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 · 540 ratings  · 95 reviews

Kickoff your review of You lot're Not Fooling Anyone When You Take Your Laptop to a Java Shop: Scalzi on Writing

If there is i thing that John Scalzi does not effort to be, it is in appearing to be nice most the whole writing matter. His blog posts are ones that shoot directly from the hip with zero afterthought equally to the ricochet and it is almost completely no-nonsense. Scalzi offers his thoughts on writing, publishing and editing in a style that does non pamper his reading audience. While Stephen King was all refined in his book, Scalzi offers practical advice on what it means to be a writer. He discards an If there is one thing that John Scalzi does not endeavor to be, it is in actualization to exist overnice about the whole writing matter. His blog posts are ones that shoot straight from the hip with null afterthought as to the ricochet and it is almost completely no-nonsense. Scalzi offers his thoughts on writing, publishing and editing in a mode that does not pamper his reading audience. While Stephen King was all refined in his book, Scalzi offers practical advice on what it ways to be a writer. He discards whatever notion of treating writing as a bed of roses and talks about his life as a writer every bit an case. If you are looking for a nuts and bolts approach to writing so there is a lot to be found here in that department, but if one were to boil downwards all of Scalzi's communication then it would be these :

• Write, write and write equally much as you can and as if your life (literally) depended on it &

• Care for this as a serious occupation, merely similar any other profession

Scalzi has had a combination of hard work, luck and right circumstances that helped him slowly climb the rungs into his current position. He is fully cognizant of the fact that this might not exist the case for a lot of others. He makes it clear though that there needs to be a lot of work to exist done to become a competent (although not a good author…this category falls into a unlike bucket altogether) author. Disallowment a few of the authors who have the muse'due south manus on their shoulder, the others really have to sweat claret to come up with books that sell and ideas that resonate with the readers. When ane is competing with such professionals, it really wouldn't do you whatever adept to be a lazy and laid back bum. The manufactures are more of an exhortation to become off your posterior and go to work if you lot have even remote hopes of becoming a published author. The beginning 2 chapters of the book are blog posts that lay information technology thick on the writing life.

The 3rd and quaternary chapters does not feel as if they gel into the book. They are the ones that collect Scalzi's feedbacks and opinions on occurrences as early on as 2005 and 2006. Considering that a decade has passed already, these thoughts on the SF globe and its nuances does not really connect well with me. They were more like afterthoughts from the publisher's terminate to bring up the page count or something on those lines. For a book that speaks volumes on being relevant, this was totally the opposite.

The first ii capacity make the book worth your time. If you lot are planning to pursue writing as a career or a serious vocation, it would be good to hear Scalzi's take on it besides.

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February 07, 2008 Jason Hough rated it really liked information technology

Recommends information technology for: writers who hope to make it their job

Refreshingly honest articles (some may call arrogant, and John would probably agree), all pulled from his blog, on his career as a writer. Not many tips on the writing process, but plenty on the business of writing (he even tells you how much money he makes, and where the money comes from).

I did have an awkward moment - in one chapter, he quotes a bluster on the publishing business that was written by a good friend of mine, and then proceeds to destroy his arguments. I wasn't certain who to root for..

Refreshingly honest manufactures (some may call arrogant, and John would probably agree), all pulled from his blog, on his career as a writer. Not many tips on the writing process, but plenty on the business organization of writing (he even tells yous how much coin he makes, and where the money comes from).

I did have an awkward moment - in one chapter, he quotes a rant on the publishing business concern that was written past a good friend of mine, and and then proceeds to destroy his arguments. I wasn't sure who to root for...

This is nice to accept in book form, merely the truth of the thing is that at that place's zilch in this you cant find on his blog, so I docked a star from my rating.

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November 23, 2008 Kim rated it actually liked information technology

The four stars apply to the first 2 (of four) chapters of Scalzi's volume on writing. He has a articulate and refreshingly applied take on professional writing, and any aspiring writer (or anyone aspiring to make a living publishing anything, really) could learn something from what he has to say. The terminal two chapters aren't focused equally much on craft or business organization and are therefore non nearly equally useful. But they're classic Scalzi, and if y'all're interested in his opinion on writers and writing and sci- The four stars apply to the first 2 (of four) chapters of Scalzi's volume on writing. He has a clear and refreshingly practical take on professional writing, and any aspiring author (or anyone aspiring to make a living publishing anything, really) could learn something from what he has to say. The concluding two chapters aren't focused equally much on craft or business and are therefore not nigh as useful. But they're classic Scalzi, and if you lot're interested in his opinion on writers and writing and sci-fi, they're an okay read. But actually, read the first two capacity then just subscribe to his blog. ...more

Mar 01, 2011 Nick rated it really liked it

How you rate this volume, I think, depends primarily on what you expected when you lot sat downwardly to read information technology. Lets clear upwardly all confusion by starting off with what it -isn't-.

This book is not:
- A how-to guide on the nuts and bolts of writing.
- A how-to guide on getting published.
- A how-to guide on growing potatoes.
- A how-to guide.
- New.

This concluding I remember is specially important to empathize, Scalzi maintains a very pop blog that I myself have read daily for several years now where he covers topi

How you rate this volume, I think, depends primarily on what y'all expected when yous saturday down to read it. Lets clear up all confusion past starting off with what information technology -isn't-.

This book is non:
- A how-to guide on the nuts and bolts of writing.
- A how-to guide on getting published.
- A how-to guide on growing potatoes.
- A how-to guide.
- New.

This last I think is particularly important to sympathise, Scalzi maintains a very popular blog that I myself take read daily for several years at present where he covers topics ranging from his own work and the work of his friends to the politics of the twenty-four hours. It is well written, broad of topic and always entertaining. (He once taped salary to his cat you know.)

Scalzi on Writing is a collection of posts on writing, or tangentially about writing, taken from the athenaeum of this blog and bundled and edited to make a book format. This is not to backbite from the book itself, it is arranged to menstruum very well and the articles are elevation-notch, merely anyone who was expecting new material will exist sorely disappointed.

That said, much of the material included dates from before I was a Whatever reader and and so was new to me, and then I didn't observe this an effect. Some of the fabric has dated, some quite amusingly so, but on the whole this remains a useful volume for any writer's shelf.

So what exactly is information technology about? Information technology is divided into sections, each somewhat thematically linked, just what information technology is on the whole is a series of essays focused on the life of a working writer. He covers a diversity of topics from how he supports himself and his family (information technology isn't with his novels), how much a author can expect to make (not enough for that yacht you've got your center on), how the publication industry works (blood sacrifice and virgin writer tears) to, my personal favourites, writers/publishers behaving badly. (Plagiarism, Dishonest vanity publishers, scams.. and then much fun.)

Information technology'due south not a large book, simply in that location is a lot covered in the accessible, lite-hearted mode that Scalzi's blog-writing is justifiably famous for.

The only affair that was missing was a picture of his cat.

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December 02, 2012 Ron rated it liked it

Beautiful, informative. Irreverent, only not irrelevant. Not heavy reading either.

Crowded a pile of old weblog entries between two covers and called it a volume. He told us what he was doing, we shouldn't mutter.

Beautiful, informative. Irreverent, but not irrelevant. Not heavy reading either.

Crowded a pile of old web log entries between 2 covers and called information technology a volume. He told us what he was doing, we shouldn't complain.

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2.5 stars, since largely outdated.

Jul 12, 2017 Donna rated information technology really liked it

A collection of Scalzi's weblog postings from 2001 to 2006, focusing on writing, what it'south like to make a living through writing, and comments about authors (particularly science fiction authors)

I became a big fan of Scalzi's blog well-nigh two years ago. I dearest his bluntness and his little-to-no-bullshit tone. I sometimes want to call bullshit on people and things at work and I can't do this then I relish seeing someone'southward ability (and willingness) to practice this. I've oftentimes wondered why he doesn't write mor

A collection of Scalzi's blog postings from 2001 to 2006, focusing on writing, what it's like to make a living through writing, and comments about authors (specially scientific discipline fiction authors)

I became a big fan of Scalzi'due south blog nearly ii years ago. I love his bluntness and his picayune-to-no-bullshit tone. I sometimes want to call bullshit on people and things at work and I can't practice this and so I enjoy seeing someone'south ability (and willingness) to do this. I've ofttimes wondered why he doesn't write more about writing on his web log and now I know: he'southward already done it, and here it is.

In one essay, Scalzi mentions that, while he makes a good living with his writing, he can't support himself on his book writing solitary (he did a lot of commercial nonfiction to pay the bills) and that 1 solar day hopefully he'll get there. This made me grinning, because at this point he's at that place. John Scalzi feels similar a friend I've never met, and (every bit he oft says) it's nice to see your friends succeed.

And then he segues into how, if y'all don't know what you're talking about, you lot're basically just 'farting from your larynx'. And there'due south Scalzi. What'south not to like?

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If you are an aspiring writer, Scalzi tells it like it is and gives you a good feeling for what information technology might exist similar to be a modern writer. No writing tips here - that'due south for other types of books. This one is about being a writer and making a living.

If you're not aspiring writer (like me), but you like to nerd out on the industry, then you'll likely detect it fun.

If you like Whatever, Scalzi'south weblog, these are simply entries from his blog that take had some editing to form into a cohesive book. I like

If yous are an aspiring writer, Scalzi tells it like information technology is and gives you lot a good feeling for what it might be like to be a modern writer. No writing tips here - that's for other types of books. This 1 is about being a writer and making a living.

If y'all're non aspiring author (similar me), but you like to nerd out on the industry, then yous'll likely find information technology fun.

If you like Whatever, Scalzi's web log, these are simply entries from his web log that have had some editing to form into a cohesive book. I like his style, then I enjoyed the book. He seems to accept a vocal group of haters, if you're in that group you'll probably hate this book.

Finally, this book contains entries that are >10 years old at this point - 2004-2006. So information technology's really funny beingness in the future and knowing about his current multi-million dollar contract with Tor books while reading entries in which he hopes he can sell more than just Old Human being's War and The Ghost Brigades.

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I bought this book considering I like Scalzi'due south blog and I wanted plenty to read on my Kindle when I went on vacation.

I think this book would be helpful to aspiring writers. The advice is solid and backed up with lots of "real life". That's not why I bought the book. I bought it because I thought information technology would be interesting, entertaining and I figured I owed Scalzi afterwards reading his blog for several years. Information technology was interesting and entertaining. Yeah, you can dig through his web log archive and find the same ar

I bought this volume because I similar Scalzi's blog and I wanted enough to read on my Kindle when I went on vacation.

I think this book would be helpful to aspiring writers. The communication is solid and backed up with lots of "real life". That's not why I bought the volume. I bought it because I thought it would be interesting, entertaining and I figured I owed Scalzi after reading his web log for several years. It was interesting and entertaining. Yeah, you lot can dig through his blog annal and find the aforementioned articles. shrug.

It is a real insider'southward look at the publishing world - definitely from a writer'due south bespeak of view. So even if y'all don't want to write, it is still a really proficient read.

I exercise take a quibble - although fifty-fifty as I write this, I know it is unfair - the book is dated. Lots of things have changed since 2005 . . . haven't they? The book is oddly like looking at a moment in fourth dimension, in the past. On the other paw, that is the nature of books - they are moments in time. Only classics are forever. This volume is not a archetype, but it is a good read.

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Jun 28, 2012 Tommy Carlson rated information technology it was amazing

This is a drove of his non-fiction works about writing. He is, later all, a successful writer.

Information technology's a great read. If you lot're thinking of becoming a professional writer, meaning that writing is your main source of income, then this is a must read.

There'south loads of good advice, some y'all might not want to hear. Scalzi doesn't pull whatsoever punches. (Which is ane reason I really enjoy his non-fiction commentaries.)

I was also surprised to come across how tough it is to make a living at writing. Scalzi doesn't

This is a collection of his non-fiction works about writing. He is, after all, a successful writer.

It'south a great read. If you lot're thinking of becoming a professional writer, significant that writing is your main source of income, then this is a must read.

In that location's loads of good communication, some you might not desire to hear. Scalzi doesn't pull any punches. (Which is i reason I actually enjoy his non-fiction commentaries.)

I was also surprised to see how tough it is to brand a living at writing. Scalzi doesn't live off his novel sales. He lives off contractual business writing. And he doesn't get rich off it, either. I was a piddling disappointed to find out that, until recently, he didn't brand much more I practise. And I'm certain he works a lot harder at information technology. Of course, equally his star has risen, so has his income. He probably makes twice, peradventure thrice, what I do now.

Most genre fiction writers, peculiarly in sci-fi, have day jobs that pay the bills. It's not easy to make a living writing books. Simply if you think that's what yous desire to do, then be sure to read this first.

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Sep 06, 2012 Eric Duprey rated it really liked information technology

I've recently read several of John Scalzi'south novels (Old Man'due south War, The Ghost Brigades, The Android's Dream, Redshirts) and find his writing to be accessible and engaging. From Amazon, I learned that he had written a volume well-nigh writing; as an aspiring author myself this seemed like the perfect thing to help develop my own skills. It should be noted first that this is a topical collection of posts from John's web log "Whatever". I don't consider this a bad affair, but I know that for some reason, some I've recently read several of John Scalzi's novels (Old Human being's War, The Ghost Brigades, The Android's Dream, Redshirts) and notice his writing to exist accessible and engaging. From Amazon, I learned that he had written a book about writing; as an aspiring writer myself this seemed like the perfect thing to help develop my own skills. It should be noted first that this is a topical drove of posts from John's blog "Any". I don't consider this a bad thing, but I know that for some reason, some of you may object to buying a volume / ebook nerveless from a blog for which the content is freely bachelor.

This is by and large a book most the concern of writing and the things that come in the life and career of a professional writer, rather than a book on the art of writing. You won't find much on plot, setting or characters here. For me personally, I still found information technology to be very insightful and useful as I contemplate beginning such a career myself, and it was entertaining and funny besides.

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Dec 09, 2012 Virginia rated information technology liked it  · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Adam Heine

Although I call back the e-book version had some typos and could've benefited from amend editing, I do bask Scalzi's writing mode. These were culled from his Any blog and has much to practise with the business of writing (both publishing, fiction, not-fiction, concern, etc). Very informative and useful. Plus, Scalzi breaks downward real numbers (including his).

I learned quite a chip and was inspired (albeit, in a very practical sort of way).

Although I think the due east-book version had some typos and could've benefited from meliorate editing, I do enjoy Scalzi'due south writing style. These were culled from his Whatever blog and has much to exercise with the business organisation of writing (both publishing, fiction, non-fiction, business organisation, etc). Very informative and useful. Plus, Scalzi breaks down real numbers (including his).

I learned quite a bit and was inspired (albeit, in a very practical sort of manner).

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Jun 10, 2011 Eric rated it really liked it

John Scalzi has been a announcer, a paid blogger, an unpaid blogger, an author, and an editor; and he has written corporate pieces and newspaper and mag columns, every bit well as fiction and non-fiction. I think that qualifies him to talk about writing, the writing life, and writers. You're Non Fooling Anyone When Y'all Take Your Laptop to a Java Shop: Scalzi on Writing is a collection of posts from Scalzi'due south blog, the Whatever, written in 2001-2006. Correct off the bat, readers should consider two John Scalzi has been a journalist, a paid blogger, an unpaid blogger, an writer, and an editor; and he has written corporate pieces and newspaper and mag columns, as well every bit fiction and non-fiction. I think that qualifies him to talk about writing, the writing life, and writers. You're Not Fooling Anyone When You lot Take Your Laptop to a Coffee Shop: Scalzi on Writing is a drove of posts from Scalzi's weblog, the Whatever, written in 2001-2006. Right off the bat, readers should consider two things about this volume. First, it was written before the contempo economic downturn (whose furnishings on freelance writing are still being adamant). Second, Scalzi's professional person history cannot be replicated today (even he admits he was lucky). Still Scalzi's book is still useful to the beginning writer looking to get practical advice written in an entertaining style.

Chapter 1 is grouped around the theme of writing advice. Scalzi's goal is non to teach you how to write, just how to make writing your business concern. Scalzi admittedly loves writing (and would probable do it for free, but getting paid is better). He knows it is his job, and he treats it seriously. He doesn't have much time for those writers who would prefer to live some artistically pure, maverick lifestyle (as evidenced past the title of this book). He suggests that you lot recollect seriously about the audience of your piece. Write well, and write for that audience. He suggest yous listen well, work hard, and produce quality apace. Give the customer what they ask for the starting time time. If someone wants to brand changes to your work, make the changes and don't bemoan the harm to your artistic image. Scalzi has no time for jerks or whiners. He wants to put food on the table and pay his mortgage. This communication will rub some readers the wrong way, undoubtedly, but beginner writers similar myself need this communication.

Scalzi also talks about rejection. Wait it. Scalzi provides the metrics he used when he was an editor, and he points readers to the metrics used by other editors. Bottom line–it's actually not personal. It'south nearly whether your fabric is submitted correctly, is of sufficient quality, and it fits their needs and timing. When you become rejected move on, and expect for some other place to publish. Scalzi besides talks near how to develop an online audience and how information technology can assist your chances of getting published. Time spent whining about your misfortune or envying those more successful than you lot is fourth dimension wasted in Scalzi'due south listen, especially when no 1 will take you very seriously until you are published. Yeah, rejection hurts, but these essays will give yous the support you need to continue submitting.

Lastly, Scalzi talks about when a beginner writer should give up his day job for writing (here'south a hint: not for a while, and probably not always). A freelancer loses out on benefits and retirement packages most mean solar day jobs offering, so you need to exist making more than you currently exercise before you spring ship. This will often require y'all to exist working in multiple sectors, working on multiple projects. Of course, this will have time to develop. And expect those sectors and products to shift over time. Stay flexible and don't put all your eggs in ane basket. In fact, staying driven and flexible are fundamental themes Scalzi returns to. You need to plan for change and exist proactive in your response to it. I would have liked more than discussion on marketing yourself and finding work inside those other sectors (peculiarly the corporate sector), just this is a pocket-size quibble with the volume.

Affiliate Two'south essays are grouped around the theme of the writer's life. Scalzi is pretty open about his annual income: what information technology is, how it is derived, and how it has changed over time. He argues that your success as a writer will depend on your competence, opportunities bachelor to yous, and your willingness to explore new avenues. Basically, it's all virtually the hustle.

Scalzi also talks almost how he ranks book advances, and how his opinion, equally a writer, will necessarily be dissimilar from that of a publisher paying out the advance. Scalzi besides runs through the math of advances and royalties, and how this math volition affect your futurity publication deals. Lesser line: fiction oft doesn't pay authors well, so consider the advance all y'all will receive. And find other ways to supplement that income.

Affiliate ii as well includes a lot of essays detailing Scalzi's personal preferences for typing over handwriting, his opinion on creative commons licensing, and online piracy of books. Although interesting, these essays are less useful for the budding author.

The most useful tips in Affiliate Three are those designed to aid new writers avoid bones mistakes, such equally don't be a jerk to others (it's a pocket-size business organization); don't trash others publicly; don't lie in submission letters; and while an homage might be okay in fiction (and then long every bit you are open almost information technology in your acknowledgments), plagiarism is never okay. You lot would call back these would be common sense. If they are non, I'm starting to experience better most my chances as a writer.

Chapter Four is virtually the globe of science fiction. The best takeaway from this chapter is that writers should resist the idea that science fiction is or should be a monoculture. In that location is room for anybody's personal tastes. It should not be a modest social club for insiders only. Writers should feel free to write for a full general reader who is not familiar with the latest ideas in science fiction. Although this is largely a response to criticisms of Scalzi's book Old Man's State of war, it'southward proficient advice for the budding SF writer.

Although the capacity become progressively less useful for someone interested in launching their freelance writing career, I would notwithstanding recommend readers wait at Coffee Store. Scalzi'south communication might seem harsh, and not as creative equally i might like, but you cannot deny Scalzi'southward success as a writer. A firm grounding in the practical side of the business of writing is sure to exist useful. Read Coffee Shop; learn from it.

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January eighteen, 2022 Nathan Waddell rated it did not similar it

One star is a harsh review, just let me say I think John Scalzi is neat. 2020's version, anyways. And I exercise beloved all his novels that I've read, which is well-nigh of them so far. Some I've even read twice, so. This isn't an assassination review! But this book is horribly dated and hopefully Scalzi himself would look at it and maybe cringe a little. In fact this is the 2nd time I've read this volume. I don't really recall how I felt about information technology back in 2007 or whenever. I do think it is how I was i One star is a harsh review, just permit me say I think John Scalzi is swell. 2020'southward version, anyways. And I do love all his novels that I've read, which is nearly of them and so far. Some I've fifty-fifty read twice, so. This isn't an assassination review! But this book is horribly dated and hopefully Scalzi himself would look at it and possibly cringe a little. In fact this is the second time I've read this book. I don't really recall how I felt virtually information technology back in 2007 or whenever. I do remember information technology is how I was introduced to China Miéville though, so points for that.
Rereading it now, though, and it just comes beyond equally so smug and condescending. Ugh. And very dated as it is a lot of bog entries from early 2000s. And, fair! That'due south what it is. I just have been going though a bunch of the books on writing to glean what I tin can from them, having inverse a lot in the decades since I first read them. Scalzi has changed too, and hopefully all of united states of america for the improve.
Anyways, budding writers, you tin give this ane a pass. Maybe try the one I am excited to read adjacent- Charlie Jane Anders' Never Say Yous Can't Survive. ...more than

Aug 17, 2017 Rachel Ayers rated information technology actually liked information technology

Really interesting to read this ten years after publication; a lot of the speculation about the publishing industry is spot on. Also fascinating to see how cocky-publishing has evolved since this was written. At that place's still a lot of good writing advice, besides, that hasn't aged out. Snarkiness never dies. Actually interesting to read this ten years afterward publication; a lot of the speculation about the publishing manufacture is spot on. Also fascinating to run into how self-publishing has evolved since this was written. In that location's however a lot of practiced writing communication, as well, that hasn't aged out. Snarkiness never dies. ...more

Lots of authors write books on writing. Louis Fifty'Amour did, and his volume is on my all-fourth dimension Superlative Ten. Stephen King also wrote a winner. Both of those were basically autobiographical and explained how they grew as individuals, and subsequently how that shaped their writing. King's volume had more of a technical side, whereas L'Amour talked about accuracy, detail and propriety of content.

Scalzi takes a completely dissimilar approach, talking mostly virtually the concern side of writing, and the attitude a writer

Lots of authors write books on writing. Louis 50'Amour did, and his volume is on my all-time Top Ten. Stephen King too wrote a winner. Both of those were basically autobiographical and explained how they grew as individuals, and later how that shaped their writing. King'south book had more of a technical side, whereas L'Amour talked about accurateness, particular and propriety of content.

Scalzi takes a completely dissimilar arroyo, talking generally about the business side of writing, and the attitude a writer ought to take toward his/her task. "Ought to" meaning "what has worked for Scalzi", which isn't necessarily a bad affair. He pulls downward a six-figure income working freelance, not including the advances he gets from his novels. Every topic from relating to other authors, to dealing with plagiarism, to online flame wars, to getting an amanuensis...it'southward all the concern side.

If you haven't been exposed to Scalzi'south piece of work earlier, this is a good place to kickoff. There's some language throughout but he doesn't proceed it prevalent--most of the entries in this book are posts from his blog, which has been effectually for over a decade. I didn't find myself disagreeing with much of annihilation in this book either--information technology transcends writing communication, and you can see his general personal philosophy and outlook on life, and information technology's really great. He seems like a very independent, likable, headstrong guy who merely deliberately offends people back. I don't know, maybe I haven't read enough of his work on his blog, but that's the impression I get from his book.

And so yeah, tons of skilful communication in here, definitely worth your time. Sure capacity had me laughing out loud and thinking I'd even recommend this book to people who aren't writers. It's that good.

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The championship tweaked me a bit, since I often go work done in coffee shops. The championship didn't suggest why he thought it was a foolish practice. I assumed it was a behavior he saw every bit big-headed, or an affectation. What apparently bothers him about people using their laptops in java shops is the assumption that they're trying to get laid.

Really? Because no i has ever and so much as started a chat with me in a coffee shop while I was writing, and I've seen plenty of other people perfectly content

The title tweaked me a scrap, since I often go work washed in coffee shops. The championship didn't suggest why he thought it was a foolish practice. I assumed it was a behavior he saw equally arrogant, or an affectation. What obviously bothers him nearly people using their laptops in coffee shops is the assumption that they're trying to get laid.

Actually? Because no one has ever so much as started a conversation with me in a coffee shop while I was writing, and I've seen enough of other people perfectly content to work without interruptions. Ah well.

The first two thirds of Scalzi's book are an interesting look into the life of a working writer. Well-nigh books on the subject area don't really give a sense of what the lifestyle is actually like, but the usual show don't tell advice and editing suggestions. While Scalzi's writing probably won't aid me write, it's eye-opening at the very least.

I would have rated information technology better, merely I felt like he didn't try very hard to shepherd this information from his weblog posts into an actual novel. Nothing seems fleshed out or revised to fit the medium or justify the toll, and the last tertiary mostly seems composed of tangentially related, very dated blog entries based on statements by other writers who rubbed him the incorrect way.

You lot should probably just look up the chapter titles on his web log: http://whatever.scalzi.com

Save your Scalzi money for the novels he manifestly works so hard on.

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Mar 09, 2014 Hila rated it information technology was ok

Picked up this book thinking it's a happy, fun writing book past that nice, feminist, atheist guy from the Whatever, who wrote Old Man'due south War and The Android's Dream, which I enjoyed. Shame that I did, considering about a quarter of the way in I'd come up to the conclusion in that location was no shaking for the rest of it - this is an egomaniacal jerk who has no way to value anything except monetarily, with a deep disdain for fine art and the humanities (because they're not assisting, duh) and cipher genuinely interes Picked upwardly this book thinking it's a happy, fun writing volume by that overnice, feminist, atheist guy from the Any, who wrote Old Man's State of war and The Android's Dream, which I enjoyed. Shame that I did, because about a quarter of the way in I'd come to the determination there was no shaking for the balance of it - this is an egomaniacal jerk who has no manner to value annihilation except monetarily, with a deep disdain for art and the humanities (because they're non assisting, duh) and nothing genuinely interesting to say. Finished it considering I kept hoping something, anything there would alter my listen, only nothing.

And, as a bonus, on the style to mocking the things in the publishing industry that practice deserve mock (vanity presses, people with no self consciousness and a high opinion of themselves, people who recommend that y'all prevarication to editors well-nigh things easily checked) he manages to dump on: peer review, writing workshops, stories with depth and/or a message, anyone who doesn't have a book contract, anyone who didn't sell their book off their blog.

A couple of funny anecdotes hither and in that location, but no writing advice of note and nothing uniquely interesting to say about the publishing manufacture. And it's all off his blog, then (if we're to borrow his terminology) information technology's not even worth the coin.

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Mar 16, 2013 Destina rated information technology did not like it

I've read many, many books about writing - books that cover craft, and the practicalities of the writing life, as well as delving into the author's psyche, and the pitfalls of both vocation and avocation. Some of those books practise it with panache; some of them take useful advice. I think Scalzi's book might be useful for someone who knows absolutely nothing about the publishing business, but my god, it was deadly slow. I think he achieved his goal of baldheaded practicality, but he did it at the cost of I've read many, many books about writing - books that cover arts and crafts, and the practicalities of the writing life, every bit well as delving into the writer'southward psyche, and the pitfalls of both vocation and avocation. Some of those books do it with panache; some of them have useful communication. I think Scalzi's book might be useful for someone who knows absolutely nothing about the publishing business organisation, but my god, it was deadly irksome. I think he achieved his goal of bald practicality, but he did it at the cost of anything remotely budgeted amusement. The book is every bit snarky and straightforward equally his blog, which is both adept and bad. I savour snark, and I adopt directness but this book is just...lacking in manner or depth for anyone who knows the basics already. I'grand seriously disappointed, and truly grateful I bought the Kindle edition, and didn't fork out for a difficult copy. ...more

December 09, 2012 Rebecca rated it liked information technology

I've been reading Any for the last two years or so, then I've read a lot of Scalzi without having read these particular essays. Honestly, if yous've read much of the blog, yous tin probably skip this one. It's perfectly well done, but I feel like between other Scalzi essays and other essays on writing, I've read almost of this textile before. As well, at this point, there's a fair amount of advice that's dated. Changes in the publishing manufacture are speedily rendering a lot of proficient advice somewhat thousand I've been reading Whatever for the last ii years or so, so I've read a lot of Scalzi without having read these particular essays. Honestly, if you've read much of the blog, you can probably skip this one. It'due south perfectly well washed, just I feel like betwixt other Scalzi essays and other essays on writing, I've read most of this material earlier. Besides, at this bespeak, there's a fair amount of advice that's dated. Changes in the publishing manufacture are rapidly rendering a lot of good advice somewhat moot.

It'due south funny, it's a good window into Scalzi'due south incredibly sensible and ruthlessly practical approach to writing (both every bit a craft and as a living). Merely it's either for the total Scalzi rookie or for the completionist.

...more

I found this volume to be an entertaining and practical reality check for any writer inbound the business. The book is non almost how to write but rather how to support yourself through your writing, which is quite a unlike fix of skills. Scalzi talks about what he has washed to put together a successful writing career, gives tips, and wisely counsels that anybody's career will necessarily follow a somewhat different path. His smart, sassy tone make the book fun reading. The final capacity-- conc I found this book to be an entertaining and practical reality check for any writer entering the business concern. The volume is not well-nigh how to write but rather how to back up yourself through your writing, which is quite a unlike set of skills. Scalzi talks almost what he has done to put together a successful writing career, gives tips, and wisely counsels that everyone'due south career will necessarily follow a somewhat dissimilar path. His smart, sassy tone make the volume fun reading. The last chapters-- concerning sci-fi authors and issues---were of somewhat less interest to me. But all in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read. ...more

Feb eighteen, 2010 Michael rated it really liked it

Scalzi turns his scathingly funny heart on the business of writing. This is not your typical how-to book for budding authors. This is about the business of writing. He discusses the non so fun and artistic portion of being a writer -- the contracts, getting them and keeping them, coin issues, promotion. Scalzi looks at all of the less than glamorous, slightly boring aspects and provides insight which is not merely useful just damned amusing. Everyone volition find this amusing, authors will find it espe Scalzi turns his scathingly funny centre on the business organization of writing. This is not your typical how-to book for budding authors. This is nearly the concern of writing. He discusses the non so fun and artistic portion of being a writer -- the contracts, getting them and keeping them, coin bug, promotion. Scalzi looks at all of the less than glamorous, slightly tiresome aspects and provides insight which is not merely useful just damned agreeable. Everyone volition find this amusing, authors will notice it especially useful. ...more than

Nov 07, 2012 Jon rated it liked it

This book reminded me how much I love the library. The patron alee of me returned a re-create. "Scalzi on Writing." I like Scalzi. I similar Stephen King'south On Writing. Sounds like a good time. This isn't something I would accept bumped into on my own.

As a non-writer, the financial attribute of the book was irrelevant to me. But Scalzi made it entertaining, so I enjoyed it anyhow.

It was repetitive, but it was a drove of essays that weren't intended equally a standalone book, and then that didn't carp me likewise much

This book reminded me how much I love the library. The patron alee of me returned a re-create. "Scalzi on Writing." I similar Scalzi. I like Stephen King's On Writing. Sounds like a good time. This isn't something I would have bumped into on my ain.

As a non-writer, the fiscal attribute of the book was irrelevant to me. But Scalzi fabricated information technology entertaining, so I enjoyed it anyway.

It was repetitive, but it was a collection of essays that weren't intended as a standalone book, and so that didn't carp me too much.

...more

I haven't finished this however. I'yard enjoying information technology; generally it'due south a goad to remind me how much more I should be writing, only that sort of goad is useful.

Anyhow, the only existent reason I'thou writing anything here at all is to annotation that I do not endorse the title. I take gotten some badass writing washed in coffee shops. Whether the words were worth the cost of coffee... well, that'south not really up to me, is it?

I oasis't finished this however. I'm enjoying it; generally it's a goad to remind me how much more I should be writing, but that sort of goad is useful.

Anyway, the only existent reason I'm writing anything here at all is to annotation that I practice not endorse the title. I have gotten some badass writing washed in coffee shops. Whether the words were worth the cost of coffee... well, that'due south not really up to me, is it?

...more

Mar 15, 2013 Annabeth Leong rated it actually liked it

Acerbic, refreshing, and practical. As always, I enjoy the humorous tone Scalzi uses while laying out edgeless, hard-hitting opinions. Since much of the book was written after One-time Homo's State of war came out but before it was clear it would be a success, this volume captures a really interesting moment in a writer's career. By the end, I'd come to experience it had gotten a bit repetitive (the blog entries from which the book is adapted often embrace overlapping topics). Nevertheless, the book was well worth the time. Acerbic, refreshing, and practical. Equally e'er, I bask the humorous tone Scalzi uses while laying out blunt, hard-hit opinions. Since much of the volume was written subsequently Old Human's War came out but before information technology was clear it would be a success, this volume captures a really interesting moment in a author's career. By the end, I'd come to feel it had gotten a bit repetitive (the blog entries from which the volume is adapted often cover overlapping topics). However, the book was well worth the time. ...more

Mar 05, 2009 Marty Kay rated it it was astonishing

Fantastic stuff, and strangley familiar... I wonder why :D
Reprints from Mr Scalzi's blog, with additions, but even so fun and enjoyable.

Male monarch'southward On Writing spoke a lot virtually the doing and existence of a writer, Scalzi's book talks a lot on the business side and the life of ane. I thought it was a great read total of useful information and Scalzi's brand of snark.

Fantastic stuff, and strangley familiar... I wonder why :D
Reprints from Mr Scalzi's blog, with additions, but still fun and enjoyable.

King'due south On Writing spoke a lot almost the doing and being of a writer, Scalzi'southward volume talks a lot on the business organization side and the life of one. I thought information technology was a great read full of useful data and Scalzi's brand of snark.

...more

Jun 15, 2011 Kristen rated it actually liked it

A writing book, but a writing book about the publishing industry, rather than another how-to book. Anyone familiar with John Scalzi's web log will recognize the tone (and even some of the chapters) from that net haven, Whatever.
A writing book, but a writing book nigh the publishing industry, rather than another how-to volume. Anyone familiar with John Scalzi'due south blog will recognize the tone (and even some of the chapters) from that internet oasis, Whatever. ...more

Scalzi offers up an interesting personal insight on the business organization of writing. Not on writing, merely more so the money side and getting published side of information technology. Information technology's full of anecdotes and I recollect many of the capacity bachelor in this short, picayune book are still up on his blog. Y'all might accept to do some digging, but they're probably still at that place. Scalzi offers up an interesting personal insight on the concern of writing. Not on writing, but more so the money side and getting published side of it. It'southward total of anecdotes and I call back many of the chapters available in this brusk, little book are still up on his web log. Yous might have to do some digging, but they're probably still there. ...more

May 28, 2013 David Pullman rated information technology really liked it

This is a selective gathering of postings from the authors website. Each is curt and interesting, and the way they've been put together makes a statement about a writing topic. He has a definite point of view on the occupation and the field of writing (and some opinions most writer, readers, and publishers). Very fun to option up and read a few entries at a time. This is a selective gathering of postings from the authors website. Each is curt and interesting, and the way they've been put together makes a statement about a writing topic. He has a definite bespeak of view on the occupation and the field of writing (and some opinions almost writer, readers, and publishers). Very fun to pick up and read a few entries at a fourth dimension. ...more

Mar 06, 2009 Steven rated it really liked it

Got this in its first edition, as Subterranean Press is i of my favorite quality publishers and Scalzi's weblog had fatigued me in every bit a reader months before. Well worth the read, both for fledgling writers to get some advice and for others just for a good read. Got this in its first edition, as Subterranean Press is ane of my favorite quality publishers and Scalzi's blog had drawn me in as a reader months earlier. Well worth the read, both for fledgling writers to go some advice and for others just for a good read. ...more

John Scalzi, having alleged his absolute boredom with biographies, disappeared in a puff of glitter and lilac odor.

(If you lot want to contact John, using the mail function hither is a really bad way to do it. Go to his site and employ the contact information you observe there.)

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