Bird by Bird (Abridged): Some Instructions on Writing and Life Audiobook

" This was an easy read with some interesting, but not groundbreaking, advice on writing interspersed with stories from Lamott's life. I enjoyed it and there were some good take-away messages. Overall it was a bit too folksy for me and the lessons felt a little monotonous by the end. That being said, I did tear through the book, so that's a major positive. "

" Oh Anne. You just seem to write a high percentage of words that RESONATE with me. I love you, man! "

" A book about writing that was a lot more about living -- Perfect! Anne Lamott has a fun (and at times a bit crude) sense of humor. I appreciate that she was willing to share the paranoia of her thoughts while writing, editing, and waiting to be published. "

" Wonderful book about writing but also about life and writing. Anne Lamott is seriously funny. "

" If you have ever thought about writing, you will be glad you read this. It's laugh-out-loud hilarious. Feels like a big warm hug to the struggling writer of any age or skill. I'll be turning to this for insight and encouragement for the rest of my life. "

" An easy to read, pleasant book about how to begin writing, pitfalls you will face when writing and why you must write. "

" This is one of my favorite books on writing, particularly the title story. When I'm feeling overwhelmed by projects, I try to remember to just start and take it bird by bird. "

" Even if you're not an aspiring writer, it's a good read. "

" Loved this book; it can be used as a self-help on life, not just writing. "

" This is my secondary bible (my main bible is Story by Robert McKee). Lamott gradually, gently unravels the secrets of your neuroses until you understand yourself a little bit better than you ever would have otherwise. "

" Sometimes it's a little too new-age, hippie-dippy for me, but for the most part, I really enjoyed this. Lamott has a lot of great thoughts on writing and the writer's life and she presents them in a straightforward, succinct way. "

" Best practical advice in the whole book was to make time to write. "

" My favorite book on writing. "

" A classic for writers. One I always recommend, if only for "shitty first drafts." Keep this one nearby. "

" Funny and helpful. "

" Best writing book ever. A must read for published and unpublished. "

" Great insight into the craft and agony of writing. "

" Didn't get into her style of writing. Would like to try some of her fiction to see if there is a difference. "

" As a writing instructor, I found the author's suggestions to writers something to keep in mind when working with developing writers. Even though my instruction is geared more toward academic writing rather than creative, some of Lamott's advice will work well with my students. "

" This is a must read for anyone who wants to (or is compelled to) write fiction. I felt that the second half of the book was not quite as useful as the first half, but overall it's a great read for any writer. "

" I love all of her non fiction...I really wish I could love her fiction as much "

" Exactly what the subtext states, a book on writing and life and it does well on both counts. "

" Good advice and unique perspectives into the life of a writer. "

" If you have any aspirations to write, no matter the genre, this is a must read. "

" I love Lamott's way of thinking and writing. The big take away - just start writing about anything and everything; start with childhood... Love writing for the love of writing, not for some pursuit of publication or notoriety. Also, love to read! "

" Simple lessons on practicing writing and learning to write for yourself. "

" Well written and often funny book about how this writer performs her writing process. Nice insight. "

" Finally, some advice by someone who probably prattles on more than I do. "

" Didn't get into her style of writing. Would like to try some of her fiction to see if there is a difference. "

" A loaner for creative writing, this offers insightful and laugh-out-loud anecdotes about writing. The organization is particularly useful. I know I'll be reading aloud from this book in the near future. "