If You Want to Write (Abridged): Thoughts About Art, Independence, and Spirit Audiobook

" "If You Want to Write" is a really encouraging, deep and beautiful! My only wish is that it wasn't abridged. But at the same time, what is in the audiobook is worth repeated, careful listening and application to your own writing (or any other creative endeavor). "

" So far, I LOVE IT! "

" Just listened to the audio-book version ready by Pat Carroll (Ursula the Sea Witch in Disney's Little Mermaid)---what an uplifting and joyful experience. I can listen to Pat Carroll's reading over and over. "

" I've never read a book as packed cover to cover with gentle encouragement for artists. Brenda Ueland clearly loved people, loved art, and believed in the potential of anyone who wanted to create or express what they saw in life. A must-read for any writer's shelf. Written many decades ago and other than a few dated technology and fashion references, as relevant now as it ever was, particularly for women who undervalue their art and themselves. "

" A very good book, especially for someone looking for motivation and encouragement to start writing. "

" great book for every writer. "

" Brenda Ueland. How I wish I'd known her. One of my favorite books about writing. "

" If You Want to Write was first lent to me many months ago but only recently did I actually read it. This was a great example of reading the right book at the right time. "

" This is a spunky, inspiring, tell-it-like it is classic I go back to again and again. My favorite line goes something like (I'm paraphrasing here), "If you don't like a story you've written. No matter. Go on to the next." "

" read it a long time ago; a classic and in my library; i love Brenda Ueland "

" I loved every word and found it very inspirational. My favorite section was when she talked about "Why Renaissance Noblemen Wrote Sonnets." Hint: It wasn't to see them published. I've been in a funk since my last book was published and this really lifted my spirits. "

" This book is quite motivational & delightful to read. Towards the end some of the endless examples of writing did begin to get a bit tedious to me, but that's only a small complaint, the book overall is awesome. "

" Both delightful and thought-provoking. A refreshingly honest take on creativity. "

" if you are a writer.. let your soul be enlightened! "

" You could subtitute the title word "write" for just about anything and Ueland will make you believe you can do it... "

" Essential for those wanting to do anything creative with their lives. "

" This book teaches you to write from your brilliant, unpretentious, unashamed conscience. Ueland shows how discouragement, personal misconceptions, and general fear keeps us from the art of writing--personal expression with imagination and passion. "

" Involved in any creative endeavors(or should be)? Do yourself a favor and read this book. "

" Funny, inspiring and right on!!!! "

" Written in the 1930s, this is more inspirational than practical, but valuable nonetheless. "

" Loved this books on how to write. It also is like having therapy. If you want to write -- this is the book to read! "

" Practical and inspirational advice on how to live the life of a writer, and how to write what is true and genuine and original. I hope I can do it. "

" A book about writing, but also a book about living with truth. This is not a "how-to-write" manual but is a reminder of why we write. "

" Also a good read - glad I read it immediately after Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg - good combination. "

" My all time favorite...easy to read yet so in line with my thinking as to why i write... "

" The single greatest book on the craft of writing (I know pretty bold!). "

" Amuse-read for those trying to find their voice in any creative endeavor. "

" This was an interesting but slightly boring read. It took me ages to read it because I kept falling asleep! But really it had interesting points! "

" This is an outstanding book. Anyone who wants or needs a little encouragement and reassurance about how creative, talented, and good a writer you really are should read this book. "

" This is by far one of the best and most useful and inspiring books I have ever read. If you are a writer or artist of any kind being a cook or quilter or if you teach anything at all this book is a staple for your life. Everyone and anyone could benefit from reading this! "

" My recommendation for those who want or love writing. In this book, Brenda describes the writing skill as an art of telling your stories/opinions. "

" Best book on writing and life "

" For is intended purpose, this book should get more than five stars. For aspiring writers who have waded through book after book of writing guidelines, analysis, how-to's of the craft - this one will save you. "

" This is a spunky, inspiring, tell-it-like it is classic I go back to again and again. My favorite line goes something like (I'm paraphrasing here), "If you don't like a story you've written. No matter. Go on to the next." "