B. Zelkovich’s Reviews > Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life > Status Update
B. Zelkovich
is 44% done
I'm still enjoying this, but I'm not sure I agree with Smith's repeated proclamation that she "doesn't read to be comforted. [She] reads to be challenged."
Like... yes. Sure. But why can reading only do one thing? Can't some works comfort while others challenge? And why does she say she reads to be challenged as if that somehow elevates her status as a reader, and therefore as a writer?
Right now, this chafes...
— Jan 03, 2026 10:14AM
Like... yes. Sure. But why can reading only do one thing? Can't some works comfort while others challenge? And why does she say she reads to be challenged as if that somehow elevates her status as a reader, and therefore as a writer?
Right now, this chafes...
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B.’s Previous Updates
B. Zelkovich
is 15% done
These writing life books are always pretty hit or miss for me, but so far I'm enjoying Smith's perspective, and honestly a bit surprised by how much we seem to have in common when it comes to creativity.
— Jan 02, 2026 10:04AM
