Publishers Weekly
This playful guide for aspiring writers aims to demystify the creative process as it explores first drafts and finding inspiration, the meat and potatoes of writing, and writer's block and criticism. Mazer (the Sister Magic series) and Potter (the Olivia Kidney books) challenge readers to dig deep into their characters, make a “mental compost pile” to find inspiration, and face revision head on, while modeling their own approaches. “I get ideas while waiting in lines, staring at the clouds, or lying sick in bed,” says Mazer; demonstrating how to build suspense, Potter shares the true story (“with a few embellishments”) of a robber hanging from her neighbor's terrace. Phelan's ink illustrations and a lighthearted humor enliven the text, and honest advice, such as “Your character's heart's desire is what propels your story forward,” are cogent and invaluable. Ages 9–14. (Mar.)
Kirkus Reviews
Two prolific writers for children offer advice on the writing process for young writers. In an engaging, informal style, Mazer and Potter cover the range of writing concerns, from getting started, creating characters, writing dialogue, finding a narrative voice and revising. Clearly the authors had fun compiling their tips, and original metaphors and images for the writing process keep things light: "Mental compost" is the fertile soil of the imagination, the "overflowing toilet" comes from having too many ideas and 300-pound drafts are what students lug around when enthusiastic teachers burden them with too many required steps in the writing process. This volume runs that risk, too, with so much well-intentioned advice that it could become daunting, but Phelan's illustrations, "I Dare You" sidebars that encourage students to try out ideas and the authors' own models of their writing help keep the format light and engaging. Young people who have already written a fair amount will best be able to see the value of the advice and will feel as if they have been allowed into a friendly conversation with masters of their craft. The best of recent volumes on the subject. (introduction, appendix) (Nonfiction. 9-14)
From the Publisher
Cogent and invaluable.” —Publishers Weekly
“The best of recent volumes on the subject.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Two fine writers put their heads together and come up with an equally fine guide to their craft for beginners.” —Booklist
“For years I have been thinking about writing a HOW TO book for kids who want to write. Now I don't have to. Anne and Ellen have crafted such a wonderful, funny, wise book about how to craft a wonderful, funny, wise book that when eager young writers send me a letter seeking my advice I can now simply say, ‘Read this!' My hat is off to this dynamic duo.” —Bruce Coville, author of Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher
“The singular, intense yet funny voice of SPILLING INK shares advice—how to convince your characters they are alive, avoid noisy dialog tags, wear sunglasses to feel like a spy—with much lively wisdom, and nary a hint of adult condescension. An outstanding book.” —Nancy Springer, author of The Enola Holmes Mystery series
School Library Journal
Gr 5–9—In this how-to book (Flash Point, 2010), Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter offer tips about the writing process, from character development to plotting the story to setting and narrative voice. Each writer gives her own take on all of the elements of writing, often using humorous examples and personal situations. In addition, they provide encouragement to young authors by describing not only how things can go well, but also how they can go dreadfully wrong and still result in something good. One of the best parts of the print version—the "I Dare You's" that offer writing prompts—does not have the same kind of impact in the audio format. A young writer would need to keep a quick finger on the pause and rewind buttons and would have to be paying close attention to take the prompt and write before moving on to the next topic. Also, a number of times Potter or Mazer suggest that listeners go to a different disc and track for information about a related topic. Still, the authors are so friendly and open that they draw listeners into their work and world. The audiobook is narrated by the authors and a supporting cast who provide emotion and strong characterization. Have the print version available to use in conjunction with the audiobook.—Ann Brownson, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston
JANUARY 2012 - AudioFile
Authors Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter give kids insight into the writing process. The conversational tone of their essays on topics like generating ideas, plotting, and revision is reinforced by their own reading of their work. Listeners will get a sense of each personality from Mazer’s subdued reading and Potter’s vivacious one. The contrast adds interest to the production as a whole and makes the authors seem that much more real, giving their advice weight. Mazer and Potter freely share insecurities and doubts, as well as advice on how to overcome them, along with practical tips and writing exercises. This is a useful and entertaining guide for writers of any age. A.F. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine
