"Admirable. . . . [Russo is] wry, idiosyncratic, vulnerably bighearted, a craftsman." –
The New York Times Book Review "As much fun to read as his best-selling novels. . . . At times funny, always touching. . . . If you want to be a writer this is a must book to read." –
Albany Times Union "Witty and wise. . . . Thoughtful, funny, endearing–and surprising." –
The Portland Press Herald
"Captivating. . . . Generous-hearted. . . . Fully display[s] Russo's trademark warmth and wit. . . . Puzzles with the mysteries of what good writing is and what good living is." –
BookPage "A heartfelt exploration of [Russo's] life as a writer." –
PopSugar
"More than a few wise reflections on the craft of writing." –
Southern Living
"Masterful. . . . Wonderfully candid." –
Tulsa Book Review "A remarkable and insightful exploration into the mind of a wonderful writer." –
Book Reporter
"All-encompassing. . . . Anyone in search of an eye-opening series of essays by a distinguished writer about writing and the writing life need look no further." –
The National Book Review
"Certain to please anyone familiar with his short fiction and novels. . . . Readers seeking a deeply insightful record of the creative process and the life guiding it will find resonance here." –
Library Journal (starred review)
"[A] splendid collection. . . . These are wise, personal pieces, and readers get to know the author as a comforting, funny, and welcoming guy." –
Kirkus Reviews "Brilliant. . . . Scholarly yet accessible. . . . Russo lets his readers behind the curtain to divulge the myriad sources of his profound wisdom and boundless generosity as both writer and teacher." –
Booklist
"Dazzling and moving. . . . Reveal[s] glimpses of forces that drive a bestselling fiction writer." –
Publishers Weekly