Pocket Workshop: Essays on Living as a Writer

by Tod McCoy, M. Huw Evans (Editor)

Pocket Workshop collects twenty-eight essays by instructors of the Clarion West Writers Workshop — essays that illuminate their authors’ experiences of writing and of living as professional writers.Included here is advice for handling writer’s block, working with voice, and using allegory, as well as methods for scene-setting, landing a good finish, writing despite distractions, mentoring, and so much more.Since 1984, the six-week writer’s workshop has provided resources to more than 600 science fiction, fantasy, and horror writers, many of whom work today as professional and award-winning authors and editors.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction, Crafts

194 pages, Paperback

Published February 9, 2021

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one wins for most enjoyable writing book. I came away with a lot of good ideas for problem-solving both practical and creative, along with some fresh perspectives on storytelling.

[Liz Busby · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think my dissatisfaction with this book has mostly to do with the title. I expected the book to focus on life as a writer, ie practical tips for work/life balance, managing rejection/disappointment, organizing your writing, etc. I got 50% of the way through the book and found most essays to really be writing tips, ie how to write a good ending, effective plot structures, word choice, etc. Since I was looking for what the title said, I was disappointed in getting what I got. The advice itself was not actually bad. I did highlight quite a few things to save for later. But just know that it's not what it says on the tin.

[adeline · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Read for HCSPiP)

Given the title, I thought these essays would have been about life as a writer rather than a writer's life when writing. That being said, it's a cool concept for a collection - I love how much all these writers (and of course, the editors care about the Clarion West Writers Workshop.

Also, after so many years of literary theory, it was cool to read stuff that felt more grounded.

Favorite essays (of the 28):
Samuel R. Delany's "Thickening the Plot"
John Crowley's "The Old Marvellous"
Octavia E. Butler's "Positive Obsession"

[Alvaro Zinos-Amaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent compilation of writerly wisdom and practical advice. Full review forthcoming.

[Joe Mahoney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific collection of mini essays on the craft of writing by many masters of fantasy, science fiction and horror, but applicable to all writers. Full of wisdom, eminently readable, addictive even.

[S.M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were a few gems, but for the most part the essays are for very new writers. (Except for John Crowley’s, because we all need PhDs to keep up with that man.) Still, they’re good essays.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid collection. I only skipped a couple, most had something I could use. This would make a wonderful gift for the young writer in your life.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great pieces on craft from the specific to the broad to the philosophical.