No matter what genre of creative writing you choose to explore, this book offers precisely the encouragement and wisdom you need to transform your best intentions into a polished piece of work.

Author and writing instructor Barbara Abercrombie is upfront and clear about the purpose of her book in the introduction's first line saying, 'Here is my goal for you with this book: by the time you finish it you'll have written a crafted story about your life, either a short piece or the opening chapter of a book.' With this promise in mind, she helps the writer make peace with the often-sloppy first draft stage by offering helpful exercises and nuts-and-bolts ways to shape and edit the rough work and turn it into a manuscript others will want to read and agents will be eager to sell.

In a friendly tone of voice, Abercrombie helps writers determine the most effective style for specific story ideas. She describes how to keep a journal, craft a personal essay, and write memoirs, poetry, and fiction. With an overview of each genre, exercises that will keep the inner critic silent, and invaluable inspiration from writers who have been there, Courage & Craft is the well-written book you'll refer back to throughout your writing career.