In this guide, the author offers step-by-step instructions to create one full week of writing prep. Each day focuses on a different aspect of story formation: ideas, character, setting, plot and planning, drafting, and revision. Day Six is devoted to rest, as a break provides “energy and perspective and helps unlock creative possibilities.” For all other days, the exercises are broken up into warmups, core activities, and stretches. The reader is able to pick and choose which exercises are most applicable to their writing journey. The author begins each section with a cheerful, inspiring opening, then leaves space for the reader to “take action to create something.” She leads her audience through reflective activities, creative pursuits, and adventures that take readers from their habitual writing place to the greater world around them, exploring libraries, walking paths, and other locations. She engages the five senses as well, proposing activities that involve physical activity, music, and artwork. She also discusses the revision process, how to take feedback, and ultimately, how to expand the seven-day workshop into actionable steps.

The author’s decades-long experience leading writing groups and workshops is evident in her thoughtful planning. The activities are engaging and well-organized. Clearly, she has dedicated both time and love toward her craft. She enthusiastically shares her writing hacks with her readers and offers continual encouragement interspersed with her challenges. Her exercises provide meticulous guidance and examples if needed but are also customizable to each person’s unique writing style. They provide innovative techniques to help even the most established author shake up their routine. Writers at any stage, from newcomers crafting their first words to veteran authors struggling with writer’s block, will be motivated and inspired by this guide.

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