Teen Review of Spilling Ink

My, oh my, it's a blustery day today in the Hundred-Acre Wood. Need a piece of sunshine? Put on your sunglasses and take a look at this cover!
Here's a debut review by Logan S., an 11th grader and Teen Advisory Board member at the Library. Thanks, Logan!
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Spilling Ink: a young writer's handbook isn’t your regular, run-of-the-mill book on how to be a writer. In fact, you’ll likely find it takes much of what you’ve already been taught about writing and hurls it out the window. One of the main reasons the book is sure to spark your interest is simple: authors Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter have successfully made writing seem fun. That’s right—writing can now officially be considered fun.

Another reason the book is so captivating is Mazer and Potter’s ability to strike a satisfying balance between entertainment and education. At one point in the book, the authors advise aspiring writers to take one of the first steps in writing a book: do nothing. Now, at first glance, this advice may seem funny, or maybe even a bit odd. But, rest assured, it’s really a morsel of wisdom in disguise. The authors go on to explain that you already have all you need in order to write. Although we often think otherwise, it’s really not based on external circumstances.

The third reason that you will surely find the book enjoyable is infinitely more profound than the first two. Unlike many other authors in their field, Mazer and Potter focus on the can’s instead of the can'ts. Indeed, Mazer and Potter inspire their readers by showing them how they can write and can succeed.

And for those who are still a bit leery, the authors have even included an “Official Writer’s Permission Slip." Excuses are no longer an option! Also, funny artwork by Matt Phelan accompanies the authors' light and humorous approach throughout the book.

Basically all that’s left to do after reading the book is to snatch up the nearest pad of paper and a handful of pencils and immediately dive into writing America’s next best-selling novel. Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter have done their jobs. Now it’s your turn. It’s time to spill some ink!

"Crisis on the Desktop" by Alan_Cleaver2000

Up next: we'll post an exclusive author interview with Anne Mazer... stay tuned! Also, check out the book's website where you can download an official License to Write, read a creativity blog, ask questions, or find out how to start your own Spilling Ink Writer's Club! (Librarian's note: while this book has been written with a younger audience in mind, adults will also certainly enjoy the wisdom and humor within its pages. Great for aspiring writers and creative writing groups--of all ages!)