Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within

by Natalie Goldberg
Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Education and Reference
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Waterstones
Paperback • £17.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3307
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781590302613
  • Publisher: Shambhala Publications
  • Published: 2005-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Writing Down the Bones is a guide that emphasizes the importance of discipline and regular practice in creative writing. The book offers a wealth of advice and exercises to help writers of all levels overcome self-doubt and find their unique voice. It encourages a playful and non-judgmental approach to writing, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore their creativity. Author Natalie Goldberg shares her insights on the writing process, drawing from her own experiences and those of other writers. The book is filled with practical tips on how to start writing, how to keep going, and how to make your writing more vivid and engaging. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to write more freely and authentically.

Reviews
Too Much To Write · 2025-08-08
insightful 4.50

Goldberg's conversational and relatable style makes her insights accessible and valuable. The book is praised for its ability to unlock creativity and provide practical advice.

The reviewer appreciates Natalie Goldberg's conversational and unpretentious writing style, which makes her insights feel accessible and relatable. They highlight how the book effectively unlocks creativity and provides practical advice for writers. The reviewer finds Goldberg's personal experiences and anecdotes particularly engaging and useful, making the book a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their writing.

Quick quotes

    Goldberg's writing style is conversational and unpretentious, which makes her insights feel accessible and relatable.

    She shares her experiences and anecdotes in a way that feels like a chat with a wise friend.

    This book is a treasure trove of practical advice and creative inspiration.

Jessica Davidson · Jessica Davidson · 2019-01-12
encouraging 4.00

The book is lauded for its encouragement to experiment and write truthfully, with a focus on using details effectively. It's seen as a valuable guide for writers at any stage.

Jessica Davidson highlights how Natalie Goldberg's book encourages writers to experiment and find their own voice. She appreciates the emphasis on truth-telling and the use of details, though she notes the importance of not overloading the writing with too many. Davidson finds the book to be a valuable resource for both novice and experienced writers, offering practical advice and inspiration.

Quick quotes

    She encourages you to experiment and try different techniques, but mainly to just write.

    To tell the truth and use details, but not too many.

    It's a book that feels like a companion, guiding you through the ups and downs of the writing process.

Medium - Amateur Book Reviews · 2017-06-25
inspiring 4.50

This book is a favorite for understanding the craft of writing, praised for its insightful and practical approach. It encourages writers to embrace their unique voice and process.

The reviewer holds this book in high regard, calling it one of their all-time favorites on the craft of writing. They appreciate its hands-on approach and the way it validates the struggles and joys of writing. The book is seen as a must-read for anyone serious about writing, offering practical advice and a supportive perspective that resonates deeply with writers.

Quick quotes

    This is hands down one of my all time FAVORITE books on the craft of writing.

    It's not just about writing; it's about living and experiencing life fully to fuel your writing.

    Goldberg's advice is practical, yet it feels like a warm conversation with a mentor.

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