The Essayist at Work: Profiles of Creative Nonfiction Writers

Compiled by the founder and editor of the journal, Creative Nonfiction, this book is a must-read for any writer interested in the practical and theoretical aspects of writing creative nonfiction. The anthology offers a diversity of contemporary literary voices ranging from John McPhee to Terry Tempest Williams. Although the writers profiled have sometimes conflicting opinions about the role of the essay in society or the way in which it should be written or approached, they are all passionate about and intimate with the form. Each writer discusses their process of creating an essay, offering personal and candid experiences that provide a great deal of guidance and support. Through reading this book, my understanding of the form expanded and deepened, as did my patience with my own writing practice.