Writers Pass Down Creative Wisdom in These 3 Books

This article contains affiliate links that may result in us earning a commission when you make a purchase through these links.

Kendra Winchester, a Contributing Editor at Book Riot, focuses on audiobooks and disability literature. She is also the Founder of Read Appalachia, which promotes Appalachian literature. Previously, Kendra co-founded and was the Executive Director of Reading Women, a popular podcast. In her free time, she writes on her Substack, Winchester Ave, and shares photos of her Corgis on Instagram and Twitter @kdwinchester.

As someone who appreciates nonfiction, I often visit Substack to see what my favorite writers are up to. I particularly enjoy when writers discuss writing, as there’s something special about creatives sharing their wisdom and encouragement. Over the past few years, some writers have compiled their newsletter content into book form, offering readers a consolidated source of advice.

One example is Jami Attenberg’s “1000 Words: A Writer’s Guide to Staying Creative, Focused, and Productive All-Year Round.” Attenberg’s writing project #1000WordsOfSummer, where participants write 1,000 words daily, has garnered a large following. The book version includes insights and advice from writers like Roxane Gay and Celeste Ng.

Another book, “The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life” by Suleika Jaouad, stems from her 100-day journaling project following a leukemia diagnosis at 22. The book features prompts from writers such as Salman Rushdie to inspire readers in their own writing challenges.

“Maggie Smith’s “Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life” draws from her substack, For Dear Life, to offer guidance on creativity. The book delves into key elements of creativity and provides writing prompts based on Smith’s two decades of experience.

For more book-related content, you can find me on my substack Winchester Ave or on Instagram @kdwinchester. Feel free to reach out to me at kendra.d.winchester@gmail.com for any inquiries.