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Anne Lamott
Anne Lamott is a novelist and non-fiction writer who focuses on faith, recovery, and the creative process. She is the author of Good Writing: 36 Ways to Improve Your Sent
Bird by Bird
Synopsis
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life is Anne Lamott's widely loved book of writing advice, built around personal anecdotes rather than formal craft rules. Its title comes from a story about her brother, ten years old and overwhelmed by a school report on birds due the next day, whom their father advised simply: "Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird."
Lamott covers the practical realities of a writing life -- messy first drafts, jealousy of other writers, writer's block, rejection, and the gap between the fantasy of being a published author and the actual daily work of sitting down to write badly before writing well. She writes with self-deprecating humor about her own struggles and treats the discipline of writing as inseparable from the discipline of paying attention to life.
Rather than a technical manual, the book functions as an encouragement to keep going, aimed at anyone -- not just aspiring novelists -- trying to do meaningful creative work despite fear and self-doubt.
Genres
Frequently asked questions
Why is Susan Bennett listed as an author?
Susan Bennett is a professional voice actress and narrator who recorded the audiobook version of this title, which is why she is frequently credited alongside Anne Lamott in digital library and retail listings.
Is this book a sequel to any of the author's other works?
This book is a standalone guide that functions independently of the author's other publications, though it shares the same autobiographical and candid voice found in her earlier memoir, Operating Instructions.
What is the origin of the title?
The title comes from a childhood memory the author recounts about her brother, who was overwhelmed by a school report on birds until their father advised him to take the task one bird at a time.