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Craft, Cost & Call: How to Build a Life as a Christian Writer
Inspiring and immensely readable, Craft, Cost & Call offers hands-on help to people of faith who want to write well and understand what it takes to be published. For writers yearning to grow in their craft or hoping to launch a writing career, this unique guidebook provides a clear path forward filled with the hard-won wisdom of long-time and widely-published Christian writers.
From the beauty of the call to write and insights on how to be published, the authors take their readers on a journey both practical and personal. Readers will find clear direction on writing with excellence and beauty, and "Try this" challenges that will move any aspiring writer out of their armchair and into their writing chair. Far from a manual, Craft, Cost & Call reads as a heartfelt conversation between writers, guiding, encouraging, and cheering others on to success....
From the beauty of the call to write and insights on how to be published, the authors take their readers on a journey both practical and personal. Readers will find clear direction on writing with excellence and beauty, and "Try this" challenges that will move any aspiring writer out of their armchair and into their writing chair. Far from a manual, Craft, Cost & Call reads as a heartfelt conversation between writers, guiding, encouraging, and cheering others on to success....
- GenresNonfiction
198 pages, Hardcover
Published September 4, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 23, 2020
I've just finished reading the book. I kept turning pages (of the print book) and reading more. Love the forthright advice and also about the authors' experiences and blunders. Humour wisely added. New writers will learn well from Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller, and I'll recommend this book.
I have met and admired these two authors at past writer's conferences. They write with humility and grace, offering excellent advice to new writers.
I have met and admired these two authors at past writer's conferences. They write with humility and grace, offering excellent advice to new writers.
November 2, 2019
Two award-winning Canadian Christian freelance writers, Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller, have teamed up to share what they describe as “our conversation with you about what we have learned through success and failure.” [Kindle location 98]
The book feels very much like a conversation, candidly sharing experience and advice. Beginning and intermediate writers will gain the most, but even seasoned pros may pick up a thing or two.
The “craft” section deals mainly with nonfiction, mostly articles, yet I’ve gleaned inspiration and encouragement I can apply to my fiction. The “cost” section includes practical business tips relevant to all, and “call” addresses the spiritual side of writing. What struck me most in that part was this quote:
Reading this book made me want to go write something.
Writers are invited to visit CraftCostCall.com (https://www.craftcostcall.com/) for “more writing exercises, resources, and conversation about building a life as a Christian writer.” [Kindle location 2129] This virtual watercooler could become a very good place to hang out.
Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller have solid backgrounds in writing and editing, with articles and books and awards to their names. These two authors illustrate the truth that while writing is often a solitary activity, it requires community. Having benefited from other writers along the way, they’ve prepared this book to mentor others. And they’re donating a portion of proceeds from Craft, Cost & Call to The Word Guild, an association of writers and editors who are Christian.
[Review copy from my personal library.]
The book feels very much like a conversation, candidly sharing experience and advice. Beginning and intermediate writers will gain the most, but even seasoned pros may pick up a thing or two.
The “craft” section deals mainly with nonfiction, mostly articles, yet I’ve gleaned inspiration and encouragement I can apply to my fiction. The “cost” section includes practical business tips relevant to all, and “call” addresses the spiritual side of writing. What struck me most in that part was this quote:
View your platform as the place from which you live out your calling to be a writer and to serve your readers. [Kindle location 1865]
Reading this book made me want to go write something.
Writers are invited to visit CraftCostCall.com (https://www.craftcostcall.com/) for “more writing exercises, resources, and conversation about building a life as a Christian writer.” [Kindle location 2129] This virtual watercooler could become a very good place to hang out.
Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller have solid backgrounds in writing and editing, with articles and books and awards to their names. These two authors illustrate the truth that while writing is often a solitary activity, it requires community. Having benefited from other writers along the way, they’ve prepared this book to mentor others. And they’re donating a portion of proceeds from Craft, Cost & Call to The Word Guild, an association of writers and editors who are Christian.
[Review copy from my personal library.]
September 27, 2019
A pleasure to read. The book is rich with details about the writing life. The authors have a partnership that gives the book a deeper understanding of the complexities of writing. The prose is conversational - as if you are in the room sharing the discussion. Recommend for all writers at any level or anyone who reads about writers lives.
December 3, 2020
Generous Know-How for Writers
The consistent ‘how-to’ wisdom and generous practicality found in these pages is characteristic of its many ‘life-building’ sections. Grouped under the title’s three headings, succinct sections give reader-writers clear topic access. How easy it is to find the requisite ‘know-how’, for instance, How to quote on a project or How to do great interviews.
In my favourite section, Where do great ideas come from, the authors offer startling advice: “write what you don’t know, and watch the world of writing open up to you.” This challenge counterpoises the more usual coaching to ‘write what you know’. Listing many subjects covered in their respective twenty-plus years of professional writing, the authors underscore their point, saying: “We aren’t experts in those fields. We are writers.”
As a budding writer, I am pleased to confirm this surprising insight about ‘world-opening’ vantage points. Their capable-writer emphasis supported one of my own intensely researched writing projects in a field totally new to me.
Filled with concentrated essentials, this book effectively conveys those many elements needed to build a successful writing life.
What a delight to discover this book, courtesy of the Ottawa Christian Writers’ Fellowship, a local chapter of The Word Guild.
The consistent ‘how-to’ wisdom and generous practicality found in these pages is characteristic of its many ‘life-building’ sections. Grouped under the title’s three headings, succinct sections give reader-writers clear topic access. How easy it is to find the requisite ‘know-how’, for instance, How to quote on a project or How to do great interviews.
In my favourite section, Where do great ideas come from, the authors offer startling advice: “write what you don’t know, and watch the world of writing open up to you.” This challenge counterpoises the more usual coaching to ‘write what you know’. Listing many subjects covered in their respective twenty-plus years of professional writing, the authors underscore their point, saying: “We aren’t experts in those fields. We are writers.”
As a budding writer, I am pleased to confirm this surprising insight about ‘world-opening’ vantage points. Their capable-writer emphasis supported one of my own intensely researched writing projects in a field totally new to me.
Filled with concentrated essentials, this book effectively conveys those many elements needed to build a successful writing life.
What a delight to discover this book, courtesy of the Ottawa Christian Writers’ Fellowship, a local chapter of The Word Guild.
January 28, 2021
What a helpful book. It really didn’t dive deep but just simply reminding me of the most basic and important facets of the writing life. I appreciated their personal stories, their attention to detail and awareness of the struggle that the writing life can be. They focus on details that faith writers might come across as well and that was very helpful.
October 11, 2019
In Craft, Cost & Call: How to Build a Life as a Christian Writer veteran writers Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller have created a handy volume that explores the technical, business and spiritual aspects of life as a Christian writer.
But first, a word of disclosure: Karen and Patricia are colleagues and friends. At varying times in our careers I’ve been assigned stories and been edited by Karen, assigned and edited stories by Patricia, interviewed them about books they’ve written and shared stories on the joys and tribulations of writing wit them at various writers’ conferences. And they know that in a review, I wouldn’t hesitate to mince words on their work.
But I have no words to mince.
And neither do Patricia and Karen mince words: “It is hard work to be a writer,” they say in the introduction. But they end that thought with: “But it is worth it.”
The longest, and probably most detailed portion of the book, is the section titled “Craft.” Karen and Patricia have boiled their combined 40 years of experience as writers down into about 80 pages of advice on practically every technical aspect of the writing life. Topics such as how to query an editor to how to do a great interview are dealt with clearly and succinctly, with plenty of real-life examples. Their short asides, titled “A Writer’s Life” are personal examples of their success, and failures, in the various areas they are writing about. This behind-the-scenes look strips away the mystique with which novice writers often view their more experienced kin and allows them to see how we all make mistakes…but more importantly, how we learn from those mistakes.
“Cost” looks at the business of writing, an element which writers often do poorly or try to avoid at all costs. While they don’t claim to make this painless, the tips they provide, again with personal examples, help take the sting out of an important part of the writing life.
While “Call” is the shortest section of the book, it is by no means the least. “As writers who are Christian, we also believe that ours – and yours – is a special calling,” they write, noting “There has never been a more critical time for the church, and her writers, to write true and to write beautifully.”
With Craft, Cost & Call Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller has given generations of writers the tools they need to fulfill their call as writers who are Christian, This is a book that should take its place alongside Strunk & White’s Elements of Style and William Zissner’s On Writing Well on the reference shelf of any Christian writer.
But first, a word of disclosure: Karen and Patricia are colleagues and friends. At varying times in our careers I’ve been assigned stories and been edited by Karen, assigned and edited stories by Patricia, interviewed them about books they’ve written and shared stories on the joys and tribulations of writing wit them at various writers’ conferences. And they know that in a review, I wouldn’t hesitate to mince words on their work.
But I have no words to mince.
And neither do Patricia and Karen mince words: “It is hard work to be a writer,” they say in the introduction. But they end that thought with: “But it is worth it.”
The longest, and probably most detailed portion of the book, is the section titled “Craft.” Karen and Patricia have boiled their combined 40 years of experience as writers down into about 80 pages of advice on practically every technical aspect of the writing life. Topics such as how to query an editor to how to do a great interview are dealt with clearly and succinctly, with plenty of real-life examples. Their short asides, titled “A Writer’s Life” are personal examples of their success, and failures, in the various areas they are writing about. This behind-the-scenes look strips away the mystique with which novice writers often view their more experienced kin and allows them to see how we all make mistakes…but more importantly, how we learn from those mistakes.
“Cost” looks at the business of writing, an element which writers often do poorly or try to avoid at all costs. While they don’t claim to make this painless, the tips they provide, again with personal examples, help take the sting out of an important part of the writing life.
While “Call” is the shortest section of the book, it is by no means the least. “As writers who are Christian, we also believe that ours – and yours – is a special calling,” they write, noting “There has never been a more critical time for the church, and her writers, to write true and to write beautifully.”
With Craft, Cost & Call Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller has given generations of writers the tools they need to fulfill their call as writers who are Christian, This is a book that should take its place alongside Strunk & White’s Elements of Style and William Zissner’s On Writing Well on the reference shelf of any Christian writer.
February 27, 2020
Craft, Cost & Call: How to Build a Life as a Christian Writer
Writers of any background will find encouragement in this concise, witty book. With candor and empathy co-authors Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller generously share from both their trials and triumphs as freelance writers, editors and communication consultants.
Whatever one’s proficiency, whatever one’s faith, the mind of a writer juggles creative tension amid a clash of ego, self doubt and the need to promote. Paddey and Stiller’s authentic and relatable work bursts with tips and implementable solutions to tackle many issues, such as procrastination, marketing, writing style, organization and even self-care. An enjoyable read, ‘Craft, Cost and Call: How to build a Life as a Christian Writer’ is a great resource for anyone called to write.
I was introduced to this book through the Ottawa Christian Writers’ Fellowship which is a local chapter of The Word Guild.
Writers of any background will find encouragement in this concise, witty book. With candor and empathy co-authors Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller generously share from both their trials and triumphs as freelance writers, editors and communication consultants.
Whatever one’s proficiency, whatever one’s faith, the mind of a writer juggles creative tension amid a clash of ego, self doubt and the need to promote. Paddey and Stiller’s authentic and relatable work bursts with tips and implementable solutions to tackle many issues, such as procrastination, marketing, writing style, organization and even self-care. An enjoyable read, ‘Craft, Cost and Call: How to build a Life as a Christian Writer’ is a great resource for anyone called to write.
I was introduced to this book through the Ottawa Christian Writers’ Fellowship which is a local chapter of The Word Guild.
February 24, 2020
For anyone who is serious about developing a career as a Christian writer, this book is a true gem. From start to finish, authors Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller provide a host of tips, and sound advice that can benefit any writer. This holds true for the novice writer as well as the grizzled veteran.
The book is broadly divided into three sections: craft, cost and call, that match the title. The authors don't hold back in exposing both their successes and failures as writers. It's great to see your own struggles mirrored by these two professionals. There is an integrity and a candor to their writing that I truly admire.
I was left wanting more from these two authors, especially in section on our God-given call to write. But I see wanting more as a good thing.
For anyone on the writing journey I highly recommend this book. I was introduced to this book through the Ottawa Christian Writers' Fellowship, which is a local chapter of The Word Guild.
The book is broadly divided into three sections: craft, cost and call, that match the title. The authors don't hold back in exposing both their successes and failures as writers. It's great to see your own struggles mirrored by these two professionals. There is an integrity and a candor to their writing that I truly admire.
I was left wanting more from these two authors, especially in section on our God-given call to write. But I see wanting more as a good thing.
For anyone on the writing journey I highly recommend this book. I was introduced to this book through the Ottawa Christian Writers' Fellowship, which is a local chapter of The Word Guild.
February 4, 2020
Generous, Uncomplicated and Sublime Wisdom
It was too good to be true. Long walks, sleeping, devouring good books, becoming a student of the details all around. These were the droplets of advice dripping in my readied bucket. As I read, my bucket filled and with it, joy. It was all too indulgent! Too permissive to this writer’s soul. I took my brimming bucket outside to spill. I would put to test their words of experiential wisdom. A long winter walk brought exquisite delight in the understated all around. The inane became ridiculously fascinating. Pad in hand, I scribbled it all on paper, following their lead and gleaning from their instruction. My verdict? Tried and true!
Without a hint of greed or reserve, Paddey and Stiller generously share their jewels and most secret treasures. I, for one, have taken the pearls and wear them proudly.
I discovered this book courtesy of The Ottawa Christian Writer’s Fellowship, a local chapter of The Word Guild Canada.
Lauren Roth, a sapling writer
It was too good to be true. Long walks, sleeping, devouring good books, becoming a student of the details all around. These were the droplets of advice dripping in my readied bucket. As I read, my bucket filled and with it, joy. It was all too indulgent! Too permissive to this writer’s soul. I took my brimming bucket outside to spill. I would put to test their words of experiential wisdom. A long winter walk brought exquisite delight in the understated all around. The inane became ridiculously fascinating. Pad in hand, I scribbled it all on paper, following their lead and gleaning from their instruction. My verdict? Tried and true!
Without a hint of greed or reserve, Paddey and Stiller generously share their jewels and most secret treasures. I, for one, have taken the pearls and wear them proudly.
I discovered this book courtesy of The Ottawa Christian Writer’s Fellowship, a local chapter of The Word Guild Canada.
Lauren Roth, a sapling writer
September 2, 2023
Inspiring and Encouraging
I enjoyed discovering the treasurers in the book Craft, Cost & Call by by co-authors — Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller, particularly the variety of topics, the wisdom and also the insight from a famous person. I genuinely sensed that both authors want to help other writers. Plus, they wish to continue to help writers. Overall, I was inspired and encouraged by this reading experience.I would highly recommend reading this book, in addition to gifting the book to other writers. In my opinion, it is a must read.
I enjoyed discovering the treasurers in the book Craft, Cost & Call by by co-authors — Patricia Paddey and Karen Stiller, particularly the variety of topics, the wisdom and also the insight from a famous person. I genuinely sensed that both authors want to help other writers. Plus, they wish to continue to help writers. Overall, I was inspired and encouraged by this reading experience.I would highly recommend reading this book, in addition to gifting the book to other writers. In my opinion, it is a must read.
August 17, 2021
My review in 3 words or more: encouraging | informative | scrappy and accessible
I learned about this book during a writing webinar hosted by author Karen Stiller. (I’ve written about her book here.) I saw and inhaled the book as a wonderful companion to the teaching and inspiration Stiller offered in the webinar. The book written by two writers who are Christians and also friends offers a wonderful balance of literation inspiration, practical (and fun) next steps and warm, lighthearted-yet-meaningful encouragement.
If for no other reason, the title “Craft, Cost, and Call” captured my interest at this particular stage of my writing life. (I’ve begun asking writers “yes, but what has this calling cost you?”) I’m an avid observer of chapter titles and book frameworks and this book gives the gift of direction on the Table of Contents page alone.
Craft
What is good writing
How to query and editor
How to do great interviews
Outline and structuring: boring and life-changing
How to edit your own work
Cost
A business strategy
What writers are paid
Invoicing
Call
A special call
Spiritual care as a writer
More here: https://www.tamarahillmurphy.com/blog...
I learned about this book during a writing webinar hosted by author Karen Stiller. (I’ve written about her book here.) I saw and inhaled the book as a wonderful companion to the teaching and inspiration Stiller offered in the webinar. The book written by two writers who are Christians and also friends offers a wonderful balance of literation inspiration, practical (and fun) next steps and warm, lighthearted-yet-meaningful encouragement.
If for no other reason, the title “Craft, Cost, and Call” captured my interest at this particular stage of my writing life. (I’ve begun asking writers “yes, but what has this calling cost you?”) I’m an avid observer of chapter titles and book frameworks and this book gives the gift of direction on the Table of Contents page alone.
Craft
What is good writing
How to query and editor
How to do great interviews
Outline and structuring: boring and life-changing
How to edit your own work
Cost
A business strategy
What writers are paid
Invoicing
Call
A special call
Spiritual care as a writer
More here: https://www.tamarahillmurphy.com/blog...
August 25, 2023
Craft, cost and call is a gem!
It is realistic book about the life of a Christian writer in Canada. The two authors have worked together for many years. They show their vulnerability and sense of humour in their personal anecdote.
The book is divided into three parts. The first part: Craft deals with the craft of writing. It discusses such topics as: What is good writing? Read well and widely, Deconstructing articles and the mechanics of writing articles such as how to take notes. How to interview, how to edit your work.
The second part: Cost discusses the business of being a writer. It covers such topics as: a business strategy, writing routines, deadlines, how writers are paid, partnerships.
The third part: Call discusses the difference between a writer of faith and a general freelance writer. Topics such as spiritual care of the writer and how to grow as a writer are discussed.
At the end of the book is a two-page reference section that gives the reader resources to follow up. Each chapter of the book ends with tips: try this and anecdotes about the authors showing a writers life.
It is realistic book about the life of a Christian writer in Canada. The two authors have worked together for many years. They show their vulnerability and sense of humour in their personal anecdote.
The book is divided into three parts. The first part: Craft deals with the craft of writing. It discusses such topics as: What is good writing? Read well and widely, Deconstructing articles and the mechanics of writing articles such as how to take notes. How to interview, how to edit your work.
The second part: Cost discusses the business of being a writer. It covers such topics as: a business strategy, writing routines, deadlines, how writers are paid, partnerships.
The third part: Call discusses the difference between a writer of faith and a general freelance writer. Topics such as spiritual care of the writer and how to grow as a writer are discussed.
At the end of the book is a two-page reference section that gives the reader resources to follow up. Each chapter of the book ends with tips: try this and anecdotes about the authors showing a writers life.
May 9, 2023
This is not a book to languish on my shelf—I return to it occasionally as questions arise. Engaging and concise, it helps walk a first-time author through a bewildering world. The voices of experience provide practical advice and enlightenment on many subjects, some I had yet to consider. And did I mention it's a delightful read? Thank you, ladies, for sharing your wisdom with those who aspire to write and write well and for accompanying me on my journey.
January 20, 2021
Stiller and Paddey demystify all the nooks and crannies of the freelance writing life while dispensing hard won wisdom and never straying into a flippant, jokey, or patronizing tone. Their advice, instead of focusing primarily on the artistic writing life, is about the straws that will break the camel's back - how to set up an office, where to spend your time and money, how to seek inspiration, the all important self-care, pride, ego and invoicing. I feel like I've sat through an especially worthwhile conference and am turning to my friend as we gather our coats, to say "that was well worth the ticket price."
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews