The Joy of Writing

It wasn't until I saw Pierre Berton's book about the writing life in the library that I even knew that he wrote a book about his craft. Pierre Berton was a prolific writer; he wrote 50 books during his lifetime, and gained the reputation of being Canada's "best-known writer." His books on Canadian history such as Klondike, The Last Spike and The National Dream, recounts Canada's exciting history. As a storyteller and researcher, Berton's perspective is full of people.

The Joy of Writing: A Guide for Writers, Disguised as a Memoir is an entertaining, witty, and beneficial guide for any writer who wants some inspiration. Berton shares what he has learned through his many years of writing, and talks about other writer's experiences on their journeys.

Throughout the book, the "30 Rules for Up-and-Coming Writers," spells out what Berton has learned. Rule #4 is "Read! Read! Read! Write! Write! Write! Rewrite! Rewrite! Rewrite!" Rule #11: Read some good stuff before you begin. The advice is down-to-earth to keep you on track.

From writing to editing to publishing, Berton gives humourous advice for writers. Berton's response to people who want to know the secret to publishing is, "There is no quick or easy road to writing any more than there is a quick or easy road to brain surgery."