biggest drama is getting fussy over socks. It's hard to be positive all the time.
I guess that's the power of positive thinking. It's better to think positive. Also its better to join a writing club. 5.3 - that's how much longer women live then men because women do things like join writing clubs. That was the other take away. Looking at first drafts with other and sharing constructive criticism not brutal honesty.
Interestingly, Cole writes about another author who is not named who was also writing a book at the same time. I thought it might be Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic. Big Magic is generally about the creative process it isn't as much of a how to write a novel as this.
There's no reason you can't read all three. You would do well to read this first.
mnemonics/chapters that stick out - What a week/ kindness, Church of the Creative, See Blue, Every. Single. Day., Brutal Honesty, Reverse Curse, Happy Endings, Great Americans.
Cole recommends writing scene by scene, starting with one thing. This is a lot like writing bird by bird. She's just more positive. There's no stories of rejection induced benders with a lot of social drinks and just a smidgen of cocaine excused by formerly being quite an anteater like Bird by Bird. The biggest drama is getting fussy over socks. It's hard to be positive all the time.
I guess that's the power of positive thinking. It's better to think positive. Also its better to join a writing club. 5.3 - that's how much longer women live then men because women do things like join writing clubs. That was the other take away. Looking at first drafts with other and sharing constructive criticism not brutal honesty.
Interestingly, Cole writes about another author who is not named who was also writing a book at the same time. I thought it might be Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic. Big Magic is generally about the creative process it isn't as much of a how to write a novel as this.
There's no reason you can't read all three. You would do well to read this first.
October 19, 2017
I have wanted to write since I was a child in school. It seems like there was always another world going on in my head. I wrote out some stories in school. As life went on I continued to write but not sharing. I never thought I was good enough or knew enough to truly write. This book was perfect for me! I used an entire pad of sticky notes. Page after page have little pink squares on them. There is a wealth of information in between the covers. The best part? It is written so you understand and are encouraged. You are encouraged to take the writing class. You are encouraged to write. You are encouraged to share what you write. You are told not everyone will like it. You are told you probably won't be great. You are told to write anyway. The author is herself a writing instructor as well as author. She truly gives a solid look at writing. More important she gives a solid look at being happy writing. It is the most motivational and helpful writing book, I have read. You come away encouraged and ready to start writing. You may have already started by doing the exercises in the book. I did which is why it took so long to finish the book. In honesty, I am not done with it. I don't think I will ever be done with it. I keep going back and over things and doing the exercises mentioned, this way then that way. If you write, want to write, are intimidated to write, buy this book. You will grow from it and will probably use it over and over.
I was offered this book for review purposes. Thank you to Joni B. Cole for providing a copy of it for an honest review. I am giving copies for Christmas to a my son and a few others who want to write but aren't confident. I know they will find it to be a writer's treasure.
I was offered this book for review purposes. Thank you to Joni B. Cole for providing a copy of it for an honest review. I am giving copies for Christmas to a my son and a few others who want to write but aren't confident. I know they will find it to be a writer's treasure.
September 6, 2017
I found this book extremely helpful, just from the sheer fact that the author agrees with me that outlines are pure evil. Being a panster, I've never been able to outline and if I was lucky enough to create one, then I pulled my hair out trying to coral the words from the outline onto the page. In "Good Naked" Joni B. Cole has many good tips on what has gone wrong when instances like the above happen and how a change in your perspective can help smooth over the problem. She doesn't use that many exercises, as her book is more a guide in which she shows you a different way to think about writing, a different way to approach your writing. For me the biggest help came in her idea that when it comes to editing, come to the page looking, not for the bad stuff, but for the good stuff. Find the things that are working and see that these things are the foundation for the next chapter, for the book as a whole, etc. This way you are coming to your work thinking of it positively, instead of grumbling and getting all panicky because you're about to pick your soul apart. The change in perspective may be a small one, but anything that gets me closer to sitting down at my desk and seeing my work as something good is awesome in my book.
September 12, 2017
I received this copy as a Goodreads First Read win.
I laughed out loud throughout this book, often while reading during my lunch breaks at work. Coworkers glanced over, curious, until they saw the title of the book, at which point they smiled and nodded, not needing any more explanation as to why this author had me laughing. The title here is enough to clue a reader in to the author's sense of humor.
This is not to say that the author doesn't provide some serious food for thought, or instruction into being a happier, healthier writer, simply that she does it with humor. Do NOT look to this book for firm instructions on your craft of writing. You won't find them here. You WILL find the author's firm beliefs on why writers do not need to be angst-ridden, suffering, starving artists.
My one concern with this book happen to be the 2 points where she directly discusses her view on current political issues. This was a sticky point for 2 reasons, I'm concerned that some readers will get to the first of those two points and stop reading because they disagree with the author politically, regardless of her value as a writing instructor. I'm also concerned that this will "date" the book in the long run. Though, this not being a work of fiction, perhaps it's not as big a concern. The politicians in office right now will not be (many of them) in 20 years, and thus a couple snarky comments aimed those politicians may take a reader - 20 years down the road - out of the mindset of the book as they try to grasp the reasons behind the author's views on a particular name.
I'll definitely recommend this book to other writerly friends, and it will join my other writing reference books above my writing space for those moments when I need a firm kick in the behind or an instructional hand to hold.
I laughed out loud throughout this book, often while reading during my lunch breaks at work. Coworkers glanced over, curious, until they saw the title of the book, at which point they smiled and nodded, not needing any more explanation as to why this author had me laughing. The title here is enough to clue a reader in to the author's sense of humor.
This is not to say that the author doesn't provide some serious food for thought, or instruction into being a happier, healthier writer, simply that she does it with humor. Do NOT look to this book for firm instructions on your craft of writing. You won't find them here. You WILL find the author's firm beliefs on why writers do not need to be angst-ridden, suffering, starving artists.
My one concern with this book happen to be the 2 points where she directly discusses her view on current political issues. This was a sticky point for 2 reasons, I'm concerned that some readers will get to the first of those two points and stop reading because they disagree with the author politically, regardless of her value as a writing instructor. I'm also concerned that this will "date" the book in the long run. Though, this not being a work of fiction, perhaps it's not as big a concern. The politicians in office right now will not be (many of them) in 20 years, and thus a couple snarky comments aimed those politicians may take a reader - 20 years down the road - out of the mindset of the book as they try to grasp the reasons behind the author's views on a particular name.
I'll definitely recommend this book to other writerly friends, and it will join my other writing reference books above my writing space for those moments when I need a firm kick in the behind or an instructional hand to hold.
April 25, 2017
Inspirational - and practical
Joni is funny, smart, and inspiring. She had me laughing out loud every few pages, and smiling almost every page.
More importantly, Joni debunks many of the poisonous myths that have plagued the writing community for decades. As an English major in college, I had such negative experiences in creative writing classes that I didn't write again for thirty years.
Then I met Joni, and began participating in her workshops. Through her instruction, and by osmosis in the wonderful, inspring learning atmosphere she creates in her workshops, I unlearned the bad stuff and learned how positive an experience writing can be. In her workshops and elsewhere, guided by her passion and motivated by her enthusiasm, I've written three books: a novel, a book of memoir and essays, and a book of poetry. Writing, revising, and bringing each book to completion has been a powerful and very positive experience for me - experiences I would never have had if not for Joni.
For those not fortunate enough to be able to participate in Joni's workshops, this book is a way to experience the same kind of positive, creativity-reinforcing, motivating philosophy and instruction which I and many others have experienced in her company.
If you've ever wondered if you might be a writer, or longed to put words on the page but weren't sure how to start, please get this book. And start having fun whlie writing.
Joni is funny, smart, and inspiring. She had me laughing out loud every few pages, and smiling almost every page.
More importantly, Joni debunks many of the poisonous myths that have plagued the writing community for decades. As an English major in college, I had such negative experiences in creative writing classes that I didn't write again for thirty years.
Then I met Joni, and began participating in her workshops. Through her instruction, and by osmosis in the wonderful, inspring learning atmosphere she creates in her workshops, I unlearned the bad stuff and learned how positive an experience writing can be. In her workshops and elsewhere, guided by her passion and motivated by her enthusiasm, I've written three books: a novel, a book of memoir and essays, and a book of poetry. Writing, revising, and bringing each book to completion has been a powerful and very positive experience for me - experiences I would never have had if not for Joni.
For those not fortunate enough to be able to participate in Joni's workshops, this book is a way to experience the same kind of positive, creativity-reinforcing, motivating philosophy and instruction which I and many others have experienced in her company.
If you've ever wondered if you might be a writer, or longed to put words on the page but weren't sure how to start, please get this book. And start having fun whlie writing.
June 29, 2017
Check out my full review on http://rosegreybooks.com/book-review-5/.
July 1, 2019
Hilarious, engaging, inspiring, and FULL of insight, advice, and helpful reminders. A beautiful book on the craft, grit, and the divine mysteries behind the creation of decent writing.
April 28, 2017
Just the encouragement I needed at the right time.
July 17, 2017
FANTASTIC! ! ! Any and every woman who wants to feel a part of the Human race, on good days and bad, should read this book! Joni takes an ordinary day and makes it extraordinary! Her writing talent speaks for itself: so clear, crisp, comedic and conversational!
She is not to be missed. I laughed throughout each chapter and found myself nodding in agreement and wanting to "talk back" as in "discuss" and have a pajama party with the author! She brings out the best in us by writing with candor, authenticity and intelligence
unparalleled in most books of this genre.
BUY THIS BOOK, NOW! ! ! You'll feel better, walk with a skip in your step and learn more about life, love and YOURSELF! A++++! !
She is not to be missed. I laughed throughout each chapter and found myself nodding in agreement and wanting to "talk back" as in "discuss" and have a pajama party with the author! She brings out the best in us by writing with candor, authenticity and intelligence
unparalleled in most books of this genre.
BUY THIS BOOK, NOW! ! ! You'll feel better, walk with a skip in your step and learn more about life, love and YOURSELF! A++++! !
January 28, 2020
I absolutely adore Joni Cole’s books (I previously read Toxic Feedback, equally delightful). She has a way of explaining the intricacies of the writing life that we don’t always know how to articulate, and she does it in such a funny, relatable way. You feel like you’re having a conversation with your best friend, if you are unlucky enough to have a best friend who’s a writer (haha jk, but we are at times a little intense). Highly recommend for anyone from the person looking to breathe a little more joy into their writing practice, to the person who’s never written a word, and everyone in between!
July 1, 2019
This is a conversational, comforting book about writing. It's full of anecdotes and is perfect for reading with a cup of tea or a glass of wine, to feel understood in your struggles and to help spark inspiration or a new technique. I found the author's voice and perspective on writing and feedback to be both endearing and encouraging. Keeping this one on the shelf to refer to in years to come!
April 16, 2017
Reading Joni Cole’s latest book is like having a wise, clever and very funny friend hold your hand as you make your way down a writerly path. Yes, I know I should strike “very” from that sentence, but I can’t bring myself to do it. If you read GOOD NAKED you’ll see why.
February 19, 2026
Good Naked is one of the most refreshing books on writing I have ever read. Instead of adding pressure or mystique to the creative process, Joni B. Cole makes it feel human, doable, and even joyful.
What really stayed with me is her idea of being “good naked” sharing early drafts without shame. That concept alone shifted how I think about writing. Rather than waiting for perfection, she encourages honesty, vulnerability, and momentum. The advice feels practical and grounded, not abstract or intimidating.
Cole’s tone is warm and humorous, which makes the lessons easy to absorb. She tackles the common struggles every writer faces procrastination, self-doubt, fear of sharing work, and offers simple strategies that actually make sense. It never feels preachy. It feels like guidance from someone who understands the messy reality of the writing life.
I also appreciated that the book goes beyond motivation and includes real craft insight. It is not just about writing more, but about writing better.
If you have ever stared at a blank page with dread, this book feels like a friend pulling up a chair beside you and saying, You can do this. And somehow, after reading it, you believe that you can.
What really stayed with me is her idea of being “good naked” sharing early drafts without shame. That concept alone shifted how I think about writing. Rather than waiting for perfection, she encourages honesty, vulnerability, and momentum. The advice feels practical and grounded, not abstract or intimidating.
Cole’s tone is warm and humorous, which makes the lessons easy to absorb. She tackles the common struggles every writer faces procrastination, self-doubt, fear of sharing work, and offers simple strategies that actually make sense. It never feels preachy. It feels like guidance from someone who understands the messy reality of the writing life.
I also appreciated that the book goes beyond motivation and includes real craft insight. It is not just about writing more, but about writing better.
If you have ever stared at a blank page with dread, this book feels like a friend pulling up a chair beside you and saying, You can do this. And somehow, after reading it, you believe that you can.
August 20, 2023
This book is fantastic! I've read it multiple times. It’s smart, witty, and a must-read for all writers—seasoned or newbie. Each time I put the book down, I was excited to get to my computer and start writing.
So many writing books are focused on teaching “how-to” craft, but Cole’s book goes beyond that. She meets writers wherever they are at in the writing process or experience and speaks to the spirit of the writer.
I also highly recommend this book as a teaching tool for creative writing teachers and writing groups. It’s a must have for a writing teacher’s syllabus. Even college composition classes could benefit from Cole’s advice on sparking creativity or learning how to deal with—and offer—positive feedback on writing.
Whether you are a new writer, a published author, or just dabbling in the writer’s realm, Joni helps you find the confidence and comfort to just keep trying. This will be a book I wear the binding out on.
So many writing books are focused on teaching “how-to” craft, but Cole’s book goes beyond that. She meets writers wherever they are at in the writing process or experience and speaks to the spirit of the writer.
I also highly recommend this book as a teaching tool for creative writing teachers and writing groups. It’s a must have for a writing teacher’s syllabus. Even college composition classes could benefit from Cole’s advice on sparking creativity or learning how to deal with—and offer—positive feedback on writing.
Whether you are a new writer, a published author, or just dabbling in the writer’s realm, Joni helps you find the confidence and comfort to just keep trying. This will be a book I wear the binding out on.
August 13, 2017
This book felt more like a short autobiography to me. It was very different from the many self-help books for writers that I have read so far. While I appreciated the tips and tricks that Joni B. Cole laid out for many writers, I felt that it was lacking something. If you are looking for a how-to guide to get you out of your writing funk...this is probably not the book for you. If you are more interested in positive reinforcements in literary form- then you'll love this book!
January 30, 2018
There's a lot of information I liked in this book. Cole definitely expresses advice and criticism that I agree with. And while I think this was the right book for me at the time, I don't think I learned much from reading it. Still, I'd recommend it to the reluctant writer, or the writer in a slump.
April 23, 2023
Ms. Cole writes with humor and good solid knowledge of her subject. It's the perfect combination because writing can be hard and frustrating. An excellent choice for any writer still trying to figure out what the heck they're doing, and why.
May 9, 2018
I heard this writer speak and it made me want to get the book so I could understand her more, what she was saying. Glad I did. Some good stuff.
March 29, 2020
The author presents a fresh perspective on the writing process that I found inspiring. This book really got me thinking.
Did I like it? Yes.
Would I reread it? Maybe.
Would I recommend it? Yes.
Did I like it? Yes.
Would I reread it? Maybe.
Would I recommend it? Yes.
September 8, 2022
Full of useful and insightful information, but also just a really fun read - lots of positivity and humour that helps the reader absorb and remember the salient points.
July 17, 2017
If you have writer's block, this book could be a great help. The book has many tips and tricks that may help authors in the middle of writing, editing, and more. Sound advice peppered with humor. What more could you want? I wish I could enjoy workshops with this author in person. She's tough and honest, just what most writers need.
January 4, 2023
I loved reading this book! Every time I finished a chapter I wanted to shout, "Yeah! Yeah! I know exactly what you’re talking about!” Then I felt compelled to put the book down and go write.
I read the first edition of this book when it first came out. That was around the same time I first tried my hand at writing fiction. But you know how it is when you meet someone and they tell you about a notable experience they've had that you have not had? You nod and listen but you might sometimes struggle to relate and perhaps not remember everything they've said. That’s sort of how I remember feeling after I read the first edition—which I only possessed briefly anyway because my copy was “borrowed” soon after I read it (by a writing teacher no less, who then moved away!).
On the other hand, if you meet someone and discover that you've both had the same notable experience more or less, a wonderful conversation is likely to follow. That was my experience while reading the revised edition of this book: Why yes, I too have wasted whole days “getting ready to write” and then not gotten around to writing! I too have sat down to write with good intentions, only to have a complete meltdown when the phone rings! I too have struggled to stay motivated and have experienced guilt for not writing more. Of course I’ve blamed my employment, holidays, housework, and social obligations for lack of progress. Of course I’ve had times when my whole project seems like a waste of time and I wonder who would be interested in what I write anyway. You too, aye? We have so much in common, Ms. Cole! So please tell me, how have you dealt with all of this?
The author freely shares her insights on all of the above and much more, and always with a wonderful sense of humor. I especially enjoyed the chapter on revising and editing, which I am in the midst of doing these days. Apparently, I’m doing it right—it is supposed to take a really long time!
If you’ve been working on your writing, you might want give this book a read. It’s bound to make you write more and feel better about what you’re doing!
I read the first edition of this book when it first came out. That was around the same time I first tried my hand at writing fiction. But you know how it is when you meet someone and they tell you about a notable experience they've had that you have not had? You nod and listen but you might sometimes struggle to relate and perhaps not remember everything they've said. That’s sort of how I remember feeling after I read the first edition—which I only possessed briefly anyway because my copy was “borrowed” soon after I read it (by a writing teacher no less, who then moved away!).
On the other hand, if you meet someone and discover that you've both had the same notable experience more or less, a wonderful conversation is likely to follow. That was my experience while reading the revised edition of this book: Why yes, I too have wasted whole days “getting ready to write” and then not gotten around to writing! I too have sat down to write with good intentions, only to have a complete meltdown when the phone rings! I too have struggled to stay motivated and have experienced guilt for not writing more. Of course I’ve blamed my employment, holidays, housework, and social obligations for lack of progress. Of course I’ve had times when my whole project seems like a waste of time and I wonder who would be interested in what I write anyway. You too, aye? We have so much in common, Ms. Cole! So please tell me, how have you dealt with all of this?
The author freely shares her insights on all of the above and much more, and always with a wonderful sense of humor. I especially enjoyed the chapter on revising and editing, which I am in the midst of doing these days. Apparently, I’m doing it right—it is supposed to take a really long time!
If you’ve been working on your writing, you might want give this book a read. It’s bound to make you write more and feel better about what you’re doing!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews