Write Where You Live: Successful Freelancing at Home: Without Driving Yourself and Your Family Crazy

Another "how to write" book I just finished was Write Where You Live - Successful Freelancing At Home Without Driving Yourself And Your Family Crazy by Elaine Fantle Shimberg. It's a useful and humorous book on how to be a freelance writer while also trying to preserve your sanity at home (assuming that's where you do your writing). Shimberg has been a freelance writer for over 40 years, and did much of that while trying to raise five kids. You have to give her major kudos for pulling that one off. She covers reasons for writing, how to structure your time, how to figure out what to write about, and much more. There are a number of funny stories and witty observations sprinkled throughout, and you can tell she likes what she does. There is also a fair amount of coverage on basic life issues, like organizational skills and believing in yourself. If you're looking to do freelance writing, this would be a good choice for a read on how to get started. The only criticism of the book I can make is that it was written in 1999 and computers are still looked on as an "option". I really don't think that's the case any more...And my favorite quote she used in the book... by someone named Louis Untermeyer... "Write out of love, write out of instinct, write out of reason. But always for money."I like the way that guy thinks! :-)

This book is not a get rich quick method to sell your writing. For that reason, I put it back on the shelf when I read it a year ago without being impressed. Recently, however, as I found myself reading it again, I found the practical advice helpful for me now that I am truly committed to becoming a writer. The advice about committing to regular schedules for writing, as well as the family advice on managing your time while not ignoring your kids is awesome. I have been inspired to write about the things closer to home now that I am committed to my profession. I recommend this for writers who want to add quality to their craft, not necessarily immediate digits to their paycheck!

I'm happy to say that I own a copy of this most wonderful book! It offers Guidelines and Insights into what a True Freelance Writers Life could be like. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies! I do know that Procastrination is an Enemy of mine. I've forgotten how many times I've had Writers block,reading this book has helped me overcome those rough,trying times that afflict all of us writers from time to time.Enjoy!! :>)

I have been writing on my own for a while but with no purpose. I found that her book gave me purpose and direction. It put all my hopes and aspirations onto a solid path. She is very humerous and real. At the same time she manages to stick to the point and get it across. Her positive words really make you think that this could become a reality. Despite my busy life with the children I feel like this is something I can undertake. The book also gave the names of great reference books that will help me focus my writing in certain directions. Her point about writing things that pertain to your life, like raising children, marriage or being a woman opened up a world of material for me. She does a good job also on informing the reader on how to research an article or book with out getting lost in the research and never actually writing. I think that the book is very reader friendly in every aspect.

You know, Elaine Fantle Shimberg is fantastic. I picked up her book about 20 years ago, How To Be A Successful Housewife Writer, and I began to write that evening and have been doing it professionally ever since. I've written in my laundry area, on my couch, in the living room, and finally in my own home office. Elaine proves that you can write anywhere, and she wipes away those excuses we give for not being published. She's been where we are, and she lets you know that others have too. The difference between published and not published is believing enough in your work to do it every single day.