Booklife: Strategies and Survival Tips for the 21st Century Writerby Jeff VanderMeer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unlike so many books about writing, this one is primarily about *how* to be a writer. Everyone knows that a writer writes, but what does a published author do once the book comes out? How do you ask other writers for help? How do you maintain an online presence without pissing people off — or being so frightened of pissing people off that you mute yourself? How do you deal with envy of other writers’ triumphs? How do you deal with failure — or success?

I found so much food for thought here that I was only able to read the book in small chunks, pausing in between to absorb and consider what I’d read and how it applied to my “booklife.” One thing I wish he’d spent more time is the period six months after a book comes out. I mean, I understand the flurry of events and interviews after the initial publication, but what does a writer do after that first storm has passed? How long is it okay to send out review copies? How do you keep your book in print?

Still, there was so much material here that I expect I will need to read it again when my next book comes out. These are lessons that might need to be studied over and again. I’m glad to have them all in one place.

I really do recommend you get a copy for yourself, if you’re serious about writing and publishing.