Pity the Reader

One sentence synopsis... Part memoir, part guidebook this is a page-turning compilation of stories and tips from the mind of one of the most humorous, intelligent writers in American history. .

Read it if you like... learning about the lives of great artists. Looking behind the curtain to get an idea of how much hard work actually went into producing such classics as ‘Slaughterhouse Five' and ‘Breakfast of Champions'. .

Further reading... this book is full of great behind the scene stories about the writing process behind all of Kurt's novels and short stories. The next dozen book reviews will probably be all Vonnegut.

I got very excited by the idea of a writer's guide written by dear Mr. Vonnegut. But he died in 2007 and this is no such thing; it is written by someone who lacks the late Kurt's credibilty but who apparently felt attending his workshops entitled her to claim this book as part of his canon, putting his name as lead author. If you want an actual writing guide from the master, google, “vonnegut how to write with style” for his two page essay which was used as the underpinning structure for this 400 pages of unnecessary rambling.

Pity the reader who wastes money on this book.

I've never considered myself a huge Vonnegut fan, but I have often enjoyed reading him and about him. What I like about this book “co-written” and curated by Suzanne McConnell is that it is both a glimpse into Vonnegut's life and work and, at the same time, a comprehensive book about the craft of writing. I wish I could assemble a group of writing friends to meet once a week to discuss a chapter because I think by discussing we could absorb it better. Mostly for writers, but potentially entertaining for non-writers also.