A Life in Hand: Creating the Illuminated Journal

I've read and am reading several books on journal writing, having decided to take on that task in earnest. Often these books are heavily into a kind of exploratory self-analysis of the psychological sort as an aid to figuring out one's personal issues. They can also be lengthy and involved. But Hannah Hinchman's book is readable, delightfully brief and nicely illustrated with her art work. It covers the field sufficiently but not exhaustively, and provides enough examples from accomplished journalists to give the newcomer models he or she needs to get going in the right direction. And there is constant helpful and practical advice. I find myself going back to it over and over again to remind myself of the fine points of her wise guidance. If you're new or fairly new to the journal-writing endeavor, I highly recommend this book.

Sky a relaxed blue. Snow shadows have more violet than sky does. At the unfocussed edge of the shadow, an orange penumbra. ~February 1989 A Life in Hand is a book set designed to encourage your creativity. Both books have beautiful covers and the second book is filled with blank pages. Hannah Hinchman lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where she works as a freelance artist, illustrator, graphic designer, calligrapher, writer and teacher. Her work has appeared in Sisters of the Earth and in Sierra magazine. She now teaches field journal workshops for the Yellowstone Institute. All the drawings in the instruction booklet were taken from Hannah's journals. The last section of this book is filled with Watercolor art and Hannah's calligraphy. Hannah encourages everyone to begin a journal, no matter what your age or life experience. She explores the magic of journal keeping and brings a new perspective to letter writing. She enjoys word play and stream-of-consciousness writing. If you want to start a journal, this book set may inspire you and give you ideas for illustrating your observations about life. ~The Rebecca Review

This book is simple introduction to visual diary-keeping and will be enjoyed by people looking for a short, unintimidating, introduction to this topic.

When I bought the first edition of this book several years ago, I went back and bought 6 more copies which I gave to my closest friends. Each felt as I did, that this was a profound book that stimulated creative journal keeping for inner and outer experiences to sharpen every day. I'd long looked for someone who could guide my urges to write and to draw, to stimulate me to put my observations out where I could really grasp them. Hinchman showed me the way with writing and memory exercises which I actually did and enjoyed, basic art technique, encouragement, and the idea that my scribbles and jottings could become a treasured personal record.

This book has created a nationwide interest in illustrated journal-keeping. It's a friendly, exquisitely illustrated volume from someone who is obviously nature-connected and literate to boot. If you like maps, natural history illustration, or if you are one of those who have always wanted to draw, but don't believe you can....this is the book for you